2025 March Madness Winner - Alabama's Grant Nelson (4) dunks the ball in front of Duke's Cooper Flagg (2) in the first half of an Elite Eight round NCAA college basketball tournament game Saturday, March 29, 2025, in Buffalo, N.Y. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
2025 March Madness Winner: As the 2025 NCAA Tournament races toward the Final Four, basketball fans are in for an epic Sunday of Elite Eight matchups. Two teams have already punched their tickets to San Antonio, and now four more battle for the remaining spots in what’s been one of the most intense and top-heavy tournaments in recent memory.
With No. 1 vs No. 2 seed matchups on deck, the action is about to hit its peak. Here’s a full breakdown of the games, betting odds, key players, and 2025 March Madness predictions from our expert panel.
This is a showdown between two of the best defensive units in college basketball. Both Houston and Tennessee have dominated opponents all tournament long. Sunday will be a true test of toughness, coaching, and composure under pressure.
Houston boasts one of the stingiest defenses in the country. Their ability to shut down lanes, force turnovers, and control the boards has fueled their run through the Midwest. After surviving a scare against Purdue in the Sweet 16, they’ve shown they can hold their nerve in close games.
On offense, Houston isn’t flashy but extremely efficient. Their methodical pace and well-executed half-court sets often wear down opponents. They’ll look to control tempo and limit transition buckets from Tennessee.
Tennessee is red-hot. Their Friday win over Kentucky was a statement—aggressive, dominant, and deeply physical. The Volunteers’ senior guards—Zakai Zeigler, Chaz Lanier, and Jordan Gainey—have been sensational, combining for 51 points in that game.
More importantly, Tennessee’s defense has held opponents to season lows, and their offense is finally finding rhythm at the perfect time. They’re playing with confidence, fueled by the chance to reach the first Final Four in school history.
While Houston remains a slight favorite, Tennessee is a live underdog with a real shot to win outright. Their recent form and hunger give them the edge in this matchup. Look for the Volunteers to stay within the number—or pull off the upset.
This matchup brings power, tradition, and massive expectations. Auburn is the SEC champion and has rolled through the bracket with authority. Michigan State, led by legendary coach Tom Izzo, is back in the Elite Eight after a gritty tournament run.
Auburn’s offense has looked nearly unstoppable. Tahaad Pettiford has become a breakout star, torching defenses with his speed, creativity, and fearless shot selection. The Tigers have a deep bench, elite athletes, and a loud fan base backing them in Atlanta.
Their defense isn’t too shabby either. Auburn forces mistakes, plays aggressive perimeter D, and thrives off fast-break scoring. If they get hot early, it could be tough for Michigan State to recover.
Michigan State has clawed their way to this point behind defense, toughness, and composure. Jase Richardson has shown flashes of brilliance, while veterans are stepping up in big moments. The Spartans rally from behind better than most teams in the country.
This team may not have the flash of Auburn, but they make smart decisions, execute under pressure, and take advantage of opponents’ lapses. If they can slow the pace and turn the game into a half-court grind, they’ve got a real shot.
Despite being the underdog, Michigan State’s balance and experience make them dangerous. The Spartans have a real chance to win outright. Expect a close, physical game—and don’t be surprised if Michigan State punches their Final Four ticket.
Houston vs. Tennessee
Auburn vs. Michigan State
Note: Odds are consensus from major sportsbooks and subject to change.
Both matchups feature standout backcourts. Tennessee’s trio of Zeigler, Lanier, and Gainey are as clutch as they come. Auburn’s Pettiford is quickly becoming one of the most electrifying players of the tournament. Michigan State’s Richardson is proving he can carry the load.
All four teams are elite defensively. Expect intense ball pressure, blocked shots, and tough rebounding battles. Games could stay under the total due to how strong these defenses are—especially in the Houston vs. Tennessee game.
Kelvin Sampson, Rick Barnes, Bruce Pearl, and Tom Izzo—four of the best minds in the game. Each coach has experience deep in the tournament and knows how to make in-game adjustments. The strategic side of these matchups might be just as exciting as the on-court action.
For Tennessee, this would be a historic milestone. For Houston, it’s about reestablishing national dominance. Auburn wants to prove its 2019 run wasn’t a fluke. And Michigan State? They’re chasing their ninth Final Four under Izzo.
2025 March Madness Winner. The 2025 NCAA Tournament has given fans everything—buzzer-beaters, bracket busters, and now, a heavy-hitting Elite Eight featuring top seeds and legendary programs. Sunday’s matchups are loaded with talent, storylines, and Final Four dreams on the line.
Whether you’re betting, cheering, or just watching for the thrill, these games are can’t-miss. Our final 2025 March Madness predictions: both underdogs are live, the spreads are tight, and the Final Four is about to get even more interesting.
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