NFL Legend Terrell Owens couldn’t hide his excitement as he stormed the court after Chattanooga’s Historic NIT title win against Irvine. The victory marks Chattanooga’s first NIT title as they tie the program record for most wins in a single season.
No. 1 UC Irvine were favorites to win the NIT title, and Collin Mulholland scored 19 points and made five 3-pointers, but Mocs forward Garrison Keeslar hit the game-winning jump shot with 11 seconds left to complete a shock win and seal the title for Chattanooga. Guard Trey Bonham was named the Most Outstanding Player as he performed on a thrilling 19-point, 10-rebound performance.
Owens Excitement Takes Center Stage
Former NFL wide receiver Owens is a big fan of Chattanooga and was present at the NIT Championship game. Terrell was visibly excited as the Mocs won the NIT title.
He stormed the court to celebrate the victory as Chattanooga defeated Irvine 85-84 on Thursday night to become the first team from the Southern Conference to win the NIT Championship. Owens has a strong connection to the UTC program and has previously expressed his support for the University of Tennessee Chattanooga.
Terrell Owens, a six-time NFL Pro Bowl selection and legend, ran onto the court after the final buzzer sounded to congratulate the team on their achievement. The scene was filled with wild jubilation, and fans, players, and coaches jumped into each other’s art to celebrate the landmark victory.
Chattanooga wins the NIT championship.
So cool to see all the Mocs in Indianapolis enjoying this moment. Looks like a fun party
Terrell Owens celebrates pic.twitter.com/N3CykYjG1o
— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace_) April 4, 2025
Key Moments in the Final
UC Irvine 7-foot-1 center Bent Leuchten went to the free throw line with 31 seconds left in overtime for a chance at a three-point lead, however he missed both free throws. After Keeslar’s make, an entry pass to Leuchten was overthrown, and Chattanooga secured the loose ball before missing two free throws to give the Anteaters another chance.
Social media is currently abuzz with Owens’ celebration,ons, and DraftKings posted on X about Owens’ excitement, saying, “Terrell Owens was fired up as Chattanooga won the NIT. ESPN also posted a video of Owens celebrating the win on their Facebook page, with the caption “CHATTANOOGA FROM HALF-COURT AT THE HALFTIME BUZZER Terrell Owens was loving it”.
KEEP READING: College Basketball Crown vs. NIT: Breaking Down the Key Differences
Chattanooga’s NIT championship win will be a momentous occasion for the university’s basketball program. The Mocs are still basking in the euphoria of their remarkable achievement, and their die-hard fan, Terrell Ow, will continue to cheer them on.
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