JONESBORO, Ark. (March 19, 2025) – The Arkansas State University (ASU) men's basketball team is poised to make waves in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) as they head into the second round against the University of North Texas on Sunday, March 23, 2025. With a strong season record of 25 wins and 10 losses, the Red Wolves will face off against the Mean Green, who have also showcased a robust season at 25-8. This highly anticipated game will begin at 6 p.m. CT at The Super Pit in Denton, Texas, and will be broadcast live on ESPNU.
The matchup comes on the heels of a commanding victory where the Red Wolves defeated Saint Louis, 103-78, in the first round of the NIT on March 18, 2025, marking ASU's second consecutive postseason victory. This success is not just a statistic; it represents a remarkable transformation led by ASU Coach Bryan Hodgson, who has made a name for himself after taking over a struggling team that lost more than 20 games in the previous season and converting them into a tournament contender.
The upcoming game against North Texas marks the 42nd all-time meeting between the two programs, with the Mean Green holding a slight edge, leading the series 22-19. This is the first clash between the teams since February 28, 2013.
Hodgson's strategic coaching during the last game was evident, as he cleared his bench, allowing 13 players to gain valuable tournament experience. The game saw ASU shooting an impressive 54.1% from the field, including a stunning 16 three-pointers. Izaiyah Nelson was the standout player, scoring 26 points and grabbing 10 rebounds while also recording four steals, showcasing an exceptional performance that helped propel the team to victory. Taryn Todd contributed significantly with 21 points, including four three-pointers and a season-high seven assists.
The team's well-rounded performance is reflected in their 24 assists on 40 made baskets, outscoring their opponents 46-38 in the paint and winning the rebounding battle 38-34. Coach Hodgson's focus on teamwork and shared success seems to be paying off, as they not only advanced in the NIT but also put their program firmly back on the map.
The Red Wolves' recent win against Saint Louis also made them the first Sun Belt Conference team since 2017 to achieve victory in the NIT, a feat worth noting for the conference. Hodgson's leadership and coaching acumen are drawing attention, and as he navigates the present success, observers are speculating that he may soon be a sought-after name for head coaching positions at some larger programs.
Meanwhile, North Texas, who the Red Wolves will face in the next round, defeated Furman 75-64 in their first-round matchup. As ASU prepares for this important game, it represents not only a chance to advance further in the NIT but also a moment to build on their successful season and further establish their program as a powerful contender in college basketball.
The atmosphere around the ASU campus is charged with excitement, as fans eagerly anticipate this matchup with North Texas, a former conference rival. Tickets for the game, priced at $29, will go on sale on March 20, 2025, starting at 9 a.m. through the A-State Ticket Office. Fans can purchase through the First National Bank Arena box office or online at AStateRedWolves.com.
As the countdown to tip-off begins, the stakes are high not just for the players on the court but for the broader implications of what a continued NIT run could mean for the future of ASU basketball. The team has proved they are a force to be reckoned with, and moving forward, they are ready to showcase their aspirations and skill against tough competition.
Whether ASU can gain revenge for the historical edge held by North Texas remains to be seen, but the Red Wolves are certainly ready to rise to the challenge ahead. Fans have shown unwavering support throughout the season, and this latest chapter of ASU basketball promises to be an exciting ride.
