Before 1977, every NIT game (from the very beginning in 1938) was played in Madison Square Garden in New York City. For the first time in 1977, first round games were played on home courts throughout the United States.

The very first game played outside Madison Square Garden was played March 8, 1977 in Omaha, Nebraska between the Illinois State Redbirds and the Creighton Bluejays. Creighton is in Omaha. Home court didn't hold, as Illinois State won 65-58, and advanced to Madison Square Garden.

Of the eight first-round games played on campuses, the home team went 4-4 in 1977.

Anthony Roberts of Oral Roberts scored 65 points in a game 3/9/1977 against Oregon in an opening round game in the 1977 NIT.

Roberts was 25 of 37 from the field, and made 15 of 16 of his free throws. There was no 3-point play in 1977.

Roberts' effort broke George Mikan's 22-year tournament record of 53 points.

Roberts' 65 points weren't enough: Oregon won 90-89 behind Greg Ballard's 43 points.