Auburn's Resilient NIT Championship Run

A story of teamwork, coaching redemption, and the lasting impact of one player's decision to quit

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:20am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in navy blue, burnt orange, and white, capturing the dynamic energy and movement of an Auburn basketball game or celebration.Auburn's NIT championship victory showcases the team's resilience and the power of collective effort in overcoming adversity.Auburn Today

Auburn's unexpected run to the NIT championship showcased the team's resilience and adaptability after the departure of star player KeShawn Murphy. Under new coach Steven Pearl, the team rallied together to secure an impressive five-game winning streak, culminating in an overtime victory against Tulsa. This triumph not only restored faith in the coaching staff but also highlighted the power of collective effort in overcoming adversity.

Why it matters

Auburn's NIT championship run is more than just a sports story - it's a narrative about the transformative power of teamwork, the importance of coaching leadership, and the lasting impact that individual decisions can have on a team's trajectory. The team's ability to come together and succeed in the face of skepticism and personal challenges serves as an inspiring example of the beauty of college basketball.

The details

After KeShawn Murphy, a key player, decided to quit the team rather than honor his NIL deal and play in the NIT, Auburn's roster was left with a void. However, players like Tahaad Pettiford, Elyjah Freeman, Kevin Overton, Sebastian Williams-Adams, and Blake Muschalek stepped up, showcasing their resilience and playing for each other. Under the guidance of new coach Steven Pearl, who faced doubts and criticism throughout the season, the team rapidly developed and adapted, securing an impressive five-game winning streak that culminated in an overtime victory against Tulsa in the NIT championship.

  • Auburn secured the NIT championship on April 5, 2026.
  • KeShawn Murphy quit the team in the weeks leading up to the NIT tournament.

The players

KeShawn Murphy

A former Auburn player whose decision to quit the team rather than honor his NIL deal and play in the NIT tournament became a catalyst for the team's unexpected success.

Steven Pearl

The new Auburn head coach who faced skepticism and criticism throughout the season but led the team to an impressive NIT championship victory, demonstrating his coaching prowess.

Bruce Pearl

The former Auburn head coach who retired suddenly, leading to his son, Steven Pearl, taking over the program and facing accusations of nepotism.

Tahaad Pettiford

An Auburn player who stepped up and played a key role in the team's NIT championship run.

Elyjah Freeman

An Auburn player who contributed to the team's success in the NIT tournament.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The decision to participate in the NIT could have backfired, but instead, it became a testament to my coaching abilities.”

— Steven Pearl, Auburn Head Coach

“KeShawn's decision to quit the team has left a lasting impression. His absence became a catalyst for our success, and the championship win serves as a powerful statement.”

— Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn Player

What’s next

The Auburn basketball program will look to build on their NIT championship success and aim for a spot in the NCAA Tournament next season.

The takeaway

Auburn's NIT championship run is a testament to the power of teamwork, coaching leadership, and the ability to overcome adversity. The team's resilience and collective effort in the face of personal challenges and external doubts serve as an inspiring example of the true spirit of college basketball.