Win NIT or Lose NCAA Tournament Opener?

It’s been hard to think of things to write about when it comes to the Nebraska Cornhuskers at this time of year (although someone tells me Spring Football is right around the corner baby!)

After all, it’s March Madness baby! A fantastic time of year for any sports fan, but not one that our Huskers compete in regularly. In fact, it has been since 1998 since they last participated.

But I did have a question pop into my head the other day, that serves as a good hypothetical for Nebraska fans.

Would you rather see your basketball team earn the last entry into the NCAA Tournament and get spanked in their opening round matchup OR see your team win the NIT Tournament?

On one hand, you’re in the NCAA Tournament, which is every team’s goal heading into every College Basketball season. Even if you’re not a real threat to win it all, you’re still playing with the big boys at the highest level, to which there is something to be said.

On the other hand, you’re playing in the NIT. It is the minor leagues, yes. You get mocked somewhat for winning it, let alone losing in it. However, you get your team valuable winning experience, which is rare in the calendar month of March. 67 of the 68 teams in the NCAA Tournament will end their season with a loss. As do 31 of the 32 teams in the NIT.

The hypothetical that I am architecting would conclude with your team on top of a 32 team tournament. They would make their way to Madison Square Garden (best basketball venue in the world)  for the NIT Final Four. They would win five games in a row against evenly matched competition. It might register on Charlie Sheen’s “winning” radar.

This kind of momentum could carry over into the next season, especially if you’re a sophomoric-type team.

If it sounds like I’m arguing heavier in favor of winning the NIT crown, it’s because I think most people’s automatic response to the question would be the NCAA Tournament. I’m simply playing Devil’s advocate with hopes of creating a good discussion.

Again, I want to reiterate that your not simply deciding between accepting an invitation to either tournament. I am offering up a known-result-debate about getting blown out as a 12 seed in the NCAA Tournament or winning the NIT Championship.

I would rather see my team win the NIT, but would love to hear from anybody else on the matter, even if it’s just what your answer to the question with no explanation.