USF advances in NIT, San Jose State eliminated

The Bay Area college basketball teams continue to compete in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). On Wednesday night, the University of San Francisco (USF) won their first-round game, while San Jose State fell short in a close match. USF defeated Utah Valley, 79-70. Malik Thomas led the Dons with 21 points and 10 rebounds. This victory marks USF's first postseason win in seven years. They will face Loyola Chicago on Sunday. San Jose State nearly pulled off an upset against Loyola Chicago but lost 73-70. After trailing by 15 points early in the second half, the Spartans made a strong comeback but could not secure the win. Their season ends with a record of 15-20. In addition to USF and San Jose State, three other Bay Area teams are still in the mix. Stanford and Santa Clara both play on Sunday. Stanford's women's team is also in action tonight against Portland in the Women's Basketball Invitational (WBIT). If USF and Stanford win their games, they could meet later in the tournament. Sunday’s matchups include USF facing Loyola Chicago and Stanford taking on Kent State. Santa Clara will also play against the University of Alabama at Birmingham.