NIT Apologizes After Rescinding South Alabama's Tournament Invitation

A miscommunication involving UC Riverside led to South Alabama's exclusion from the NIT, ending their season despite a strong 21-11 record.

South Alabama initially received an NIT invitation after UC Riverside was thought to be unavailable due to a prior commitment to the CBI.
UC Riverside later withdrew from the CBI and accepted the NIT invitation, leading the NIT to rescind South Alabama's spot late Sunday night.
South Alabama head coach Richie Riley criticized the decision as 'unacceptable,' expressing frustration over the emotional impact on his team.
The NIT and Sun Belt Conference issued public apologies, acknowledging the premature invitation and its impact on South Alabama's players and staff.
UC Riverside is now set to face Santa Clara in the NIT's first round on Tuesday, while South Alabama's season ends despite earning a Sun Belt regular-season co-championship.