March 14, 2004

Log on to www.nit.org for a complete printable bracket.

Columbia, Mo. - The University of Missouri Men's Basketball squad (16-13 overall, 9-7 Big 12) will face the Michigan Wolverines in Ann Arbor, Mich., on Tuesday night in the opening round of the National Invitation Tournament on ESPN. Tip is set for 9 p.m. EST. The Tigers have won seven of their last 10 contests and will face their fourth opponent from the Big 10 this season when the face off with the Wolverines (Illinois, Iowa and Indiana).

This will be sixth time the Tigers have played in the NIT in school history and the fifth meeting all-time between Michigan and Missouri with the Wolverines holding a 3-1 advantage in the series. However, the two squads have not faced each other since 1976. The Tigers have qualified for post-season play in each of the last seven years and will be competing in NIT for the first time since 1998.

Ticket prices are $15 for lower level, $10 and $5 for upper level, and $5 for students and are available for purchase online at MGoBlue.com or at the Michigan Ticket Office. For any further ticket information, call 734-764-0247.

If the Tigers advance, they will face the winner of the Oklahoma vs. LSU matchup. The Sooners take on LSU, Wednesday, (March 17) at 9:30 p.m. on ESPN. Second round games will be played from Mar. 20-23 and dates, times and sites will be announced following the completion of the first round. Tiger fans interested in purchasing tickets for ensuing round of the tournament should Mizzou advance and host a home game, can contact the MU ticket office at (573) 884-PAWS or 884-PAWS in mid-Missouri. For more information on Mizzou Athletics, log on to www.mutigers.com.