Often times, the National Invitational Tournament offers up-and-coming teams a chance to end the season on a high note — or at least an opportunity to practice and play together a time or two more — and build toward its future. But for Indiana, might it only offer the chance for more disappointment?
Don’t get me wrong, Indiana is doing the right thing by playing in the NIT and hosting the event. In 2017, when Indiana accepted an NIT invitation but declined to host the event, Crimson Quarry lamented the decision. Kyle Swick noted that “[a]n NIT game might not be a big deal for a run-of-the-mill ticket holder,” but that Indiana could’ve provided an opportunity for many area fans to see the Hoosiers, especially with students on Spring Break.