NEW YORK – In generalities he knew this was big. Taking a closer look at specifics told how big it was. Coach Monte Ross realized the Pre-Season NIT represented three things for his program:
1. Exposure
2. Competition
3. Opportunity
The first was a no-brainer. Delaware, a respectable mid-major could only benefit with a good showing on the two dates at the World’s Most Famous Arena. Getting to New York was an achievement that caught the attention of many followers.
The second point was the obvious. To get their ticket punched to New York they had to defeat Virginia in Charlottesville. In New York the likes of Kansas State in the semifinals, and ultimately, Pitt in the consolation loomed as formidable opposition. A great chance for Ross’ team to face extremely demanding competition and get a read on themselves.
The third point, opportunity, was driven home by Ross following the semifinal setback at the hands of Kansas state. “We were thrilled and thankful that we were invited,” Ross said. The Delaware mentor pointed out the NIT Season Tip-Off is still an “earn your way tournament”. Ross was not calling out events like the 2K Sports Classic or Legends that Classic invite fields and have their “final four” pegged no matter the early round results. Rather, he is appreciative of the NIT format that helps a mid-major aspiring for greater heights. “That’s what makes the (NIT) tournament so special,” Ross noted. “For us it was a big deal to be able to earn our way here and have an opportunity to play a Kansas State.”
Ross, a Philadelphia native with a natural affinity of basketball in the East, was impressed with the likes of Michigan coach John Beilein singing the praises for the NIT during the “final four” press conference in New York.
Exposure and competition are undoubtedly major factors in the NIT. For Ross the third point previously mentioned was driven home. “I hope it (NIT) never changes,” he said. “It’s fantastic for a school like Delaware to have an opportunity to be here.” Ross also added that opportunities like the one afforded by the NIT are dwindling. With a touch of humor Ross summed it up in saying, “We just have to hopefully keep getting invited to the Pre-Season NIT.”
