Penn State and Mississippi State are two young teams with high hopes for next season. But which one takes a step closer to finishing out this season with an NIT title?
TV schedule: Tuesday, March, 27, 9:00 p.m. ET. ESPN
Arena: Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York
While many teams are disappointed to be playing in the NIT rather than the NCAA Tournament, this event can be a launching pad towards a successful season next year. The reigning champs TCU is a prime example, who took their title and turned into their first bid in over 20 years.
Mississippi State (25-11) had a young roster that wasn’t ready for what was an overall tough SEC basketball league, but with no seniors, is looking to be one of the top teams next year. The Bulldogs are looking to reach the finals of the NIT, after beating Nebraska at home, before taking down both Louisville and Baylor on the road.
Four players for Ben Howland’s team was in double figures, with Quinndary Weatherspoon leading the way with 19 points and 14 rebounds. He along with his brother Nick are the foundation for Mississippi State basketball going forward.
The future for Penn State (24-13) lies with the team’s trio of sophomores. Tony Carr, Mike Watkins, and Lamar Stevens are the team’s top scorers, passers, and rebounders for the season. And if all three return, the Nittany Lions should contend for a top-four spot in the Big Ten next season.
Watkins was unable to play, but Carr and Stevens combined for 55 points in Penn State’s 85-80 win over Marquette. The Golden Eagles were joined by Temple and Notre Dame as teams Pat Chambers and company beat to get to this point.
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Both teams are fairly even, but Mississippi State is a bit healthier and has more scoring than Penn State, who rely on their youngsters for the offense. In a game that’s sure to go down to the wire, the Bulldogs advance to the NIT finals.
Prediction: Mississippi State 76 – Penn State 72