The 2024 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) is set to take place from March 19th to March 31st, 2024, bringing together some of the best college basketball teams in the country. The NIT provides a second chance for teams that didn’t make the NCAA Tournament to showcase their skills and compete for a national championship.

As the NIT approaches, excitement builds among college basketball fans who eagerly await the thrilling games and unexpected upsets that the tournament is known for. With a wide range of teams from different conferences and regions participating, the NIT offers a diverse and unpredictable tournament experience.

The 2024 NIT promises to be an exciting and memorable event, with teams battling it out for the coveted championship trophy. As the tournament progresses, Cinderella stories, record-breaking performances, and last-minute finishes are sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

2024 National Invitation Tournament

Excitement, upsets, Cinderella stories.

• 64-team single-elimination bracket
• Second chance for NCAA Tournament hopefuls
• Diverse field from various conferences
• Games played across the United States
• Quarterfinals and semifinals at Madison Square Garden
• Championship game at Madison Square Garden
• $1 million prize for the winning team
• Automatic NIT berth for some conference tournament champions
• Selection Show on March 12th, 2024

The NIT offers a unique opportunity for teams to extend their season and showcase their talent on a national stage.

64-team single-elimination bracket

The 2024 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) features a 64-team single-elimination bracket, providing a thrilling and unpredictable tournament experience. The field includes a diverse range of teams from various conferences across the country, ensuring a wide array of matchups and exciting storylines.

Teams are seeded based on their regular season records, conference tournament results, and other factors. The top seeds receive a bye in the first round, while the remaining teams compete in opening-round games to advance to the second round. From there, the tournament progresses through the Sweet 16, Elite Eight, semifinals, and championship game, with each round featuring single-elimination matchups.

The single-elimination format of the NIT creates a sense of urgency and excitement, as teams must win each game to advance. This format also allows for Cinderella stories and unexpected upsets, as lower-seeded teams have the opportunity to defeat higher-seeded teams and make a deep run in the tournament.

The NIT culminates with the championship game, which is held at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The championship game is a highly anticipated event, drawing a large crowd of fans and generating significant media attention. The winning team receives the NIT championship trophy and a $1 million prize.

The 64-team single-elimination bracket of the NIT provides a thrilling and unpredictable tournament experience, with exciting matchups, Cinderella stories, and the chance for teams to showcase their talent on a national stage.

Second chance for NCAA Tournament hopefuls

The NIT provides a second chance for teams that didn’t receive an invitation to the NCAA Tournament, giving them an opportunity to extend their season, showcase their talent, and compete for a national championship.

• Automatic NIT berths:

  Some conference tournament champions that do not receive an NCAA Tournament bid automatically earn a berth in the NIT. This gives teams from smaller conferences or those that had an unexpected conference tournament run a chance to participate in the postseason.

• At-large bids:

  The NIT Selection Committee also awards at-large bids to teams that have strong regular season records or impressive performances in their conference tournaments. These at-large bids allow deserving teams that didn’t win their conference tournament to still participate in the NIT.

• Opportunity to build momentum:

  The NIT can serve as a springboard for teams looking to make a run in the NCAA Tournament the following year. Teams that perform well in the NIT can gain valuable experience and momentum, which can carry over to the next season and help them secure an NCAA Tournament berth.

• Showcase for NBA scouts:

  The NIT provides a platform for players to showcase their skills in front of NBA scouts and executives. Many players who go undrafted in the NBA Draft have used the NIT as an opportunity to impress scouts and earn a professional contract.

The NIT offers a second chance for NCAA Tournament hopefuls to achieve their postseason goals, gain valuable experience, and showcase their talent on a national stage.

Diverse field from various conferences

The NIT features a diverse field of teams from various conferences across the country, ensuring a wide range of matchups and exciting storylines.

• Power conferences:

  Teams from major conferences such as the ACC, Big Ten, and SEC regularly participate in the NIT. These teams bring a high level of talent and experience to the tournament, making them contenders for the championship.

• Mid-major conferences:

  Mid-major conferences, such as the Atlantic 10, Mountain West, and West Coast Conference, are also well-represented in the NIT. These teams often have strong regular seasons and can make deep runs in the tournament, challenging the power conference teams.

• Small conferences:

  The NIT also provides an opportunity for teams from smaller conferences to compete on a national stage. These teams may not receive as much attention as the power conference teams, but they can surprise opponents with their talent and determination.

• International teams:

  In some years, the NIT has also invited international teams to participate. This adds an extra layer of excitement and diversity to the tournament, as fans get to see teams from different countries compete against each other.

The diverse field of teams from various conferences makes the NIT an unpredictable and entertaining tournament, with something for every college basketball fan to enjoy.

Games played across the United States

One of the unique aspects of the NIT is that games are played across the United States, providing fans from all over the country an opportunity to see their favorite teams compete in person.

The opening round and first two rounds of the NIT are typically played at campus sites, giving fans a chance to cheer on their teams in their home arenas. This creates a lively and electric atmosphere, as fans pack the stands to support their teams and witness exciting college basketball action.

The later rounds of the NIT, including the quarterfinals, semifinals, and championship game, are held at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Madison Square Garden is a historic and iconic venue that has hosted countless memorable sporting events, including NIT games. The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden during the NIT is electric, with fans from all over the country coming together to witness the best that college basketball has to offer.

Playing games across the United States allows the NIT to reach a wide audience and showcase the talent and excitement of college basketball to fans from all walks of life. It also gives teams from different regions of the country a chance to compete against each other and prove their worth on a national stage.

The NIT’s nationwide footprint makes it a truly unique and special tournament that brings together college basketball fans from all over the country to celebrate the sport they love.

Quarterfinals and semifinals at Madison Square Garden

The quarterfinals and semifinals of the NIT are held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, one of the most iconic sports venues in the world. This adds an extra layer of excitement and prestige to the tournament, as teams compete in the “World’s Most Famous Arena” for a chance to reach the championship game.

Madison Square Garden has a long and storied history with the NIT, hosting the tournament’s championship game every year from 1938 to 2022. The arena’s rich basketball tradition and electric atmosphere make it the perfect setting for the NIT’s final four teams to battle it out for a spot in the championship game.

The quarterfinals and semifinals at Madison Square Garden are typically played on consecutive nights, creating a thrilling and intense atmosphere. Fans from all over the country flock to New York City to witness some of the best college basketball action of the season, as teams vie for a chance to play for the NIT championship.

Playing in Madison Square Garden is a special experience for the players and coaches involved. The arena’s unique atmosphere and rich history add an extra layer of pressure and excitement to the games, making them truly unforgettable experiences for all involved.

The quarterfinals and semifinals at Madison Square Garden are a highlight of the NIT and a must-see event for any college basketball fan.

Championship game at Madison Square Garden

The championship game of the NIT is held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, providing a fitting conclusion to the tournament and crowning a national champion.

• Historic venue:

  Madison Square Garden is a historic and iconic sports venue that has hosted countless memorable sporting events, including the NIT championship game for many years. The arena’s rich history and electric atmosphere make it the perfect setting for the NIT’s championship game.

• National championship atmosphere:

  The NIT championship game at Madison Square Garden has a true national championship atmosphere. The arena is packed with fans from all over the country, creating an electric and unforgettable experience for the players and coaches involved.

• Cinderella stories:

  The NIT championship game has often been the stage for Cinderella stories, as lower-seeded teams have made unexpected runs to the final game. These Cinderella stories add an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the tournament and make the championship game even more compelling.

• Prestigious trophy:

  The winner of the NIT championship game receives the NIT championship trophy, a prestigious award that symbolizes the team’s success and achievement. The trophy is a reminder of the team’s hard work and dedication throughout the season and a source of pride for the players, coaches, and fans.

The championship game at Madison Square Garden is a fitting conclusion to the NIT, providing a grand stage for the tournament’s two best teams to compete for the championship and etch their names in the history books.

$1 million prize for the winning team

The winning team of the 2024 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) will receive a $1 million prize, a significant financial reward for their success and achievement.

The $1 million prize is a testament to the growing prestige and importance of the NIT. In recent years, the NIT has become a more competitive and respected tournament, attracting some of the best college basketball teams in the country. The $1 million prize reflects this increased prestige and recognizes the value of the NIT as a premier postseason college basketball tournament.

For the winning team, the $1 million prize can have a significant impact on their athletic department and overall financial stability. The money can be used to fund scholarships, improve facilities, and support other athletic programs. It can also be used to reward the players and coaches for their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

The $1 million prize adds an extra layer of excitement and motivation for teams competing in the NIT. Knowing that there is a substantial financial reward at the end of the tournament can inspire teams to play their best and compete at the highest level. It also makes the NIT a more attractive tournament for fans, as they know that the teams involved are playing for something significant.

The $1 million prize for the winning team is a major factor in the growing popularity and success of the NIT, and it is a testament to the tournament’s status as a premier postseason college basketball event.

Automatic NIT berth for some conference tournament champions

Some conference tournament champions that do not receive an NCAA Tournament bid automatically earn a berth in the NIT. This provides a safety net for teams that have a strong regular season and conference tournament performance but fall short of an NCAA Tournament berth.

The number of automatic NIT berths varies from year to year, but typically around 20 conferences receive automatic bids. These conferences are typically smaller conferences or mid-major conferences that do not have a guaranteed NCAA Tournament berth. However, some larger conferences, such as the Atlantic 10 Conference and the Mountain West Conference, also have automatic NIT berths.

Automatic NIT berths are awarded to the conference tournament champion, regardless of their regular season record. This gives all teams in a conference a chance to earn a berth in the NIT, regardless of their seeding or overall record. This can lead to Cinderella stories, as lower-seeded teams can win their conference tournament and earn an automatic NIT berth, even if they had a mediocre regular season.

Automatic NIT berths are a valuable commodity for conferences and teams. They provide a second chance for teams to reach the postseason and showcase their talent on a national stage. They also help to ensure that the NIT field is filled with competitive and deserving teams.

The automatic NIT berths for conference tournament champions are an important part of the tournament and help to make it a more diverse and exciting event.

Selection Show on March 12th, 2024

The Selection Show for the 2024 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) will take place on March 12th, 2024. This is when the 64 teams that have been selected to participate in the tournament will be announced.

The Selection Show is a highly anticipated event for college basketball fans, as it marks the official start of the NIT and provides the first glimpse at the tournament bracket. The show is typically broadcast live on ESPN or CBS, and it features analysis and commentary from college basketball experts.

During the Selection Show, the NIT Selection Committee reveals the 64 teams that have been selected to participate in the tournament. The teams are seeded based on their regular season records, conference tournament results, and other factors. The top seeds receive a bye in the first round, while the remaining teams compete in opening-round games to advance to the second round.

The Selection Show is also when the NIT bracket is unveiled. The bracket shows the matchups for each round of the tournament, as well as the dates and times of the games. Fans can use the bracket to plan their viewing schedule and follow their favorite teams throughout the tournament.

The Selection Show is a thrilling event that marks the beginning of the NIT and provides college basketball fans with a glimpse at the exciting matchups and Cinderella stories that await them in the tournament.

FAQ

Have questions about the 2024 National Invitation Tournament (NIT)? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Question 1: When is the 2024 NIT?
Answer 1: The 2024 NIT will take place from March 19th to March 31st, 2024.

Question 2: How many teams participate in the NIT?
Answer 2: A total of 64 teams participate in the NIT.

Question 3: How are teams selected for the NIT?
Answer 3: Teams are selected for the NIT based on their regular season records, conference tournament results, and other factors. Some conference tournament champions that do not receive an NCAA Tournament bid automatically earn a berth in the NIT. The NIT Selection Committee also awards at-large bids to deserving teams that did not win their conference tournament.

Question 4: Where are the NIT games played?
Answer 4: NIT games are played across the United States. The opening round and first two rounds are typically played at campus sites, while the later rounds, including the quarterfinals, semifinals, and championship game, are held at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Question 5: What is the prize for winning the NIT?
Answer 5: The winning team of the NIT receives a $1 million prize.

Question 6: How can I watch the NIT?
Answer 6: NIT games are typically broadcast on ESPN, CBS, and other major sports networks. You can also stream NIT games online through services such as ESPN+, CBS Sports, and NCAA March Madness Live.

Question 7: Who are some of the notable players who have participated in the NIT?
Answer 7: Some notable players who have participated in the NIT include Stephon Curry, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Zion Williamson.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ: Hopefully, these answers have helped to address some of your questions about the 2024 NIT. For more information, please visit the official NIT website or follow the NIT on social media.

Looking for additional tips on following the NIT? Check out our comprehensive guide to the 2024 NIT, where we provide in-depth analysis, predictions, and more.

Tips

Here are a few practical tips to enhance your experience of the 2024 National Invitation Tournament (NIT):

Tip 1: Follow the NIT Selection Show:
Tune in to the NIT Selection Show on March 12th, 2024 to find out which teams have been selected to participate in the tournament. This is an exciting event that marks the official start of the NIT.

Tip 2: Study the NIT bracket:
Once the NIT bracket is released, take some time to study it carefully. Pay attention to the matchups, dates, and times of the games. This will help you plan your viewing schedule and follow your favorite teams throughout the tournament.

Tip 3: Check out the NIT website and social media:
The official NIT website and social media pages are great resources for staying up-to-date on the latest news, scores, and highlights from the tournament. You can also find information about tickets, merchandise, and other NIT-related events.

Tip 4: Attend an NIT game in person:
If you have the opportunity, attending an NIT game in person is an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere at NIT games is electric, and you’ll have the chance to witness some of the best college basketball players in the country competing at a high level.

Closing Paragraph for Tips: By following these tips, you can make the most of your 2024 NIT experience. Whether you’re watching the games on TV, streaming them online, or attending them in person, the NIT is sure to provide plenty of exciting moments and memorable storylines.

As the 2024 NIT approaches, college basketball fans around the country are eagerly anticipating the thrilling games and Cinderella stories that the tournament is known for. With a diverse field of teams and a single-elimination format, the NIT promises to deliver non-stop excitement from the opening round to the championship game.

Conclusion

The 2024 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) promises to be an exciting and memorable event, providing college basketball fans with a second chance to witness the best that the sport has to offer. With a diverse field of teams, a single-elimination format, and a $1 million prize for the winning team, the NIT has all the ingredients for a thrilling tournament.

The NIT provides a platform for teams to showcase their talent and compete for a national championship. It also offers Cinderella stories, unexpected upsets, and last-minute finishes that keep fans on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a fan of a major conference team or a smaller school, the NIT has something for everyone.

As the tournament approaches, college basketball fans around the country are eagerly anticipating the exciting matchups and storylines that the NIT is sure to deliver. With games played across the United States and the championship game held at Madison Square Garden, the NIT is a truly national event that brings together fans from all walks of life.

So mark your calendars for March 19th to March 31st, 2024, and get ready for the 2024 NIT. The tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans and players alike, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impact on the world of college basketball.