March Madness 2025: Expert Predictions and Bracket Insights

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The 2025 NCAA Tournament kicks off today, showcasing 16 first-round matchups across four regions, sparking excitement and speculation among basketball fans and analysts alike. With a plethora of teams vying for the championship, ‘March Madness’ has officially begun.

This year’s tournament features 68 teams, with the SEC setting a record by securing 14 spots. Among the highlights, Florida earned a No. 1 seed in the West Region. The Athletic surveyed its writers and editors for their expert predictions and insights on potential upsets as the tournament unfolds.

Consensus opinions suggest that while many voters lean towards established favorites, a range of underdogs could disrupt brackets. The full responses from 24 staff members revealed that the majority expect top teams like Florida, Duke, and Houston to advance, but there’s notable interest in possible lower seeds upsetting higher-ranked opponents.

Florida is a popular first-round pick, with all 24 respondents predicting the Gators will defeat Norfolk State in Raleigh, North Carolina. Additionally, teams like UConn, Gonzaga, and Louisville are favored to win their initial matchups, reflecting confidence in No. 8 seeds outperforming their competition.

Despite the typical uncertainty surrounding 8/9 matchups, analysts expressed heightened faith in UConn, with 21 votes favoring them over Oklahoma. Gonzaga and Louisville also garnered 20 votes each to win their first-round contests against Georgia and Creighton, respectively. Miami and the SEC’s own Alabama are also expected to succeed, with Alabama receiving 21 votes.

In terms of potential upsets, 17 of 24 staffers believe that Colorado State, a No. 12 seed, will triumph over Memphis. Analyst Justin Williams underscored Colorado State’s impressive run into the tournament, noting their recent success and balanced offensive play led by standout performances.

Montana’s No. 13 seed has piqued interest as well, particularly in light of Wisconsin’s recent struggles, with Eric Single advocating for the Grizzlies over the Badgers. The early Thursday tipoff for their matchup is brimming with narrative intensity as both teams look to seize momentum early in the tournament.

As discussions continue about potential Cinderellas in the tournament, analysts highlighted Drake and VCU as teams capable of making significant strides. Both teams have garnered attention as double-digit seed potential “bracket busters,” with notable recent performances paving their paths to success.

Predictions abound regarding teams likely to make it to the Final Four, with Duke leading the pack in votes. With a strong roster and coaching strategy under Jon Scheyer, they appear to have found their rhythm at the right moment. Florida and Michigan State are also drawing admiration as solid contenders.

The opening day of games promises excitement, uncertainty, and plenty of action for fans. As the tournament progresses, analysts and fans alike will continue to dissect matchups and strategies, hoping their brackets hold up against the inevitable madness of March.

For those looking to engage with the tournament both through viewership and participation, brackets and betting options abound. The Athletic encourages fans to remain engaged throughout the tournament as the storylines develop.

Whether it’s predicting champions or enjoying the unpredictable nature of individual matchups, March Madness is an experience that captures the hearts and minds of basketball fans around the nation.