What's Happening?
The Tulsa Golden Hurricane secured a 77-66 victory over the UNLV Rebels in the second round of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) on March 22, 2026. The game, held in Tulsa, Oklahoma, saw Miles Barnstable lead the team with 16 points. Tulsa established
a strong lead early in the game, ending the first half with a 36-24 advantage. The team further extended their lead in the second half, with a significant 9-0 run that pushed their lead to 63-47. Ade Popoola contributed 16 points, while Romad Dean added 11 points to the team's total. UNLV's Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn scored 29 points, but it was not enough to overcome Tulsa's dominance. Tulsa will face the winner of the Wichita State and Oklahoma State matchup in the quarterfinals.
Why It's Important?
Tulsa's victory in the NIT is significant as it highlights the team's strong performance this season, with a record of 28-7. Advancing to the quarterfinals provides the team with an opportunity to further showcase their skills and potentially secure a spot in the semifinals. This success can boost the team's morale and increase their visibility in college basketball. For the players, particularly those like Miles Barnstable and Ade Popoola, strong performances in the NIT can enhance their prospects for future opportunities, whether in professional leagues or other competitive platforms. The game also draws attention to the competitive nature of college basketball, where teams outside the NCAA tournament can still achieve recognition and success.
What's Next?
Tulsa will prepare to face either Wichita State or Oklahoma State in the NIT quarterfinals. The outcome of this upcoming game will determine Tulsa's path forward in the tournament. A victory in the quarterfinals would advance them to the semifinals, bringing them closer to a potential NIT championship. The team will likely focus on maintaining their strong defensive strategies and capitalizing on scoring opportunities, as demonstrated in their recent win. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Tulsa can continue their successful run in the tournament.
