2025 NCAA Tournament South Region Insights: Predictions, Upsets, and Key Players
An analysis of the South Region in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, featuring essential predictions, potential upsets, and standout players to watch.
After Auburn fell to Tennessee in the SEC Tournament semifinals – its third loss in four games – Tigers coach Bruce Pearl made a case for why his team should still be the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament. In his plea, Pearl noted his team boasts one of the strongest résumés in the history of college basketball.
The selection committee clearly agreed, granting Auburn the top spot in the bracket with a 16-5 Quad 1 record, despite recent struggles. “I can hardly wait ’til next weekend to start playing again,” Pearl said. “Let’s get to Sunday, find out where we’re going, who we’re playing, and get back to work. I’m looking forward, not back.”
Assuming the Tigers advance past either Alabama State or Saint Francis in the first round, things could become interesting against either No. 8 Louisville or No. 9 Creighton in the second round.
Elsewhere in the bracket, No. 4 Texas A&M and No. 5 Michigan face potential challenges from Cinderellas. Texas A&M meets No. 13 Yale while Michigan must contend with No. 12 UC San Diego, which has the longest winning streak in the nation at 15 entering the tournament.
Fierce competition awaits in the South Region, with a First Four clash between No. 11 North Carolina and San Diego State making life tough for No. 6 Ole Miss under second-year coach Chris Beard.
Cinderella team that will surprise
(13) Yale
Yale, after beating No. 4 seed Auburn last season, isn’t afraid of the first-round clash with Texas A&M. The Bulldogs are primed to exceed expectations with their deep roster from last season’s Cinderella run.
Team that will make a far-too-early exit
(8) Louisville
This matchup poses a tough situation for Louisville, who has seen remarkable improvement under first-year coach Pat Kelsey, leading them to a 27-7 (18-2 ACC) record.
Six players to watch
- Johni Broome, Auburn: The standout center is a serious contender for National Player of the Year.
- Jase Richardson, Michigan State: Averaging 17.3 points per game, he’s making a significant impact.
- Kam Jones, Marquette: Known for his explosive scoring ability.
- Curtis Jones, Iowa State: Expected to shoulder more responsibility this tournament.
- Danny Wolf, Michigan: Unique talent combining size and skill.
- Donovan Dent, New Mexico: An aggressive scorer contributing significantly this season.
South Regional winner
(2) Michigan State is my pick, with a favorable path and a proven record.
