Illinois State Falls to Top Seeded Auburn in NIT Semifnal

NORMAL, Ill.- Illinois State met it’s match to end the 2025-2026 season, which ended where college basketball plays at a premium, Indianapolis.

Illinois State headed to Indianapolis for an NIT Semifinal contest against the top-seeded Auburn Tigers at one of the highest stages. From the opening tip, Auburn set the tone with its pace and physicality, jumping out to an early lead behind efficient shooting and aggressive defense. Illinois State struggled to find rhythm offensively in the first half, facing constant pressure that disrupted their ball movement and forced difficult looks late in the shot clock. Despite a few bright moments, highlighted by transition buckets and second-chance efforts, the Redbirds went into the break trailing by double digits.

In the second half, Illinois State showed resilience, stringing together a brief run that cut into the deficit and brought some life to the bench. Defensive stops turned into fast-break opportunities, and for a stretch, it looked like momentum might shift. However, Auburn responded with composure, knocking down timely three-pointers and controlling the glass to halt any comeback hopes.

The Redbirds continued to battle, but Auburn’s depth and efficiency proved too much down the stretch. Illinois State couldn’t consistently get stops or sustain scoring runs, and the gap widened in the final minutes. Auburn would close out the game and walk away with an 88-66 victory over the Redbirds.

Leading the way for the Redbirds was Freshman Ty’Reek Coleman, who off the bench, put up 17 points on 7 of 12 shooting. Alongside Coleman was Chase Walker and Ty Pence who both added 12 points of their own, with Walker leading the team in rebounds with 7.

While the loss ends their NIT journey just short of the championship game, the Redbirds’ run to the semifinals marks a significant achievement. It showcased the team’s growth, resilience, and ability to compete on a national stage, something they’ll look to build on moving forward.

For the Redbirds, it’s a disappointing finish on the night, but a postseason run that signals a promising direction for the program.

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