Valparaiso, George Washington will meet for NIT championship

Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.

Valparaiso will face George Washington for the NIT championship on Thursday night.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

The Crusaders, a No. 1 seed, are in the game after a thrilling semifinal matchup with BYU. David Skara hit a three-pointer to put Valpo ahead of BYU 71–68 with 20 seconds left. The Crusaders held on to win 72–70. Valparaiso also beat Texas Southern, Florida State and St. Mary’s en route to the championship round.

George Washington is in the final after a decisive, 65–46 victory over San Diego State. The Colonials led by 15 at halftime of their semifinal matchup, and held on the rest of the way. The Colonials also beat Hofstra, upset No. 1 seed Monmouth, and defeated the Florida Gators during their tournament run.

The championship game will be held at Madison Square Garden in New York City.