Belmont dismisses NIT consideration after coach's departure

Field Level Media|published: 03/14/2026, 1:48pm EDT

Belmont head coach Casey Alexander yells at his players during the second half of a first round NIT basketball game against Vanderbilt at Memorial Gymnasium Tuesday, March 15, 2022 in Nashville, Tenn. Nas Vandy Belmont Nit 016

Belmont has opted against participating in the NIT, the university announced on Saturday, one day after long-time head coach Casey Alexander agreed to a five-year contract with Kansas State.

Alexander, 53, coached his alma mater for the past seven seasons.

He led Belmont to a 26-6 record this season en route to capturing the 2026 Missouri Valley Conference championship in the regular season. The Bruins fell to Drake in the conference tournament.

"In light of recent developments, Belmont University men's basketball has elected not to participate in the Postseason NIT," Belmont said in a statement. "We appreciate the meaningful dialogue and consideration postseason tournament committees have extended Belmont throughout the year."

--Field Level Media