March Madness Countdown: Who's In, Who's Out, and Who Needs To Rise

The Road to March Madness

As we inch closer to Selection Sunday on March 16, the anticipation for the 2025 NCAA men's basketball tournament is heating up. With just about 40 days until the excitement begins, it's the perfect time to dive into our Bubble Watch 2025 – assessing which teams have solidified their spots and which are still grappling for a chance.

Locking Down the Favorites

Traditionally, a team is deemed a Lock if it holds at least a 95% probability of making the tournament. According to ESPN Analytics' BPI forecast, this year features 18 teams that have captured that status, including powerhouse programs like the Auburn Tigers, Tennessee Volunteers, and Alabama Crimson Tide. These teams have demonstrated consistent performance throughout the season, showcasing elite talent and strong records against top competition.

The Teams to Watch

While some teams are safe bets, many find themselves in the Should Be In category, where teams possess a 70% to 94% chance of making the cut. The Kentucky Wildcats and Texas Longhorns have recently faced bumps in the road but still boast formidable resumes.

Meanwhile, numerous teams are classified as Work To Do. These squads, with tournament odds ranging from 25% to 69%, must ramp up their efforts to earn a coveted spot in the tournament. This group includes the Missouri Tigers and Oklahoma Sooners, both of whom must bolster their records against tougher opponents to solidify their positions.

Conference Breakdown

As we traverse through the various conferences, certain teams are glaringly under pressure:

• SEC: The conference boasts strong contenders, including multiple locks and teams that must fight to bolster their rankings.
• Big Ten: With solid performances from teams like the Purdue Boilermakers and Michigan Wolverines, this conference promises to deliver high-stakes drama.
• Big 12: The Houston Cougars and Arizona Wildcats lead this group, with high hopes for further success.

Continuous Updates Until Selection Sunday

The landscape of NCAA basketball changes rapidly, and our Bubble Watch will be consistently updated until March 16. Several teams still have the opportunity to improve their standings, and as we near the tournament, it’s clear: every game counts.

As Selection Sunday approaches, many fans are left wondering: Who will clinch their spot, and who will fall short? Stay tuned!

Key Upcoming Games

• Kentucky vs. Ole Miss - Tuesday at 7 p.m. (ESPN)
• Texas vs. Arkansas - Wednesday at 9 p.m. (ESPN2)

Conclusion

The nail-biting anticipation of March Madness is upon us! Teams around the nation are vying for their shot at glory, and with the stakes getting higher, expect thrilling finishes as the bubble bursts.

Let’s keep our eyes on the court as we watch drama unfold on the path to the NCAA tournament!