NIT Semifinals: New Mexico vs Tulsa Preview, Odds, Predictions (April 2)
- The Lobos took down Saint Joseph’s in the quarterfinals.
- The Golden Hurricane got past Wichita State in the quarterfinal round.
- This marks the fourth all-time matchup between the two squads.
The 2026 NIT is set for an incredible set of games in the semifinals, seeing the New Mexico Lobos take on the Tulsa Golden Hurricane. The latter comes out as the slight favorite, presenting many challenges for the Lobos squad.
How to Watch
- When: Thursday, April 2, 7 pm ET
- Where: Hinkle Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana
- How to Watch: ESPN
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | -110 | +3.5 | O161.5 |
| Tulsa | -110 | -3.5 | U161.5 |
Game Preview
The Lobos (26-10) have pulled off a deep run in the NIT, getting past Sam Houston, George Washington and Saint Joseph’s to be one of the last four standing in the tournament. They are in the NIT semifinals for the third time in program history (1964 runner-up, 1990 fourth place). In the latest game, Tomislav Buljan led UNM with a career-high 27 points to go with 11 rebounds, his 17th double-double of the season. Jake Hall added 24 points while Luke Haupt scored 10 points and had five assists for New Mexico.
The Golden Hurricane (29-7) have a lot of momentum going their way in the tournament, taking down Stephen F. Austin, UNLV and Wichita State. They advance to the semifinals of the NIT for the third time in program history, winning each of the last two times they did so. Tylen Riley scored 21 points and recorded six assists while converting all eight of his free throw attempts. Miles Barnstable led with 24 points, making five 3-pointers and adding seven free throws. Ade Popoola contributed 12 points, including three successful shots from beyond the arc. David Green collected six rebounds and added five points to the team’s effort.
New Mexico vs Tulsa Head-to-Head
The two programs have had three meetings in their history, and the result is 2-1 for the Lobos as the last game took place in 1998.
New Mexico vs Tulsa Predictions
The winner of this semifinal matchup will take on the victor between Illinois State and Auburn in the championship. Both squads have showcased incredible efforts throughout the campaign, going all out to secure their place in the final. This game will go down to the wire, but Tulsa might be the team to pull off more clutch plays in the final minutes. Our betting pick here is the Golden Hurricane to defend a 3.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick:Â Tulsa Golden Hurricane -3.5
