Box Score
No. 1 seed UC Irvine secured a victory over Northern Colorado by a final score of 82-72 at Bren Events Center in Irvine, Calif., on Wednesday as part of the first round of the 2025 National Invitational Tournament (NIT). The game saw UC Irvine overcome a nine-point second half deficit by outscoring Northern Colorado 45-31 in the second half. The Anteaters move on to the second round of the NIT and host Jacksonville State either Saturday or Sunday at the Bren Events Center. 

UC Irvine trailed Northern Colorado 41-37 at the end of 20 minutes. The Anteaters shot 14-for-32 from the field and connected on five-of-15 3-pointers. UCI excelled defensively with five blocks and three steals, while committing only three turnovers in the opening frame. 

UC Irvine outscored Northern Colorado 45-31 in the second half, leading to a 10-point win. The Anteaters showcased their efficiency by shooting 15-for-27 from the field, including five 3-pointers on nine attempts. They also capitalized on free throws, converting 10 of 12 attempts. UCI trailed by nine points, its largest deficit of the game, with 15:50 remaining, but came roaring back using an 18-9 run to tie the game at 60 points apiece with a little under 10 minutes remaining. A tip-in from Bent Leuchten gave the Anteaters the lead for good, 62-60, with eight minutes left. UCI went 6-for-6 from the charity stripe down the stretch to secure the victory. 

Devin Tillis led UC Irvine with 24 points, making 10-of-15 shots, including three 3-pointers. The senior also contributed defensively with two steals and gathered seven rebounds. Bent Leuchten was influential under the basket with a team-high 10 rebounds and added 17 points while blocking three shots. It was the center's 17th double-double of the season. Justin Hohn made a significant impact from beyond the arc with three 3-pointers and also had a team-high five assists. Elijah Chol blocked three shots in the game.