Who is Duke basketball’s next opponent in the NCAA Tournament in 2025? Update on the final Four brackets
The 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is shaping up to be another thrilling chapter in the storied history of March Madness. As of the latest reports, Duke Basketball has made its way into the Final Four. The Blue Devils, with their deep and talented roster, are poised for a potential national championship run. So, who is their next opponent, and what does the bracket look like heading into the Final Four? Let’s break it down.
Duke’s Tournament Journey
The Duke Blue Devils have long been a powerhouse in NCAA basketball, with a rich tradition of success under the guidance of legendary coaches like Mike Krzyzewski. In 2025, Coach Jon Scheyer, who took over from Coach K, has continued the program’s legacy of excellence. His first few years at the helm have been marked by impressive recruiting and a commitment to playing a fast-paced, up-tempo style of basketball. With standout freshmen, including Cooper Flagg, Duke has emerged as a strong contender for the 2025 national title.
Duke’s tournament journey began with a commanding win in the opening round against a lesser opponent. They breezed through their initial games, dispatching their lower-seeded challengers with ease. However, as the competition grew stiffer in the subsequent rounds, Duke was forced to dig deep and showcase its depth, resilience, and versatility.
In the Sweet 16, Duke faced one of the toughest tests of their run. Against a highly-ranked and experienced opponent, they were pushed to the brink but ultimately prevailed. The Blue Devils’ depth and ability to execute under pressure, particularly with Flagg’s standout performances, helped them overcome any challenges in their path. In the Elite Eight, Duke took down a fellow blue-blood program, cementing their place in the Final Four.
Final Four 2025: Who’s Left?
The Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament features four elite teams, each of which has battled through the tournament with both style and grit. Here’s how the bracket looks as we head into the highly anticipated semifinals:
- Duke Blue Devils (East Region Winner)
- Houston Cougars (Midwest Region Winner)
- Florida Gators (South Region Winner)
- Auburn Tigers (West Region Winner)
These four teams have earned their spots through impressive runs, and now, all eyes will be on the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, where the national semifinals and championship game will take place.
Duke’s Next Opponent: The Houston Cougars
Duke’s next opponent in the NCAA Tournament will be the Houston Cougars. Houston, under the leadership of head coach Kelvin Sampson, has been a dominant force in college basketball, known for their tough defense and discipline. The Cougars, much like Duke, have a balanced and deep roster, with veteran leadership and a strong supporting cast of rising stars.
Houston enters this matchup as the No. 1 seed from the Midwest Region and has been one of the most complete teams in the country. Their tournament run has been defined by strong defense, efficient shooting, and the ability to close out games in the clutch. They have faced and defeated some tough opponents in their region, including a narrow victory over Texas in the Elite Eight. Now, with a chance to advance to the national championship, they will square off against the Blue Devils in what promises to be an intense, highly competitive game.
What to Expect in Duke vs. Houston
Duke’s game plan will likely focus on exploiting Houston’s aggressive defense. The Cougars have one of the best defensive units in the country, but they also play a physical style that can sometimes lead to foul trouble. Duke’s potent offense, led by Cooper Flagg, will test Houston’s defensive schemes, especially in transition. Flagg, a highly touted freshman, has already proven himself as a top-tier player, capable of putting up big numbers while also contributing on the defensive end.
On the other hand, Houston’s strength lies in their ability to grind out games, play tough defense, and manage the game’s tempo. They will need to limit Duke’s fast breaks and slow down the game, trying to get Duke to play at their pace. If Houston can disrupt Duke’s rhythm and force them into half-court sets, they will have a better chance of advancing.
Florida Gators vs. Auburn Tigers
The other semifinal matchup features two SEC teams—Florida and Auburn. Florida, under head coach Todd Golden, has been impressive throughout the tournament, showcasing both offensive firepower and a tenacious defense. They will rely on their ability to shoot the ball from the outside and stretch the floor. Florida’s star player, senior guard Riley Kugel, has been lighting up the scoreboard in the tournament and will be a key figure in this matchup.
Auburn, on the other hand, has a balanced attack and a roster filled with both experienced upperclassmen and talented freshmen. Their defense has been suffocating, and their ability to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers will be crucial against Florida’s high-scoring offense. The Tigers’ frontcourt will need to dominate the paint if they want to move past the Gators and reach the championship game.
Final Four Breakdown: Key Players to Watch
As we head into the Final Four, here are some key players to keep an eye on:
- Cooper Flagg (Duke) – The freshman forward has been a revelation for Duke, and his playmaking ability, coupled with his scoring and rebounding, makes him a matchup nightmare. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor will be crucial against Houston.
- L.J. Cryer (Houston) – The senior guard has been the heart and soul of the Cougars’ offense. Cryer’s ability to score in a variety of ways, combined with his leadership, makes him a vital cog in Houston’s push for a national title.
- Riley Kugel (Florida) – Florida’s top scorer has carried the Gators through the tournament, and his perimeter shooting will be essential if Florida is to keep up with Auburn’s defense.
- Johni Broome (Auburn) – The Tigers’ star forward has been dominant in the paint and a force on the boards. If Auburn is to succeed, Broome will need to be a presence inside while also contributing offensively.
What’s at Stake?
The 2025 Final Four is packed with intrigue, and each of these teams is looking to carve out their legacy. For Duke, it’s another chance to add to their illustrious history and claim their sixth national championship. Coach Jon Scheyer, in just his second year at the helm, has the opportunity to put his stamp on the program and continue the legacy that Coach K built.
For Houston, this is a chance to break through and win their first national title in school history. Under the guidance of Coach Kelvin Sampson, the Cougars have become one of the most consistent programs in the country, and they are primed for a deep run in the tournament.
Florida and Auburn, while perhaps seen as underdogs compared to Duke and Houston, are both capable of making noise. Florida’s perimeter shooting and Auburn’s defense give them a legitimate shot at making it to the championship game and potentially pulling off an upset.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the National Championship
As the tournament reaches its final stages, the road to the national championship is filled with anticipation. The winner of the Duke-Houston matchup will face the victor of Florida vs. Auburn in the national championship game on April 7, 2025. Both games promise to be filled with excitement, drama, and plenty of March Madness moments.
For Duke, the goal is clear: secure another title and cement their place as one of the premier programs in college basketball history. However, with the talent and depth of the other three teams, it will be no easy task. The Final Four is always unpredictable, but that’s part of the magic of the tournament.
