Expert prediction
NIT First Round: Sam Houston vs New Mexico Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 18)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Bearkats make their third NIT appearance in program history.
- The Lobos pull off their 21st NIT berth, their first since 2023.
- This marks the third all-time matchup between the two squads.
The first round of the 2026 NIT the remains present throughout the night hours of the March 18 schedule as the Sam Houston Bearkats take on the New Mexico Lobos. The latter stands tall as the solid favorite, creating a potential upset scenario as Sam Houston looks to keep up with New Mexico.
How to Watch
- When: Wednesday, March 18, 9 pm ET
- Where: The Pit, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- How to Watch: ESPN+
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Houston | -110 | +11.5 | O162 |
| New Mexico | -110 | -11.5 | U162 |
Game Preview
The Bearkats (22-11) make their second NIT appearance in the past four seasons and third overall. Sam Houston improved from a 13-19 campaign last season to a 22-11 record this year, seeing head coach Chris Mudge earned Co-Coach of the Year honors. Kashie Natt was named CUSA’s Defensive Player of the Year, freshman Jacob Walker was named Sixth Man of the Year and Po’Boigh King also earned all-conference honors. Natt is averaging 10.7 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.1 steals per game. Walker comes next with 11.4 points and 2.3 assists, while King is producing 14.1 points and two rebounds per contest.
The Lobos (23-10) remain active as a postseason participant, last reaching the NIT in 2023. New Mexico is led by Mountain West Freshman of the Year Jake Hall and fellow All-Mountain West honoree Tomislav Buljan. Hall has been explosive with averages of 16 points and 3.3 rebounds per game on 44.5% shooting from beyond the arc. Buljan will be present as an inside threat with 12.5 points and 10.4 rebounds per contest.
Sam Houston vs New Mexico Head-to-Head
The two programs have had two meetings in their history, and the result is 2-0 for the Lobos. The last matchup was in November 1999 when New Mexico won 71-61 at home.
Sam Houston vs New Mexico Predictions
The winner will play the Utah Valley-George Washington winner in the second round, either March 21 or 22. Sam Houston exceeded expectations as the team looks forward to its time in the NIT. However, they take on a strong New Mexico squad that will cause a lot of trouble for them on both side of the ball. Our betting pick here is for the Lobos to cover an 11.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: New Mexico Lobos +11.5
NCAAB
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