By Kevin Sweeney

With 7 games in total tonight in the NIT, here’s a look at some of the results from today’s first round action. 

Wagner Upsets Saint Bonaventure

Wagner advanced to the second round of the tournament with a win over #1 seed Saint Bonaventure. They ran out to an early lead despite dueling a sellout Bonaventure crowd, as they led 40-26 at half. The Bonnies refused to go down without a fight, pushing back the entire second half to cut the deficit to 2 points with just 2:36 to go. Then, the Seahawks made a strong closing push to take control. Romone Saunders knocked down a dagger 3 to stretch the Wagner lead back to 5. The Seahawk defense did their job, and Wagner was able to hold on for a 79-75 win. They will take on Creighton next. 

Monmouth Advances With Hard-Fought Win Over Bucknell

Justin Robinson had 23 points to lead the way as Monmouth fought off a pesky Bucknell squad to earn a second round appearance in the NIT. With Monmouth coming off the disappointment of being snubbed from the NCAA Tournament, there were questions as to what mentality the Hawks would have coming in. Monmouth seemed energized and excited to be playing, but still had to beat a tough Bucknell squad. The pesky Bison challenged the Hawks, trailing by just 6 at halftime. They continued to stick with Monmouth, but going down the stretch, Monmouth pulled away. They went on a 13-5 run to stretch their lead to 14 and seal the deal. They advance to play the winner of Hofstra and George Washington.