UC Irvine Advances to First-Ever NIT Championship After Historic Comeback

The Anteaters overcame a 15-point deficit to defeat North Texas 69-67, setting a program record with their 32nd win and securing a title game against Chattanooga.

• UC Irvine defeated North Texas 69-67 in the NIT semifinals on April 1, 2025, marking their first appearance in the championship game.
• The Anteaters set a program record with their 32nd win of the season, showcasing resilience and teamwork.
• Devin Tillis led UC Irvine with 16 points and 11 rebounds, while Justin Hohn hit three critical three-pointers in the final 10 minutes.
• North Texas's Atin Wright scored a game-high 25 points, but the Mean Green fell short in head coach Ross Hodge's final tournament before his departure to West Virginia.
• UC Irvine will face Chattanooga in the NIT championship game on April 3, 2025, at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

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