Ducks Move On In NIT Tournament

Eugene, Ore. — Oregon Ducks Men’s Basketball Team have secured their spot in the NIT quarterfinals after a comfortable 68-54 victory over Central Florida on Sunday. This victory marked their second win in the tournament and secured them another home game against Wisconsin on Tuesday.

The game was played in front of a crowd of 3,019 fans at the Matthew Knight Arena. The Ducks led from the middle of the first half until the end of the game, and their big men had their way in the paint. Nate Bittle, the freshman forward, was particularly impressive with a career-high 21 points plus 13 rebounds.

The UCF Knights tried to make a comeback early in the second half, but the Ducks’ momentum from the late run in the first half carried over, and they put together a 12-0 run early in the second half to lead 47-26. Despite the Knights’ increased defensive pressure, the Ducks held on to the lead, never letting it drop to less than 13 points.

Oregon coach Dana Altman praised his team’s defensive effort, particularly Quincy Guerrier, who did a tremendous job taking on Taylor Hendricks, the Knights’ leading scorer and rebounder. Altman also expressed his gratitude to the fans who came out to support the team on Sunday and urged them to come back for their next game against Wisconsin.

The Ducks played without two of their key players, post N’Faly Dante and guard Jermaine Couisnard, who continue to rehab injuries. Altman confirmed that they will play if cleared medically.

Oregon’s next game against Wisconsin will take place on Tuesday at 6 p.m. on ESPN.