South Carolina Gamecocks Reject NIT Invitation Following Disappointing Season
The South Carolina Gamecocks’ basketball season took an unexpected turn, falling short of expectations. The team managed only two conference victories in a highly competitive SEC, where 14 out of 16 schools secured spots in the final March Madness brackets.
Despite receiving an invitation to compete in the NIT Tournament, head coach Lamont Paris announced that the Gamecocks have chosen to decline.
“I have immense respect for the NIT and the opportunity it provides teams to compete for a championship,” Paris stated. “However, due to roster challenges and injuries, we’ve decided it’s in our best interest to sit out this year.”
Paris acknowledged the strength of the SEC this season, calling it one of the toughest conferences in college basketball history. While the team fell short of its goal of making the NCAA Tournament, he expressed pride in the resilience and dedication his players showed throughout the season.
He also extended heartfelt gratitude to the Gamecocks’ passionate fanbase for their unwavering support, promising to build on the team’s foundation and set their sights on an NCAA Tournament return in 2026.
