NIT : New Mexico Beats Hawaii, Gains Semifinals

Luc Longley and Kurt Miller each scored 19 points as New Mexico ended its National Invitation Tournament quarterfinal-round drought with an 80-58 victory over Hawaii on Friday night.

The Lobos, who lost at home in the quarterfinals the past two years, advanced to Monday’s semifinal round in New York. New Mexico (20-12) will face St. Louis (20-11) with Vanderbilt (19-14) playing Penn State (24-8) in the other semifinal.

Longley, the 7-2 Olympian from Australia, hit eight of 10 shots and blocked seven shots. Miller was nine of 14 and pulled down 11 rebounds.

The Lobos, in control after the opening four minutes, made 10 of their first 14 shots in the second half to widen a 37-32 lead into a 59-42 advantage. New Mexico shot 62% in the first half and 59% for the game.

Hawaii (25-10) was led by Chris Gaines with 17 points.