Illinois State Welcomes Kent State in Opening Round of the NIT
Written by Adam Tichler on March 18, 2026
Image courtesy Redbird_MBB on X
NORMAL, Ill. – The Redbirds look to make another postseason run for the second season, this time in the NIT.
For the first time since the 2016-17 season, ISU is in the NIT as they host the Kent State Golden Flashes. Last season, the Redbirds won the CBI tournament and now take a step up into the NIT.
Tip-off is at 7 p.m. at CEFCU Arena on March 18.
ISU’s record sits at 20-12 following a quarterfinal loss in the MVC tournament to Northern Iowa. Head Coach Ryan Pedon is excited to get back out on the court.
“The slate is wiped clean when you get to the postseason; everybody is 0 and 0. We are excited to be competing, practicing, and playing this time of year,” Pedon said.
Chase Walker leads the Redbirds with 13.5 points per game. Walker is ready to play with his teammates again.
“Get another chance to play, that’s really what it is,” Walker said. “Finishing the season off strong with my guys and the seniors.”
Senior Landon Wolf was not sure about the future of his career, but with a bid into the NIT, he gets another chance to put on the Illinois State jersey.
“We were pretty certain we weren’t going to play again,” Wolf said. “Having that opportunity to come out with the guys again, wearing the Illinois State jersey, it means a lot.”
Kent State sits at a record of 24 and 9. The Golden Flashes are led by Delrecco Gillespie, who scores 18 points a night.
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