NCAA Tournament Bracket Update 2025: Key Teams to Watch This Week

(Editor’s note: This article is part of the Bracket Central series, offering insights into the lead-up to the men’s and women’s NCAA Tournaments, with analysis and picks during the tournaments.)

Key NCAA Tournament Insights: Teams Looking to Shine and Those That Should Rest

As we approach one of the most thrilling times in collegiate sports, the ever-important NCAA Tournament, several teams have solidified their positions, while others continue to vie for their place in the brackets. Notably, Drake has clinched its spot, which eliminates speculation regarding their chances of making the field of 68 without their Missouri Valley Conference tournament win.

Joining Drake in the tournament are Lipscomb, High Point, SIU-Edwardsville, and Omaha, with several conference championships on the horizon. The competition will heat up as teams battle for automatic bids throughout the week, culminating in Selection Sunday and ensuring a dynamic bracket filled with surprises.

Five Teams Poised to Make a Strong Push

1. Florida: Currently projected as a No. 1 seed following an impressive victory against Alabama, Florida aims to maintain this standing to ensure they avoid top contenders like Auburn and Duke.
2. Alabama: With a close race for the top seeds, Alabama is in contention for a coveted No. 1 seed. Their positioning is crucial, especially as the brackets evolve throughout the week.
3. Tennessee: The Volunteers are also in the mix for a high seed. Securing a higher No. 2 seed could greatly affect their path in the tournament, particularly regarding location for the opening rounds.
4. Wisconsin: The Badgers are seeking to regain their confidence after a challenging stretch. Attaining a No. 3 seed remains within reach and is a goal worth pursuing.
5. UConn: The Huskies look to carry their current momentum into the conference tournament. Avoiding the 8/9 matchup is crucial for their success in the NCAA Tournament.

Five Teams That Might Benefit from Resting

1. Auburn: Despite suffering two consecutive losses, Auburn possesses the strongest resume in college basketball as the outright SEC champions. Rather than risking injuries, it may be wise for them to rest key players.
2. Duke: Although they have a chance at the No. 1 overall seed, the potential risks involved this week may outweigh the benefits. With a favorable path already in place, focusing on health could be more beneficial.
3. Michigan State: The Spartans are not expected to drop below a No. 2 seed, making it less essential for them to exert significant effort in their conference tournament.
4. St. John’s: With a strong chance of starting in Providence as a No. 3 seed, St. John’s could use this time to fine-tune their game, rather than pushing hard for a higher seed.
5. Houston: A focused effort on securing at least one win may solidify their No. 1 seed but overexertion risks injuries that could impact their tournament run.

As the week progresses, fans and analysts alike will await fresh bracket updates as teams navigate the intense competition leading up to the tournament. With so much at stake, it is an exhilarating time for college basketball enthusiasts.

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(Photo of Walter Clayton Jr: Matt Pendleton / Imagn Images)