The Buffalo Bulls rejects a CBI bid

After falling in the MAC quarterfinals, and lacking a NIT at large worthy resume, all eyes started to look at the other “also ran” post season basketball tournaments.

While many pan these tournaments, as they would lower tier bowls, it’s important to understand that the extra practice afforded and the experience can often be part of a programs development for the following season.

One of those tournaments is “The College Basketball Invitational” or (CBI) tournament. It was created in 2007 by The Gazelle Group.

Tonight, I’m hearing, the Bulls rejected a bid to compete in the CBI tournament.

The CBI selects 16 teams that are not selected for the NCAA Tournament or the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). The tournament is single elimination, until the final two teams are determined, and then the championship is determined by a best two-out-of-three format.

Buffalo last took part in the CBI in 2009, when Reggie Witherspoon led the Bulls against Wichita State. UB fell 84-73.

Rejecting the bid is not a huge surprise. Buffalo has rejected post season bids in the past. Because these events tend to be money losers for the schools involved, many schools reject these tournaments.

UB has decided to target their money at other areas of need. Deciding that the travel for games, or the money needed to buy home games could not be recouped and thus better applied elsewhere.

With the rejection the season is over and Nate Oats can start preparing for next year, as he tries to get UB back to the NCAA tournament.