2025 March Madness highlights: Duke, Texas Tech, and Florida advance to the Elite Eight.

March Madness has always been a time for underdogs, powerhouse programs, and unforgettable moments. In 2025, the tournament has lived up to its reputation, providing fans with high drama, buzzer-beaters, and fierce competition. As we reach the Elite Eight, three teams—Duke, Texas Tech, and Florida—have emerged as the biggest stories, each with its own remarkable path to this stage.

Duke’s Road to the Elite Eight: A Legacy of Excellence

The Duke Blue Devils have long been a mainstay in the NCAA Tournament, and in 2025, they’ve once again shown why they’re one of college basketball’s most storied programs. Led by head coach Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils have balanced youthful energy with veteran leadership to make their way through the early rounds of March Madness.

Round of 64: Dominating Early Opponents

Duke’s tournament run began in dominant fashion as they faced a lower-seeded opponent in the Round of 64. The Blue Devils came out firing on all cylinders, showcasing their ability to control both ends of the court. With a suffocating defense that neutralized any scoring threats from their opponent, Duke cruised to a 92-61 victory. Freshman star Jalen Howard led the way with 18 points, while senior guard Ryan Mitchell controlled the pace with 8 assists. The victory was a clear message: Duke was here to make a deep run.

Round of 32: A Hard-Fought Battle

The Blue Devils faced a much tougher challenge in the Round of 32, meeting a gritty, athletic squad from the Big Ten. The game was tight from the opening tip, with both teams trading blows. Duke’s defense was once again tested, and while they struggled at times to maintain consistency offensively, they leaned on their depth and experience to survive a late push from their opponents. With under a minute to play, a clutch three-pointer from sophomore guard Cameron Jones gave Duke a four-point lead, and they managed to hold on for an 80-75 win.

Sweet Sixteen: The Blue Blood Showdown

In one of the most anticipated matchups of the Sweet Sixteen, Duke took on their old rivals, the Kentucky Wildcats. It was a battle of blue-blood programs, and the intensity in the arena was palpable. Kentucky’s explosive offense put the Blue Devils on the ropes early, but Duke’s defensive resilience, combined with the leadership of Mitchell and the inside presence of sophomore forward Malik Thompson, proved to be the difference. With the score tied in the final seconds, Thompson grabbed an offensive rebound and put back a layup as time expired to give Duke a thrilling 72-70 victory, sending them to the Elite Eight.

Texas Tech: The Red Raiders Return to Glory

Texas Tech has quickly established itself as one of the premier programs in college basketball, and in 2025, they’ve proven that their run to the national championship game in 2019 was no fluke. Coach Chris Beard’s squad has been a force on both ends of the floor, combining tough defense with explosive offensive firepower.

Round of 64: The Defensive Statement

Texas Tech’s tournament journey began with a defensive showcase against a team known for their up-tempo style. The Red Raiders suffocated their opponents with a full-court press and relentless defense, holding their opposition to just 49 points. Guard Elijah Barnes was particularly instrumental in disrupting passing lanes, recording four steals and finishing with 16 points. Texas Tech cruised to a 75-49 win, sending a strong message that they were back in March Madness.

Round of 32: Overcoming Adversity

In the Round of 32, Texas Tech faced a team that had made a name for itself with a dynamic offense and sharpshooting guards. Despite falling behind by double digits in the first half, the Red Raiders never panicked. They leaned on their defense and the steady play of senior guard Marcus Fields, who chipped in 18 points and 7 assists. Texas Tech gradually chipped away at the lead, and with a stifling defensive effort in the second half, they overcame the deficit and secured a 68-62 victory. The win was a testament to their mental toughness and ability to stay composed in the face of adversity.

Sweet Sixteen: A Clash of Titans

The Sweet Sixteen match between Texas Tech and a high-flying Arizona team was a clash of styles. Arizona’s up-tempo offense was countered by Texas Tech’s methodical pace and defensive prowess. The Red Raiders were led by sophomore forward Brandon Westbrook, whose 21 points and 12 rebounds helped stymie Arizona’s attack. With the game tied in the final minute, Westbrook blocked a potential game-winning shot and then sealed the victory by sinking two clutch free throws. Texas Tech advanced to the Elite Eight with a 74-71 win, and their fans were already dreaming of another deep tournament run.

Florida Gators: The Underdog Rising

Perhaps the most surprising team to make the Elite Eight in 2025 is the Florida Gators. After a rocky regular season, Florida came into the tournament as a lower-seeded team with something to prove. But under head coach Todd Golden, the Gators have proven that they are more than capable of competing with the best in college basketball.

Round of 64: The Upset Special

Florida’s tournament run began with a bang, as they pulled off a stunning upset over a heavily favored Texas squad. The Gators took advantage of a slow start from the Longhorns and seized control early in the game. Sophomore guard Jordan Matthews, who had been inconsistent during the regular season, exploded for 25 points and 9 rebounds. Florida’s relentless defense and ability to execute in the clutch helped them hold on for an 82-77 win, sending shockwaves through the bracket.

Round of 32: Grit and Grind

In the Round of 32, Florida faced another higher-seeded opponent in the form of a well-coached Wisconsin team. The Gators’ defense once again came to the forefront, with freshman forward Dante Harris dominating on the interior. Florida’s offensive execution was patient, and they capitalized on key moments. A clutch three-pointer by senior guard Chris Nelson with just seconds left on the clock gave the Gators a 65-63 victory, and they were one step closer to the Elite Eight.

Sweet Sixteen: Never Count Out the Gators

Florida’s Sweet Sixteen game against the North Carolina Tar Heels was a true test of their mettle. The Gators found themselves down by 15 points in the second half, but their never-say-die attitude shone through. Behind 19 points from Matthews and a superb defensive effort that held UNC to just 35% shooting in the second half, Florida completed an improbable comeback. With a three-pointer from Matthews at the buzzer, the Gators claimed a 72-69 victory, sealing their spot in the Elite Eight.

Looking Ahead: The Elite Eight Showdown

As the Elite Eight approaches, the excitement around Duke, Texas Tech, and Florida is palpable. Each team has faced its own challenges on the road to this stage, but they all share a common trait: resilience.

Duke’s Next Test

Duke will face a tough matchup against a high-powered offense in the Elite Eight. The Blue Devils will need to continue playing lock-down defense and get key contributions from their depth. If Mitchell and Thompson can continue their strong performances, Duke could be primed for a deep run into the Final Four.

Texas Tech’s Defense to the Rescue

Texas Tech’s defense has been the cornerstone of their success, and in the Elite Eight, they will look to suffocate another potent offensive team. With Fields and Westbrook leading the charge, Texas Tech will need to stay disciplined and capitalize on any offensive opportunities that come their way. If they can maintain their defensive identity, they will be a tough team to beat.

Florida: The Cinderella Story

As the underdogs, Florida has defied expectations at every turn. Their scrappy play and determination have made them the story of the tournament, and in the Elite Eight, they will face yet another formidable opponent. If Matthews and Harris continue to shine, Florida could pull off another upset and make a run for the Final Four.