New Mexico Lobos Defeat Tulsa Golden Hurricane in NIT Semifinals

Lobos advance to NIT championship game as 3-point favorites over Tulsa

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:34pm

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The New Mexico Lobos (26-10) defeated the Tulsa Golden Hurricane (29-7) by a score of 84-69 in the NIT Semifinals at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Lobos opened as 3-point favorites and will now advance to the NIT championship game.

Why it matters

This victory puts the Lobos one win away from an NIT championship, capping off a strong season for the team. For Tulsa, the loss ends their tournament run after an impressive 29-7 campaign.

The details

In the win, the Lobos were led by Tomislav Buljan, who scored 27 points on 12-of-18 shooting and grabbed 11 rebounds. New Mexico shot 47.5% from the field and 30% from 3-point range, while holding Tulsa to just 38.5% shooting overall. The Golden Hurricane struggled from deep, making only 2-of-19 (10.5%) from beyond the arc.

  • The game took place on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
  • New Mexico defeated Saint Joseph's 84-69 in their previous game to advance to the NIT Semifinals.

The players

Tomislav Buljan

The Lobos' leading scorer, pouring in 27 points on 12-of-18 shooting with 11 rebounds.

Miles Barnstable

Tulsa's top performer, scoring 24 points but unable to record an assist in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“We knew Tulsa would be a tough opponent, but our guys came out focused and executed our game plan to perfection.”

— Richard Pitino, Head Coach, New Mexico Lobos

What’s next

The Lobos will now advance to the NIT championship game on Saturday, April 4th.

The takeaway

New Mexico's balanced attack and stifling defense proved too much for Tulsa, as the Lobos punched their ticket to the NIT title game with an impressive victory.