Chattanooga Wins First SoCon NIT Title, Defeats UC Irvine 85-84

Chattanooga Mocs clinched the 2025 NIT championship with a thrilling 85-84 overtime victory against UC Irvine, marking the first title for the Southern Conference team. The Mocs, led by Collin Mulholland and Trey Bonham, who each scored 19 points, made a remarkable run to the final, tying their program record for wins in a season at 29. Garrison Keeslar's go-ahead jumper with 11 seconds left in overtime proved decisive, while UC Irvine's Bent Leuchten missed crucial free throws and a layup in the final seconds that could have clinched the game for them. The game was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging leads and high-pressure moments throughout. UC Irvine, finishing the season at 32-7, also made history by reaching its first NIT championship game. This victory highlights Chattanooga's impressive season and solidifies its place in tournament history.