Auburn Tigers Claim NIT Championship After Tumultuous Season

The team overcame a year of ups and downs to capture the postseason title.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 5:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Auburn Tigers men's basketball team capped off a rollercoaster 2025-26 season by winning the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship, defeating Tulsa in the final game played in Indianapolis on April 5th. The Tigers' season was marked by both high points and low points, but they were able to rally and claim the NIT title in the end.

Why it matters

Auburn's NIT championship is a testament to the resilience of the team and coaching staff, who were able to navigate a challenging season and ultimately deliver a postseason title for the program. The win provides a positive ending to what was otherwise a tumultuous year for the Tigers.

The details

The Tigers' NIT championship game against Tulsa was described by head coach Bruce Pearl as "a microcosm of our season" - filled with both highs and lows. Auburn overcame early deficits and a back-and-forth contest to ultimately defeat Tulsa and claim the NIT title.

  • The NIT championship game took place on April 5, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
  • Auburn's 2025-26 season was marked by both highlights and low points throughout the year.

The players

Bruce Pearl

The head coach of the Auburn Tigers men's basketball team, who guided the team to the NIT championship.

Auburn Tigers

The men's basketball team from Auburn University that won the 2026 NIT championship.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This game was kind of a microcosm of our season”

— Bruce Pearl, Head Coach, Auburn Tigers

The takeaway

Auburn's NIT championship victory provides a positive end to what was otherwise a tumultuous season for the Tigers, showcasing the team's resilience and the coaching staff's ability to guide the program through adversity.