The Colorado State men’s basketball team has earned a spot in the 2026 NIT after the brackets were revealed on March 15.
The Rams were aware that their resume was not strong enough to secure a place in the NCAA Tournament. They were, however, hopeful of continuing their season in the NIT (National Invitation Tournament).
Matchup against Saint Joseph’s
The Rams will face Saint Joseph’s, hosting the game at Moby Arena. The game between CSU and Saint Joseph’s is scheduled for March 18. The game will be broadcast on ESPNU.
The 32-team bracket is divided into four regions, with teams seeded 1-4. Colorado State is a No. 3 seed in a region led by No. 1 New Mexico. The winner of the CSU and Saint Joseph’s game will advance to the second round. They will then face the winner of the game between No. 2 Cal and UIC.
Saint Joseph’s Season So Far
Saint Joseph’s has a record of 22-11. They finished third in the A-10. Saint Joseph’s lost to VCU in the A-10 tournament semi-finals.
Colorado State’s Season
CSU has a record of 21-12 under first-year coach Ali Farokhmanesh. This marks the sixth 20-plus win season out of the last seven for the program.
The Rams have participated in the NCAA Tournament in each of the last two seasons. They have made the tournament three times in the last four years.
NIT History
CSU last played in the NIT in 2021. That team, led by Isaiah Stevens and David Roddy, made the NIT Final Four.
NIT Final Four Details
The Final Four NIT games will be played in Indianapolis. The semi-finals will be held at Hinkle Fieldhouse and the championship at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.