Maui Invitational Tips Off With Eight Teams Vying for Early Season Glory

The Maui Invitational basketball tournament tipped off Monday. Eight elite college teams are competing at the Lahaina Civic Center. The event runs through Wednesday, November 26.

This marks the 41st annual edition of the prestigious early-season tournament. According to ESPN, NC State entered as the highest-ranked team at No. 25 in the nation. The field features several programs with championship aspirations.

Tournament Field and Opening Day Action

Monday featured four exciting matchups. NC State faced Seton Hall in the opening game at 2:30 p.m. ET.

First-year coach Will Wade brought his undefeated Wolfpack to their Maui debut. The team has shown a highly efficient offense in early season play.

USC battled Boise State in the second game. Eric Musselman leads the Trojans in his second season. Leon Rice coaches the experienced Broncos squad.

The late games featured Arizona State versus Texas. Washington State also made its tournament debut against host Chaminade. The Silverswords are famous for their historic 1982 upset of Virginia.

Historical Significance and Championship Pedigree

The Maui Invitational carries immense weight in college basketball. Five past champions have gone on to win national titles.

Last year’s champion, Auburn, reached the Final Four. Purdue won the 2023 event and advanced to the national championship game.

This tournament significantly impacts NCAA Tournament seeding. Teams that perform well in Maui often secure better positions in March.

According to tournament records, participants own 73 of the 84 NCAA national championships. The competition level remains consistently elite year after year.

Broadcast Schedule and Viewing Details

All twelve tournament games are televised nationally. ESPN networks are carrying the complete event coverage.

The championship game airs Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. EST on ESPN. Consolation and placement games follow throughout the day.

Fans can stream every contest through the ESPN app. The tournament rotates between ESPNU, ESPN2, and ESPN based on game importance.

This year’s field represents one of the strongest in recent memory. Every game promises high-level basketball action.

Championship Contenders and Team Analysis

NC State entered as the slight betting favorite. The Wolfpack’s high-powered offense averages over 100 points per game.

Texas presents a formidable challenge under coach Sean Miller. He previously won this tournament with Arizona in 2014.

USC brings tournament experience under Eric Musselman. The coach knows these islands well from his previous tenures.

Dark horse candidates like Seton Hall could surprise everyone. The tournament often produces unexpected results and breakout performances.

The Maui Invitational provides the first true test for these elite programs. Winning in paradise often signals greater achievements ahead in March.

Info at your fingertips

What time is the Maui Invitational championship game?

The championship game tips off Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time. It will be broadcast live on ESPN. All games are available for streaming on the ESPN app.

Which team is favored to win the tournament?

NC State entered as the highest-ranked team and slight favorite. Texas and USC are also considered strong championship contenders. The field features several teams capable of winning the title.

How many teams participate in the Maui Invitational?

Eight teams compete in the traditional tournament format. The event uses a standard bracket system with winners and consolation games. Every team plays three games regardless of results.

Why is the Maui Invitational so important for teams?

The tournament provides early-season tests against quality opponents. Strong performances can improve NCAA Tournament seeding later. Past champions often achieve deep March Madness runs.

Has Chaminade ever won the Maui Invitational?

Chaminade has never won its home tournament as a Division II host. The Silverswords are most famous for their 1982 upset of top-ranked Virginia. That legendary victory actually inspired creation of the tournament.

Which networks are broadcasting the games?

ESPN networks are carrying all tournament games. Coverage rotates between ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU throughout the event. Every game is available for streaming on the ESPN app.