Auburn Dominates Illinois State, Advances to NIT Final

Tigers' Keyshawn Hall scores 24 points in blowout win, will face Tulsa for championship

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:34am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a basketball game, with players' forms dissolved into vibrant, gestural shapes.Auburn's high-octane offense overwhelms Illinois State, setting up an exciting NIT championship showdown.Indianapolis Today

The overall No. 1 seed Auburn Tigers cruised to an 88-66 victory over Illinois State in the second NIT semifinal on Thursday night in Indianapolis. Led by Keyshawn Hall's 24-point performance, Auburn's sharp-shooting attack overwhelmed the Redbirds and secured a spot in the NIT championship game against Tulsa.

Why it matters

Auburn's dominant win sets up an intriguing NIT final matchup between two of the tournament's top teams. The Tigers, who were snubbed from the NCAA Tournament, are looking to cap off their season with a championship, while Tulsa will aim to pull off the upset and claim the NIT title.

The details

Auburn jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, leading by as many as 22 points in the second half. Keyshawn Hall was the catalyst for the Tigers, scoring 24 points on efficient 9-of-14 shooting. The sharp-shooting Tigers as a team connected on 53% of their field goal attempts, including 11 made 3-pointers.

  • The game was played on Thursday, April 3, 2026 in Indianapolis.
  • Auburn and Tulsa will face off in the NIT championship game on Saturday, April 5, 2026.

The players

Keyshawn Hall

A standout junior guard for the Auburn Tigers who led the team with 24 points in the NIT semifinal victory.

Auburn Tigers

The overall No. 1 seed in the NIT tournament, who dominated Illinois State to advance to the championship game.

Illinois State Redbirds

The opponent that was defeated by Auburn in the NIT semifinal, ending their tournament run.

Tulsa

Auburn's opponent in the upcoming NIT championship game, looking to pull off the upset.

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What they’re saying

“We came out focused and ready to play our game. Keyshawn was unstoppable tonight, and the whole team fed off his energy.”

— Bruce Pearl, Auburn Head Coach

What’s next

Auburn and Tulsa will face off in the NIT championship game on Saturday, April 5, 2026 in Indianapolis.

The takeaway

Auburn's dominant performance in the NIT semifinals sets up an intriguing championship matchup against Tulsa. The Tigers, who were snubbed from the NCAA Tournament, have a chance to cap off their season with a title, while Tulsa will look to pull off the upset.