Apparently VU picks up the costs for the pep band to travel to the conference tourney and, should they make it, NCAA tourney (because the NCAA provides funds). There was no budget for the pep band to travel for the NIT tourney. This is why there is a plea for funds - so the pep band can make the trip.
PS - The band found out about this yesterday (Wednesday)
PS - The band found out about this yesterday (Wednesday)