Auburn Tops Nevada to Reach NIT Semifinals

March 25, 2026 - AUBURN, Ala. - Auburn powered past Nevada 75–69 in the NIT quarterfinals, earning a historic trip to the tournament's semifinals for the first time in program history. The Tigers controlled most of the game at Neville Arena, using balanced scoring, defensive pressure, and timely plays to hold off a late Nevada surge.

The Auburn Tigers continued their postseason momentum with a 75–69 win over the Nevada Wolf Pack on March 25, 2026, advancing to the NIT semifinals for the first time. The victory also secured Auburn's fifth straight 20‑win season, a milestone that underscores the program's consistency.

Key Performers

Auburn

• Filip Jović delivered a standout performance with 18 points and nine rebounds, shooting an efficient 9-for-12 from the field. His early dunks in the second half helped Auburn maintain control.

• Tahaad Pettiford added 16 points and six assists, including a crucial three‑point play and a late steal that set up a transition dunk.

• Elyjah Freeman played all 40 minutes, scoring 15 points, including several clutch baskets in the final minutes to fend off Nevada's comeback.

• Keyshawn Hall contributed 14 points and six rebounds, providing steady production throughout the night.

Nevada

• Elijah Price dominated for the Wolf Pack with 22 points and 11 rebounds, marking his 12th double‑double of the season.

• Vaughn Weems added 15 points, while Corey Camper Jr. chipped in 13, helping Nevada stay within striking distance late.

How the Game Unfolded

First Half

Auburn jumped out to an early lead, using defensive pressure and transition scoring to build a 38–26 halftime advantage. Nevada struggled to find rhythm early but managed to trim the deficit at times before Auburn reasserted control.

Second Half

The Tigers extended their lead to 15 after back‑to‑back dunks from Jović. Nevada responded with a 7–0 run, eventually cutting the margin to six with under five minutes remaining. Auburn, however, answered with key plays-Freeman's dunk, Pettiford's steal, and Hall's transition finish-to keep the Wolf Pack at bay.

Despite Nevada's late three‑pointers, Auburn's composure and timely scoring secured the win.

What's Next for Auburn

With the victory, Auburn advances to face Illinois State in the NIT semifinals at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Tigers remain the lone high‑major program still alive in the tournament, adding intrigue to their postseason run.