Auburn Basketball Dominates Illinois State, Advances to NIT Final

Tigers one win away from first-ever NIT championship

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:40am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an Auburn basketball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of orange, blue, and white representing the dynamic action on the court.Auburn's relentless defense and fast-paced offense propelled the Tigers to the NIT championship game.Auburn Today

The Auburn Tigers basketball team dominated Illinois State 88-66 in the NIT semifinals, shooting over 60% from the field and beyond the arc. Kevin Overton scored 16 points while going a perfect 4-4 from 3-point range, and Keyshawn Hall led all scorers with 24 points. Auburn's defense forced 15 turnovers and held Illinois State to just 30% shooting in the second half to pull away for the convincing victory.

Why it matters

Auburn's run to the NIT championship game marks a significant milestone for the program, as they seek their first-ever postseason tournament title. The Tigers' offensive efficiency and stifling defense against Illinois State showcased their potential to capture the NIT crown.

The details

Auburn and Illinois State combined for 13 3-pointers in a high-scoring first half, but the Tigers pulled away in the second half by forcing 15 turnovers and limiting the Redbirds to just 30% shooting. Auburn scored 22 points off turnovers and 20 points in transition, while also dominating the paint with 4 blocks. Keyshawn Hall led all scorers with 24 points, and Kevin Overton shot a perfect 4-4 from 3-point range to finish with 16 points.

  • The game was played on Thursday, April 3, 2026 inside Hinkle Fieldhouse.
  • Auburn will play Tulsa in the NIT championship game on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

The players

Keyshawn Hall

Auburn's leading scorer with 24 points, adding 4 rebounds and 2 assists.

Kevin Overton

Auburn guard who shot a perfect 4-4 from 3-point range, finishing with 16 points.

Tahaad Pettiford

Auburn forward who contributed 12 points, 4 assists and 2 blocks.

Chase Walker

Illinois State's leading scorer, held to just 10 points by Auburn's defense.

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What they’re saying

“Our defense really set the tone tonight and allowed us to get out in transition. When we're playing that kind of defense, it fuels our offense.”

— Bruce Pearl, Auburn Head Coach

What’s next

Auburn will face Tulsa in the NIT championship game on Sunday, April 5, 2026, with tip-off scheduled for 6:00 PM CT.

The takeaway

Auburn's dominant performance in the NIT semifinals showcases the team's potential to capture its first-ever postseason tournament title. The Tigers' stifling defense and efficient offense proved too much for Illinois State, setting the stage for a chance at NIT glory.