Expert prediction
NIT First Round: St. Thomas-Minnesota vs Seattle Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 17)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Tommies make their first-ever DI postseason appearance in program history.
- The Redhawks return to the NIT for the first time since the 1950s
- This marks the second all-time matchup between the two squads.
The first round of the 2026 NIT gets interesting as the St. Thomas-Minnesota Tommies take on the Seattle Redhawks on March 17. The latter comes out as the slight favorite, presenting a matchup that provides intrigue for mid-major basketball fans across the country.
How to Watch
- When: Tuesday, March 17, 10 pm ET
- Where: Redhawk Center, Seattle, Washington
- How to Watch: ESPN+
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Thomas-Minnesota | -105 | +1.5 | O146 |
| Seattle | -115 | -1.5 | U146 |
Game Preview
The Tommies (24-9) accomplished a major milestone in program history since moving up to the Division I basketball level: making the postseason after qualifying for the NIT. Nick Janowski was named Freshman of the Year and joined Nolan Minessale as First Team All-League selections. Janowski becomes the second Tommie to earn Freshman of the Year and led all freshmen while ranking second in the league with 19.1 points per game, adding eight 20-point outings and two 30-point performances in Summit play. Minessale also secured First Team recognition and All-Defensive Team honors after averaging 17.4 points, 4.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game in league action.
It has been a long time since the Redhawks (20-13) made an appearance in the NIT, last appearing in it during the 1957 edition. This latest invitation marks their third NIT berth in program history. Brayden Maldonado stands out as the leading scorer and sharpshooter, producing 14.4 points and 3.3 rebounds per game while making 70 3-pointers on a 36.5% clip. Meanwhile, Will Heimbrodt shines as an active shot blocker with 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per contest.
St. Thomas-Minnesota vs Seattle vs Yale Head-to-Head
The two programs have had one meeting in their history, and the result is 1-0 for the Redhawks. The last matchup was in November 2021 when Seattle won 81-64 at home.
St. Thomas-Minnesota vs Seattle Predictions
The winner will advance to play the winner of No. 1 seed Auburn vs. South Alabama on either Saturday, March 21 or Sunday, March 22. Seattle returning from decades-long absence is a solid feat for the program to finally end and return to postseason activity. However, the up-and-coming Tommies might have a case to make when it comes to being the better performing squad. Our betting pick here is for the Tommies to cover a 1.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: St. Thomas-Minnesota Tommies +1.5
NCAAB
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