Marshall Basketball: Herd loses NIT opener at MTSU 86-78

Some things don't change, even after 24 years. Much like it's last NIT appearance in 1988 Marshall lost in the first round Tuesday night, suffering a 86-78 defeat at Middle Tennessee State. 

With the loss three Marshall seniors ended their collegiate careers, guards Damier Pitts, Dago Pena, and Shaquille Johnson. Pitt's lead all scorers with 19 points while junior forward Dennis Tinnon chipped in 18. 

Marshall had trouble containing Sun Belt Conference player of the year LaRon Dendy all night as he scored 18 points and earned 11 foul shots. 

For more on tonight's game follow these links:

1) Box score.

2) Game re-cap via the Herald Dispatch.