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The Student News Site of Middle Tennessee State University

MTSU Sidelines
The Student News Site of Middle Tennessee State University

MTSU Sidelines
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MTSU women’s basketball qualifies for the WNIT

The Lady Raiders earned a first-round bye and await to find out their opponent.
Jacob Burgess, Co-sports editor • March 16, 2026
Ephraim Rodenbach
MTSU guard Alayna Contreras during starter introductions before a game against Missouri State in the Conference USA quarterfinal game against Missouri State inside Propst Arena on March 12, 2026.

MTSU women’s basketball season is not over, as the Lady Raiders qualified for the Women’s National Invitational Tournament.  

The Lady Raiders earned a first-round bye and play the winner of St. Bonaventure University and Drexel University between March 22 and March 24.  

 

The WNIT released the field last night with common opponents for Middle Tennessee. Fellow Conference USA members, Florida International University and Sam Houston State University made the bracket.  

University of Southern Indiana, who beat MTSU this past season, made the tournament on the other side of the bracket.  

To contact the sports editor, email [email protected].

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About the Contributors
Jacob Burgess
Jacob Burgess, Co-Sports Editor
I cover anything and everything when it comes to middle Tennessee sports. I’m majoring in sports media and work with multiple student media organizations. When outside of school, I like to cook for friends and family and bike around town. 
Ephraim Rodenbach
Ephraim Rodenbach, Co-Sports Editor
I am a junior graduating in fall 2027 with a degree in sports journalism with a double minor in mass communication and sports management. I’m the biggest Diego Pavia fan you’ll ever meet and an extremely passionate Nashville Predators fan. During my free time, I enjoy taking pictures, cooking, working out and hiking!
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MTSU women’s basketball qualifies for the WNIT