The pathways to the 2011 NIT and 2019 NIT for Wichita State are different. In a best-case scenario, however, the results are similar.
In 2011, an experienced Wichita State basketball came up short of an NCAA Tournament bid and ended the regular season disappointed. The 2019 Shockers, loaded with newcomers, aspired to make the NIT months ago with an NCAA bid unlikely.
The 2011 team – led by seniors such as NIT MVP Graham Hatch, J.T. Durley and Aaron Ellis – made the most of its situation by winning the tournament.