Auburn men’s basketball isn’t going dancing for the first time since 2021, but the season isn’t over yet.
The Tigers have accepted a bid to play in the 2026 National Invitation Tournament for the first time since 2009.
One year ago, Auburn was in the midst of a historic season, hearing its name called as the No. 1 overall seed in March Madness. However, this year Selection Sunday had a different feel on the Plains, as Steven Pearl’s squad missed out on the NCAA Tournament and will subsequently be the No. 1 overall seed in the NIT.
Round one for the Tigers will feature a matchup with in-state foe South Alabama at Neville Arena. If Auburn takes down the Jaguars they will face the winner of Seattle and St. Thomas.
Auburn Forward KeShawn Murphy (3) yells after scoring the final points of the game against Mississippi State in Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, Mar. 11, 2026.
Last season the orange and blue’s road ended at the Final Four. While Auburn might not have the chance to go to the real deal, they can still make it to Indianapolis.
The NIT semifinals and championship game will take place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home of the Indiana Pacers. The championship game is set for April 5.
The Tigers were among the first four out this evening when the NCAA Tournament bracket was released. Texas, NC State, Miami (OH) and SMU earned the final bids over Auburn.
Other notable teams in the NIT field include Wake Forest, California, New Mexico, Yale and Dayton.
Elyjah Freeman (6) shoots a free throw against Wofford in Neville Arena on Nov. 11, 2025.
General admission tickets are now available for $25 and are free for students.
The road to the NIT Final Four runs through the Plains and it will tip off at 9 p.m. CST Tuesday.
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Rory is a sophomore majoring in journalism sports production. He started with The Plainsman in the spring of 2025.
You can follow him on X (Twitter) at @RorymGarvin
