Three teams, including Auburn, are predicted to win the NCAA Tournament.

As the 2025 NCAA Tournament draws near, the anticipation surrounding college basketball is at an all-time high. Every March, the tournament delivers some of the most exciting and unpredictable moments in sports, with 68 teams vying for the coveted national championship. This season, three teams stand out as the most likely candidates to make a deep run and potentially take home the title. Auburn, along with two other powerhouse programs, has emerged as one of the favorites to win the NCAA Tournament. These teams have the right combination of talent, experience, coaching, and momentum to go all the way, and the stage is set for a thrilling tournament.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Auburn, along with two other programs that have been predicted to win the NCAA Tournament in 2025. We will explore what makes each of these teams a championship contender, analyze their key players, and examine how they stack up against each other and the rest of the field. From the explosive scoring and all-around play of Auburn’s Johni Broome to the depth and coaching pedigree of other teams, the 2025 NCAA Tournament is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.

Auburn Tigers: A Complete Package Led by Johni Broome

After a somewhat tumultuous start to the 2025 season, the Auburn Tigers have emerged as one of the most dangerous teams in college basketball. Led by Johni Broome, the Tigers are a balanced, athletic, and tough team that can go toe-to-toe with anyone. Their combination of strong defense, efficient offense, and a superstar player in Broome has made them one of the favorites to win the national championship this season.

Key Players

• Johni Broome: The Tigers’ star, Johni Broome, has been playing at an incredibly high level this season, and his leadership on both ends of the court has been crucial to Auburn’s success. Broome’s scoring, rebounding, and ability to defend multiple positions make him a complete player capable of impacting any game. His all-around versatility has made him one of the most dominant players in the SEC and one of the most respected players in college basketball.
• Allen Flanigan: Another critical player for Auburn is Allen Flanigan, a senior guard who has experience in high-pressure games. Flanigan provides scoring, leadership, and clutch play when Auburn needs it most. His perimeter shooting, playmaking ability, and defensive tenacity make him a key contributor for the Tigers.
• Chris Moore and Trey Alexander: Along with Broome and Flanigan, Chris Moore and Trey Alexander add additional depth to the Tigers’ lineup. Moore has proven to be a solid all-around player, contributing offensively and defensively, while Alexander’s shooting ability can stretch defenses and open up lanes for other players.

Team Strengths

Auburn’s biggest strength this season lies in its ability to dominate on both ends of the floor. Their defense, spearheaded by Broome and the team’s length and athleticism, is among the best in the nation. Auburn is particularly strong at defending the perimeter and contesting shots, making it difficult for opponents to score efficiently. Broome’s ability to guard multiple positions and act as a rim protector adds an additional layer of toughness for Auburn’s defense.

On the offensive side of the ball, Auburn has been efficient and versatile. With Broome as the centerpiece, the Tigers have the ability to attack both inside and out. Broome’s playmaking and leadership allow the Tigers to get easy looks, while his scoring ability keeps opposing defenses on their toes. With shooters like Flanigan and Alexander on the floor, Auburn has the spacing necessary to make it difficult for defenses to key in on Broome.

Moreover, Auburn’s unselfish style of play, where the ball moves fluidly around the floor, has created one of the most potent offenses in the SEC. The Tigers are not reliant on one or two players to score but instead use a well-rounded offensive system that can put up points in a variety of ways.

Why Auburn Can Win the Title

With a complete roster and a superstar in Broome, Auburn has everything needed to win the NCAA Tournament. The team is talented, deep, and has experience in big games. Additionally, Coach Bruce Pearl’s leadership has been instrumental in developing a system that maximizes the strengths of his players. The Tigers have been able to beat top-tier teams throughout the regular season, and with their blend of talent, defense, and coaching, they are primed for a deep tournament run.

As long as Broome stays healthy and plays at an elite level, Auburn’s chances of capturing the national title are as good as any team in the country. Their defense will be key in neutralizing opponents, and their balanced scoring attack will give them the flexibility needed to thrive in the tournament’s high-pressure games.

Duke Blue Devils: A Perennial Power Under Jon Scheyer

Another team widely predicted to contend for the national championship in 2025 is the Duke Blue Devils. Under the leadership of first-year head coach Jon Scheyer, Duke has reloaded with a talented roster and is once again one of the top teams in college basketball. Known for their incredible recruiting and rich history, the Blue Devils are a constant force in the NCAA Tournament, and 2025 is no exception.

Key Players

• Kyle Filipowski: Duke’s star player, Kyle Filipowski, has been a dominant force on both ends of the floor. The 7-footer has been a versatile big man for the Blue Devils, contributing significantly in scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking. Filipowski’s ability to stretch the floor and finish around the rim makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.
• Tyrese Proctor: Freshman guard Tyrese Proctor has been another standout for Duke this season. Proctor’s playmaking ability, ball handling, and basketball IQ have made him one of the most highly regarded young players in the country. His ability to run the offense and create opportunities for teammates will be crucial in tournament play.
• Mark Mitchell: Duke’s Mark Mitchell has been solid on both ends of the floor, providing scoring and defense for the Blue Devils. His athleticism and ability to guard multiple positions make him an important piece for Coach Scheyer’s squad.

Team Strengths

Duke’s biggest strength is its frontcourt depth, which is anchored by Filipowski. The Blue Devils’ size and athleticism give them an edge over many of their competitors, and they have one of the most formidable interior defenses in the country. In addition to Filipowski, Duke boasts other tall, athletic players capable of dominating the paint, making it difficult for opponents to score in the post.

Duke is also a well-rounded offensive team, with excellent ball movement, spacing, and shooting. Their perimeter shooting has improved over the course of the season, and they are dangerous in transition. Proctor’s playmaking allows the Blue Devils to run an efficient offense, and their depth ensures that they can keep up the pressure throughout the game.

Why Duke Can Win the Title

Duke has everything it takes to make a run for the national championship. Their combination of size, skill, and depth makes them a tough team to beat in March. The Blue Devils also have a wealth of experience in tournament play, with many players having gone through the grind of a rigorous ACC schedule and the high-stakes environment of the NCAA Tournament. With Filipowski leading the charge and a young, talented roster behind him, Duke is a team that can go all the way.

Kansas Jayhawks: Defending Champions Looking to Repeat

The Kansas Jayhawks come into the 2025 NCAA Tournament as defending national champions, and their goal is to repeat their success from the previous year. Led by coach Bill Self, Kansas has the pedigree, experience, and talent to once again lift the trophy at the end of March Madness.

Key Players

• Jalen Wilson: Jalen Wilson has been Kansas’ most consistent and dynamic player this season. The versatile forward has the ability to score from anywhere on the floor and has been a force on the glass. His leadership and playmaking make him the focal point of Kansas’ offense.
• Grady Dick: Freshman guard Grady Dick has emerged as one of the top players in the country this season. Dick’s shooting ability and scoring versatility have made him a dangerous weapon for Kansas. His ability to hit clutch shots will be key in close tournament games.
• K.J. Adams: K.J. Adams, Kansas’ athletic forward, provides a significant defensive presence and can contribute in a variety of ways offensively. His energy and toughness are assets that will be important in the high-pressure environment of the NCAA Tournament.

Team Strengths

Kansas is a balanced team with a wealth of offensive weapons, and their defense is one of the best in the country. The Jayhawks are known for their gritty, hard-nosed style of play, and their ability to lock down on defense makes them a tough team to face in tournament play. With players like Wilson and Dick capable of scoring in a variety of ways, Kansas has the offensive firepower needed to win the tournament.

Why Kansas Can Win the Title

Kansas is the defending champion for a reason. Their combination of championship experience, talent, and depth makes them a strong contender to repeat. With Self at the helm and a roster full of players who have proven they can perform under pressure, Kansas has the tools necessary to cut down the nets once again.