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South Alabama's NIT Bid Rescinded After UC Riverside Reversal

The NCAA and NIT apologized for the procedural error, but South Alabama's coach and leadership criticized the emotional toll on players and called the situation avoidable.

Nov 14, 2023; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; South Alabama head coach Richie Riley gives instructions to his team as the play Alabama at Coleman Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo
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Overview

  • South Alabama was invited to the NIT late Sunday after UC Riverside initially declined its spot in favor of the College Basketball Invitational (CBI).
  • UC Riverside reversed its decision and accepted the NIT invitation, leading to South Alabama's bid being rescinded an hour later.
  • South Alabama head coach Richie Riley called the situation 'unacceptable,' while athletic director Joel Erdmann described it as 'avoidable.'
  • The NCAA and NIT issued apologies, acknowledging the emotional impact on South Alabama players and staff but faced backlash for their handling of the error.
  • The Jaguars' season ended with a 21-11 record and a share of the Sun Belt regular-season championship, with no postseason opportunity.