Auburn Wins First NIT Title in 92-86 OT Win Over Tulsa

Auburn Tigers captured their first National Invitation Tournament championship with a dramatic 92-86 overtime victory over the Tulsa Golden Hurricane on Sunday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

The Tigers, who entered the game with a 21-16 record after missing the NCAA Tournament, squandered a 21-point halftime lead of 48-31 but mounted a late rally to force the extra period. Tulsa, finishing 30-8 and seeking a third NIT title, seized control in the second half with a 22-2 run that gave them a 61-59 advantage with 10:26 remaining. The Golden Hurricane extended their surge behind David Green's 10 points in the stretch, including three free throws and a three-pointer.

Auburn's comeback hinged on resilience in the closing seconds of regulation. With Tulsa leading 78-75, the Golden Hurricane committed a five-second violation on an inbound pass after Elyjah Freeman's free throw. Kevin Overton, who led all scorers with 26 points, capitalized by draining a corner three-pointer with eight seconds left to tie the score at 78-78 and send the game to overtime. In the extra frame, Auburn outscored Tulsa 14-8, with Overton adding a deep three and a free throw in the final two...