Per David Cloninger, it's in the realm of possibility.
www.postandcourier.com
It would be the most Gamecock thing ever for this team to fall *** backwards into the NIT after having a historically bad season and then actually go on some kind of run and come away with a trophy for a season that no fan wants to remember.

Postpone the funeral: Gamecocks' season may not be over after all
South Carolina's men's basketball season may not be over after all, due to the strength of the SEC this year. An NIT bid is possible, and USC would accept.
It would be the most Gamecock thing ever for this team to fall *** backwards into the NIT after having a historically bad season and then actually go on some kind of run and come away with a trophy for a season that no fan wants to remember.