Jimmer Fredette Predicts BYU’s March Madness Success Ahead of Tournament

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – As March Madness approaches, former BYU basketball star Jimmer Fredette is confident in the Cougars’ prospects in the NCAA Tournament. The 2011 NCAA National Player of the Year shared his bracket for the 2025 tournament, predicting that BYU will advance to the Sweet 16 before suffering a defeat to No. 2 seed Alabama.

Fredette, who led the last BYU team to the Sweet 16 in 2011, released his predictions on social media on March 18. His insights come as the sixth-seeded Cougars prepare for their opening game against VCU in Denver on March 20. In addition to backing BYU, Fredette also forecasts that the Utah State Aggies will claim a victory over UCLA in the first round, marking their second consecutive tournament win.

If Fredette’s Final Four prediction, which includes Auburn, Florida, Duke, and Houston, materializes, it would set a historic precedent as the second occasion when all four No. 1 seeds reach the tournament’s final weekend. The analyst does not anticipate an upset-heavy bracket, believing the top eight seeds will ultimately progress to the Elite Eight.

“We obviously wanted Denver, just because it’s a little closer to home,” said BYU guard Trevin Knell. “We think, with Denver being pretty close, that we’re going to have a really good show with the crowd.”

During his tenure at BYU from 2007 to 2011, Fredette averaged 18.7 points per game and played a pivotal role in leading the Cougars to a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament his senior year. His performance earned him numerous accolades, including the Naismith Player of the Year award.

In addition to his NCAA success, Fredette has had a professional career since being selected with the 10th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks. He has since played for five NBA teams, including the Sacramento Kings and the New York Knicks.

The Cougars are seeking a much-needed win in the tournament, aiming to end a 14-year drought without a victory in the Round of 64. BYU’s coaching staff believes this is a crucial moment for the program as they strive to reclaim their spot among the nation’s elite.

As excitement fills the air ahead of the Cougars’ initial matchup with VCU, BYU’s open practice on March 19 at Ball Arena invites fans to get a closer look at their preparations. Doors will open at 10 a.m. MDT, with the Cougars practicing from 1:15 to 1:55 p.m.

“It’s going to be a big game for us,” said Knell. “We’re ready to break this streak and make our mark.”

Fans are encouraged to join the teams and share in the atmosphere of tournament preparations as they support their local team hoping for a successful March Madness run. BYU’s game will be broadcast on TNT and KSL NewsRadio, engaging fans as they cheer on the Cougars.