Murray State Racers Head to Reno for NIT First Round Matchup Against Nevada

The Murray State Racers men’s basketball team (20-12) will compete in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) for the ninth time in program history, facing the Nevada Wolf Pack (22-12) in the first round. The game is scheduled for 9 p.m. Central Time on Wednesday, March 18, at Lawlor Events Center in Reno, Nevada.

First-Ever Meeting

This matchup marks the first-ever meeting between the Murray State Racers and the Nevada Wolf Pack. The winner will advance to the second round of the Auburn Regional, where they will face the victor of the George Mason vs. Liberty game played on Tuesday night. View game details on FOX Sports.

Racers Season Recap

Murray State concluded the 2025-26 season with a 20-12 overall record and a 12-8 mark in Missouri Valley Conference play, securing a share of third place. The Racers reached a 16-3 start under first-year Head Coach Ryan Miller, fueled by a 12-game winning streak. Despite a 92-79 loss to UIC in the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament, the team earned an NIT bid.

MVC All-Conference Honors

Three Racers earned All-Missouri Valley Conference honors: Fred King (MVC Newcomer of the Year, All-Newcomer Team, All-Defensive Team), Roman Domon (MVC Freshman of the Year, Sixth Man of the Year, All-Freshman Team, All-Bench Team, All-MVC Third Team), and Javon Jackson (All-MVC Second Team). Read more on the Murray State Athletics website.

Nevada’s NIT History

Nevada holds a 5-5 record in the NIT. This appearance marks the Wolf Pack’s first in the tournament since 2012, when they reached the quarterfinals. Find more information on the Nevada Wolf Pack website.

NIT Tournament Structure

The first three rounds of the NIT will be played on campus sites. The semifinals are scheduled for April 2 at Hinkle Fieldhouse, and the championship game will be held on April 5 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

MVC Teams in the NIT

Here’s a look at other Missouri Valley Conference teams participating in the NIT on Wednesday, March 18:

• Kent State at #4 Illinois State, 7 p.m. CT (ESPN+)
• #2 Dayton at Bradley, 8 p.m. CT (ESPNU)
• UIC at #2 California, 10 p.m. CT (ESPN2)

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