UNM Lobos Advance to NIT Semifinals

Team-by-team capsules for the four NIT semifinal teams, including the University of New Mexico Lobos.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:01pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the action of a college basketball game, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the competing teams' vibrant colors.The four NIT semifinal teams will battle it out on the court in a high-stakes tournament to determine the 2026 champion.Indianapolis Today

The University of New Mexico Lobos have advanced to the semifinals of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) in Indianapolis. They will be joined by three other teams competing for the NIT championship this week.

Why it matters

The NIT is a prestigious postseason tournament for college basketball teams that did not qualify for the NCAA Tournament. Reaching the semifinals is a significant achievement for the Lobos, who are looking to cap off their season with a tournament title.

The details

The Lobos earned their spot in the NIT semifinals by defeating higher-seeded opponents in the earlier rounds. They will face off against three other teams - the University of Miami Hurricanes, the University of Toledo Rockets, and the University of North Texas Mean Green - in the semifinals, with the winners advancing to the championship game.

  • The NIT semifinals will take place on April 1, 2026 in Indianapolis.
  • The NIT championship game will be played on April 3, 2026.

The players

University of New Mexico Lobos

The University of New Mexico's men's basketball team, who earned a spot in the NIT semifinals after a successful regular season campaign.

University of Miami Hurricanes

The University of Miami's men's basketball team, who are also competing in the NIT semifinals.

University of Toledo Rockets

The University of Toledo's men's basketball team, who are also competing in the NIT semifinals.

University of North Texas Mean Green

The University of North Texas' men's basketball team, who are also competing in the NIT semifinals.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to be here and have the opportunity to compete for an NIT championship. Our team has worked hard all season and we're ready to give it our all.”

— Richard Pitino, Head Coach, University of New Mexico Lobos

“The NIT is a great chance for us to showcase our talent and end the season on a high note. We're looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

— Jordan Miller, Senior Guard, University of Miami Hurricanes

What’s next

The winners of the NIT semifinals on April 1 will advance to the championship game on April 3 in Indianapolis.

The takeaway

The NIT provides an opportunity for talented college basketball teams that did not make the NCAA Tournament to compete for a postseason title. Reaching the semifinals is an impressive accomplishment for the UNM Lobos and the other three teams, who will look to cap off their seasons with an NIT championship.