Carton Gives Credit to Auburn for Winning the NIT Championship

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From The Craig Carton Show

Craig Carton Criticizes Notre Dame and Seton Hall's Withdrawal from Postseason Play

Craig Carton expressed strong criticism toward Notre Dame football and Seton Hall basketball for deciding not to participate in postseason games after missing out on their main championship tournaments. He highlighted the contrast with Auburn’s basketball team, which chose to compete in the NIT despite not qualifying for the NCAA March Madness.

Carton was particularly vocal about Notre Dame football’s decision to not participate in a bowl game against BYU, labeling the decision as a missed opportunity for a potentially great game. He similarly reproached Seton Hall basketball after the team, led by Coach Holloway and having won more than 20 games that season, also chose not to extend their season when they felt they had been unfairly excluded from a major tournament.

On the other hand, Carton praised Auburn basketball for their willingness to compete in the NIT, despite everyone agreeing they had not earned a spot in March Madness. He commended Coach Bruce Pearl and the Auburn players for seizing the opportunity to play more games, ultimately proving their capability by winning the NIT championship. Carton acknowledged the significance of competition and the importance of not shying away from opportunities to compete, even if the stakes were not as high as they had hoped.

Carton also touched on the broader implications of such decisions, suggesting that competing regardless of the circumstances gives players valuable experiences and tangible rewards they can appreciate in the future. He concluded by recognizing the Auburn Tigers for their resolve and ability to “retire as champions” in the face of adversity.