Which underdog teams will make a surprising impact in the 2025 men’s NCAA Tournament? The allure of March Madness lies in the Cinderella stories – those teams that defy expectations and make thrilling runs. Upsets are inevitable, but it’s truly remarkable when these underdogs advance deep into the tournament stages like the Sweet 16, Elite Eight, or even the Final Four.
This year’s NCAA Tournament features a diverse range of contenders vying for the national championship, including SEC powerhouses, Duke, and top Big Ten teams. However, there’s always a dark horse ready to disrupt the established order and wreak havoc on everyone’s brackets.
In 2024, Oakland made waves in the first round, while NC State surprised everyone with a remarkable journey to the Final Four. Who will be the breakout stars this time around? Numerous teams are poised to shake up the tournament and shock fans with their performances.
Arkansas: Despite a slow start in the SEC, “Underdog John Calipari” could orchestrate a remarkable campaign with the Razorbacks. Known for their shot-blocking prowess, led by Zvonimir Ivisic, Arkansas has showcased strong guard play from D.J. Wagner and Johnell Davis, the latter boasting Final Four experience. The return of Boogie Fland adds depth to the roster, providing a significant boost in scoring. With impressive recent performances, Arkansas poses a formidable challenge for any opponent, including Kansas.
Drake: With just two losses this season, Drake has emerged as a formidable force under coach Ben McCollum. The Bulldogs prioritize defense, boasting the best points-per-game allowed in the nation, anchored by standout player Bennett Stirtz. Stirtz leads in scoring, assists, and steals, showcasing his all-around impact on the court. Drake’s transition from Division II has been seamless, with a roster that can compete with Division I talent. Their defensive prowess will test even high-scoring teams like Missouri.
UC San Diego: A popular pick as a double-digit seed, UC San Diego enters their first NCAA Tournament with high expectations due to their strong defense and efficient ball-handling. The Tritons won 30 games this season, boasting the best turnover margin in Division I. Their offense, complemented by a solid defense, has allowed them to dominate games with an impressive scoring margin. While replicating their regular-season dominance might be challenging, UC San Diego’s cohesive core unit and clean style of play make them a team to watch in the tournament.
In the realm of college basketball, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the standout players and teams, including the likes of Aniwaniwa Tait-Jones from the Big West. Colorado State managed to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament by clinching the Mountain West Conference tournament. The Rams have shown promise beyond just making it to the main event, particularly excelling in defense but also igniting a 10-game winning streak through their offensive prowess, averaging 78.3 points per game during that impressive run. The standout performance of fifth-year senior Nique Clifford, who showcased his skills with 25 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game in the Mountain West tournament, has been instrumental in the team’s success. Colorado State’s strong showing has positioned them as a formidable contender in the conference, especially as they face a somewhat unpredictable Memphis team. With a solid start from the 3-point line, Colorado State could prove to be a challenging opponent to overcome.
McNeese, led by coach Will Wade, is a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Tournament following a dominant campaign in the Southland Conference. Known for their aggressive defense and ability to convert turnovers into points, the Cowboys have demonstrated their offensive depth with multiple scoring options, with five players averaging at least 10 points per game. Despite Clemson being favored in their upcoming matchup, McNeese’s resilience and ability to keep games close suggest that they will put up a tough fight. With close losses against strong opponents like Alabama and Mississippi State, McNeese is poised to give their first-round opponent a run for their money.
Yale, a No. 13 seed, has the potential to deliver another first-round upset similar to their victory over Auburn in the previous year. The Bulldogs’ sharpshooting from beyond the arc, coupled with their efficient ball-handling and low turnover rate, poses a significant threat to opponents like Texas A&M. Armed with experienced players like John Poulakidas, who played a key role in last year’s success, Yale is well-equipped to make a deep run in the tournament. Their offensive prowess and ability to limit turnovers could prove to be decisive factors in their quest for success.
High Point emerges as a dark horse in the tournament, boasting a seasoned lineup with strong offensive capabilities. With four out of five starters having extensive experience, the Panthers excel in efficient possession play, shooting at an impressive 49.4% from the field. Their matchup against Purdue presents an opportunity to exploit the Boilermakers’ defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in the absence of key players. High Point’s strategic approach and ability to capitalize on their opponent’s weaknesses could pave the way for a surprising upset, making them a team to watch out for in this year’s March Madness.
(Source: Adapted from an article on USA TODAY about March Madness Cinderella teams: 7 candidates that could bust brackets)
