Expert prediction
NIT Championship: Tulsa vs Auburn Preview, Odds, Predictions (April 5)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Golden Hurricane eliminated New Mexico from the semifinals of the NIT.
- The Tigers took down Illinois State in the semifinal round.
- This marks the fourth all-time matchup between the two squads.
The 2026 NIT will come to an end as the Auburn Tigers take on the Tulsa Golden Hurricane on Sunday night. The former stands out as the slight favorite, meaning that Tulsa will have its work cut out for them throughout the championship showdown.
How to Watch
- When: Sunday, April 5, 8 pm ET
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana
- How to Watch: ESPN2
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tulsa | -110 | +5.5 | O160 |
| Auburn | -110 | -5.5 | U160 |
Game Preview
The Golden Hurricane (30-7) have a lot of momentum going their way in the tournament, taking down Stephen F. Austin, UNLV, Wichita State, and New Mexico. They advance to the championship round of the NIT for the third time in program history. Ade Popoola scored 12 points, converting four 3-pointers and recording six rebounds. Tyler Behrend collected eight rebounds and added seven points, while also leading with two steals. Tylen Riley contributed 10 points and led the team with five assists. David Green posted 13 points, making 7-of-8 free throws and blocking two shots.
The Tigers (21-16) make their first-ever appearance in the NIT championship game, taking down South Alabama, Seattle, Nevada, and most recently Illinois State in the semifinals. Auburn got 24 points from Keyshawn Hall and made 12 3-pointers to overwhelm the Redbirds in the process. Kevin Overton scored 16 points, Filip Jovic scored 13 and Tahaad Pettiford added 12 points and a game-high five assists. Overton went 5-for-5 from 3-point range and Sebastian Williams-Adams made all three of his 3-pointers to help the Tigers shoot 57.1 percent from deep, going 12 for 21.
Tulsa vs Auburn Head-to-Head
The two programs have had three meetings in their history, and the result is 2-1 for the Tigers. The last matchup was in November 2014 when Tulsa won 53-35.
Tulsa vs Auburn Predictions
The winner of this matchup will stand tall as the NIT champions. Auburn has enjoyed a solid run in the tournament, having gone through many ups and downs throughout the regular season. However, their quality of play will be put to the test against an explosive Tulsa squad that will look to make sure they tame the Tigers’ attack and come out of the NIT with the championship. Our betting pick here is the Golden Hurricane to cover a 5.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Tulsa Golden Hurricane +5.5
NCAAB
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