Seattle University men’s basketball team lost 91-85 to Auburn in the second round of the National Invitation Tournament at Neville Arena, according to a March 22 announcement.
The game marked the end of Seattle U’s 2025-26 season. The Redhawks finished with a record of 21 wins and 14 losses. Despite one of their most efficient offensive performances, shooting over 51 percent from both the field and three-point range, they were unable to overcome Auburn’s advantage in rebounding and free throws.
Brayden Maldonado led Seattle U with a game-high 25 points, including seven three-pointers and five assists. Junseok Yeo contributed 13 points and six rebounds, while John Christofilis added 13 points off the bench. Will Heimbrodt recorded 12 points, four assists, and four blocks. Maleek Arington closed out his collegiate career with eight points, four assists, and four steals.
Auburn took control midway through the first half with an 11-0 run and led by double digits at halftime. The Tigers extended their lead to as many as sixteen early in the second half before Seattle U responded with strong outside shooting. The Redhawks made twelve three-pointers after halftime and shot over sixty-two percent from the field in the second half.
Late in the game, back-to-back three-pointers by Jojo Murphy and Maldonado brought Seattle U within four points in the final seconds. However, Auburn secured its win at the free throw line. Kevin Overton led Auburn with twenty-three points while Elyjah Freeman scored nineteen. Auburn also held a significant rebounding edge.
This was Seattle U’s sixth ever game against a member of the Southeastern Conference.
