The NCAA Menโs Basketball Tournament is heating up as we approach the Final Four in 2025. With the UConn Huskies, who clinched back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024, out of the running, a new champion will be crowned this year.
As of April 2, the odds to win the tournament have been released by DraftKings Sportsbook, and the competition is fiercer than ever. This blog post delves into the latest odds, key matchups, and historical context to provide a comprehensive preview of the remaining games.
Final Four Teams and Their Odds
This yearโs Final Four features four powerhouse programs: Duke, Florida, Houston, and Auburn. All four teams entered the tournament as No. 1 seeds, marking only the second time in history that all top seeds have made it this far.
Letโs take a closer look at each teamโs odds and what makes them formidable contenders.
Duke Blue Devils
Odds to Win: +100 (Bet $10 to win $20 total)
The Duke Blue Devils are the favorites to win the championship. Known for their strong defense and efficient offense, Duke has consistently performed well throughout the season.
Their balanced roster and experienced coaching staff make them a formidable opponent.
Florida Gators
Odds to Win: +300 (Bet $10 to win $40 total)
The Florida Gators have also had an impressive run, opening as a 2.5-point favorite over Auburn in the semifinals.
Floridaโs depth and versatility on both ends of the court have been crucial to their success. They are well-coached and have shown resilience in close games.
Houston Cougars
Odds to Win: +400 (Bet $10 to win $50 total)
The Houston Cougars are another strong contender, with a 5.5-point underdog status against Duke.
Houstonโs aggressive defense and fast-paced offense have made them a tough team to beat. Their ability to force turnovers and capitalize on fast breaks could be the key to their success.
Auburn Tigers
Odds to Win: +550 (Bet $10 to win $65 total)
The Auburn Tigers round out the Final Four, and while they have the longest odds, they are by no means a pushover.
Auburnโs high-scoring offense and tenacious defense have led them to this point. Their ability to shoot from long range and dominate the boards will be critical in their matchup against Florida.
Matchup Previews
The semifinals on April 5 promise to be thrilling, with Florida facing Auburn and Duke taking on Houston. Letโs break down these matchups.
Florida vs. Auburn
Florida opens as a 2.5-point favorite over Auburn. The Gatorsโ depth and versatility will be tested against Auburnโs high-octane offense.
Key players to watch include Floridaโs leading scorer and Auburnโs sharpshooting guard. The battle in the paint and the ability to control the tempo will be crucial factors in determining the outcome.
Duke vs. Houston
Duke is a 5.5-point favorite over Houston, but the Cougars should not be underestimated.
Dukeโs balanced attack and strong defensive presence will be challenged by Houstonโs aggressive style of play. Key matchups include Dukeโs star forward and Houstonโs defensive anchor. Rebounding and transition defense will be vital in this game.
Potential Championship Game Scenarios
DraftKings has also released odds for potential championship game matchups and their exact results. Here are the scenarios:
Duke and Florida
Odds: +130 (Bet $10 to win $23 total)
This is the most likely scenario, with Duke favored to win over Florida. The Blue Devilsโ experience and depth give them the edge in this potential matchup.
Duke and Auburn
Odds: +220 (Bet $10 to win $32 total)
If Auburn can pull off an upset against Florida, this could be an exciting championship game. Duke would still be favored, but Auburnโs high-scoring offense could make it a close contest.
Florida and Houston
Odds: +400 (Bet $10 to win $50 total)
This scenario sees Florida taking on Houston, with the Gators favored to win. Both teams have strong defenses, so expect a low-scoring, hard-fought battle.
Auburn and Houston
Odds: +600 (Bet $10 to win $70 total)
In this less likely scenario, Auburn would face Houston, with the Cougars having a slight edge. Both teamsโ aggressive styles would make for an intense and entertaining game.
Exact Result Odds
For those looking to make more specific bets, DraftKings offers odds on the exact result of the championship game:
- Duke over Florida: +235 (Bet $10 to win $33.50 total)
- Duke over Auburn: +340 (Bet $10 to win $44 total)
- Florida over Duke: +500 (Bet $10 to win $60 total)
- Florida over Houston: +700 (Bet $10 to win $80 total)
- Houston over Florida: +800 (Bet $10 to win $90 total)
- Auburn over Duke: +850 (Bet $10 to win $95 total)
- Houston over Auburn: +950 (Bet $10 to win $105 total)
- Auburn over Houston: +1100 (Bet $10 to win $120 total)
Historical Context
This yearโs tournament has been notable for its lack of major upsets. For the first time since 2007, there were no teams seeded 11 or lower in the Sweet 16.
The lowest seed remaining was 10-seed Arkansas. This trend highlights the dominance of the top-seeded teams and sets the stage for a highly competitive Final Four.
Moreover, a program has not three-peated since John Woodenโs UCLA Bruins won six consecutive titles from 1967 to 1973. With UConn out of the running, this remarkable streak remains unbroken.
Conclusion
As we approach the climax of the 2025 NCAA Menโs Basketball Tournament, the excitement is palpable.
With four No. 1 seeds in the Final Four, fans can expect high-quality basketball and intense competition.
Whether youโre backing Duke, Florida, Houston, or Auburn, this yearโs tournament promises to be one for the ages.
For more detailed information and updates, be sure to visit FOX Sports.
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