Matchup: Loyola Chicago Ramblers (A-10) vs. Chattanooga Mocs (SoCon Regular Season Champs) in the NIT Semifinals.
Game Details: Tuesday, April 1, 2025, 9:30 PM ET at Hinkle Fieldhouse, Indianapolis. Watch live on ESPN2.
Loyola's Momentum: Coming off a record 17 home wins this season. Advanced by defeating Kent State (72-62), San Francisco (77-76), and San Jose State (73-70). Showcased improved free-throw shooting (22-24 vs. USF) and ball control (season-low 4 turnovers vs. USF).
Chattanooga's Strengths: Won the SoCon regular season title (15-3). Advanced by beating Bradley (67-65), Dayton, and Middle Tennessee State. Rank among NCAA leaders in assist-to-turnover ratio (7th, 1.67), assists per game (17.0), effective field goal percentage (.564), and field goal percentage (.481).
Players to Watch (Loyola): Sophomore Center Miles Rubin leads with defensive prowess (84 blocks, 6th nationally, broke own school record) and efficiency (70.4% FG). Junior Guard Jayden Dawson provides scoring punch (35 points vs. USF).
Players to Watch (Chattanooga): Guard Honor Huff leads scoring (15.3 ppg, 21 vs. Bradley). Senior Guard Garrison Keeslar leads the NCAA in assist-to-turnover ratio (5.40) and averages 4.5 assists. Guard Trey Bonham hit the game-winner against Bradley.
Why this matters: Both teams overcame conference tournament setbacks to make deep runs in the NIT. They now battle in a legendary arena for a chance to play for the NIT Championship, showcasing resilience and high-level college basketball.
The Road to Indy:
Loyola Chicago battled their way through the NIT bracket, securing a crucial home win against Kent State thanks to strong performances from Miles Rubin (18 points, 9 rebounds) and efficient team play (20 assists on 27 baskets). Their second-round victory over San Francisco was highlighted by Jayden Dawson's explosive 35-point career high. Chattanooga, the SoCon regular-season champions, showed their mettle by overcoming a 13-point halftime deficit to defeat Bradley, powered by Honor Huff's 21 points and Trey Bonham's clutch game-winning shot.
Statistical Battleground:
This game features contrasting strengths. Loyola leans on players like Miles Rubin, whose shot-blocking ranks among the nation's best (2.3 bpg), anchoring their defense. Chattanooga boasts a highly efficient offense, ranking in the NCAA top 30 for field goal percentage and assists, orchestrated by Garrison Keeslar, the nation's leader in assist-to-turnover ratio. Controlling turnovers and maximizing possessions will be key for both squads.
Hinkle Fieldhouse History:
The game takes place at Butler University's Hinkle Fieldhouse, famed as "Indiana's Basketball Cathedral" and the setting for the movie "Hoosiers." While Chattanooga players noted they aren't focused on the cinematic history, the iconic venue adds a special atmosphere to the semifinal clash. Chattanooga seeks its first win at Hinkle, having lost in two previous visits (2011, 2014).
Q: What time is the Loyola Chicago vs. Chattanooga game?
A: Tip-off is at 9:30 PM ET / 8:30 PM CT on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Q: Where is the game being played?
A: Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Q: How can I watch the NIT Semifinal?
A: The game will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and can be streamed via services like Fubo (Try for free!). *Regional restrictions may apply.*
Q: Who advanced to the other NIT Semifinal?
A: The article focuses on the Loyola-Chattanooga game; check NIT brackets for the other matchup details.
Expect a competitive game between two determined teams peaking late in the season.
Watch for the matchup between Loyola's defense, particularly Miles Rubin's rim protection, and Chattanooga's efficient, high-assist offense led by Honor Huff and Garrison Keeslar.
Enjoy the game being played in one of college basketball's most historic and revered arenas.
This is a prime opportunity to see talented players compete for a spot in the NIT Championship game.
Which team has the edge to reach the NIT Championship game? Will Loyola's defense or Chattanooga's offense prevail? Let us know your predictions in the comments!
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Loyola University Chicago Athletics: Loyola, Chattanooga To Play in NIT Semifinals
Chattanoogan.com: Focused Mocs Unfazed By “Hoosiers” History At Hinkle Fieldhouse (Referenced for context)
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