UC Irvine Anteaters face Jacksonville State Gamecocks in NIT showdown

In Irvine, California, on March 23, 2025, the UC Irvine Anteaters are set to compete against the Jacksonville State Gamecocks in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). The Anteaters, boasting an impressive season record of 29 wins and 6 losses, entered the tournament following a strong performance in the Big West Conference, where they secured an 18-4 record. Conversely, the Gamecocks hold a record of 23 wins and 12 losses, having completed a 14-7 run in Conference USA. This matchup is significant as it marks the first meeting between these two teams in the current season. UC Irvine is known for its offensive efficiency, averaging 76.1 points per game while shooting at a 45.6% clip from the field. The Anteaters have demonstrated a solid attacking strategy, particularly in conference play, where they managed to finish with the second-best assist average in the Big West at 15.8 assists per game. Meanwhile, Jacksonville State holds the ninth position in the CUSA for assists, averaging 11.7 per game, with Jaron Pierre Jr. leading the way for the Gamecocks. The game is set to be held at 9 p.m. EDT and showcases a contest of two teams with distinct playing styles and resilient records leading into this tournament. The Anteaters are coming off a hot streak, winning 8 of their last 10 games, while the Gamecocks have had a more inconsistent run with 6 wins and 4 losses in their recent games. The performance in this knockout stage will be critical for both teams as they endeavor to advance further in the tournament, with the stakes high for UC Irvine aiming to make a significant postseason run. This matchup is viewed as a chance for the Anteaters to carry their momentum into the tournament, while Jacksonville State will seek to upset the favorites and assert themselves as a competitive force.