If only every NCAA Tournament game could match the intensity of the NIT Championship!

In a thrilling showdown in Indianapolis, the NIT Championship featured an electrifying battle between UC Irvine and Chattanooga that came down to the final seconds of overtime. The game was filled with tension, excitement, and a series of nail-biting moments that left fans on the edge of their seats.

With just 2.4 seconds remaining and UC Irvine trailing 85-84, Devin Tillis launched a daring full-court pass that was expertly caught by 7-foot-1 center Bent Leuchten. Leuchten swiftly passed the ball to Jurian Dixon, who found himself wide open for a layup that could have clinched the game. However, in a heart-stopping twist, Dixon's shot ricocheted off the rim, handing Chattanooga its first-ever NIT title.

The final moments of the game were filled with drama. With 31 seconds left in overtime, Leuchten had an opportunity to extend UC Irvine's lead from the free-throw line, but both of his attempts fell short. In a stunning turnaround, Chattanooga's Garrison Keeslar hit a crucial jumper from the free-throw line with just 11 seconds remaining, reclaiming the lead for his team.

As the tension mounted, UC Irvine had one last shot at victory after Chattanooga failed to convert two free-throws, leaving the Anteaters with an unexpected chance. The frantic final sequence culminated in that unforgettable missed layup, further deepening the heartbreak for UC Irvine.

This championship marked a historic moment for both schools, as it was their first-ever appearance in the NIT final. Key performances included Chattanooga’s David Bonham, who had an impressive 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Keeslar achieved a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. For UC Irvine, Tillis scored 19 points with a standout performance in the first half, while Leuchten contributed with 15 points and 11 rebounds.

Notably, Bonham's incredible half-court shot at the halftime buzzer gave Chattanooga a slim 38-37 lead going into the break, showcasing the kind of electric moments that defined the night.

Throughout the final stretch of regulation, both teams faced controversial calls that left fans debating the officials' decisions. Chattanooga’s Honor Huff cleverly drew a foul by kicking out his leg, which resulted in three free throws that helped them take a crucial lead. On the other hand, UC Irvine’s Myles Che successfully got his defender in the air on a 3-point attempt, earning free throws of his own to tie the game in the dying seconds.

As the NIT Championship ended with heartbreak for one team and jubilation for the other, it proved to be a thrilling testament to the unpredictable nature of college basketball. Fans will be buzzing about this unforgettable game long after the final buzzer. Could this be the spark that ignites a new rivalry between these two schools in future tournaments? Only time will tell!