March is right around the corner, which means only one thing for college basketball fans and bettors alike — it’s that time when dreams are made, brackets are broken, and Cinderella stories unfold. Whether you’re rooting for the top seeds or hunting for those thrilling upsets, now is the time to get your college basketball predictions in order.
Here, we’ll break down the NCAAB betting favorites, dark horses with promise, and potential upset-makers that could turn the tide.
Who’s Leading the Pack?
The latest college basketball betting news identifies Duke and Auburn as the co-favorites for 2025 March Madness. Both teams boast powerhouse rosters and have consistently crushed it against top contenders this season.
Betting Favorites to Win It All
- Auburn Tigers (+440)
After weathering midseason challenges, Johni Broome is back with a vengeance. Auburn, ranked as the top offensive team by KenPom, has the talent and depth to go toe-to-toe with any team. Add emerging stars like Tahaad Pettiford, and you’ve got yourself a contender for the ages.
● Why bet on Auburn? Their balanced offense and resilient roster make them serious threats come tournament time. Sportsbooks like Fanduel have them as the favorites to win, and we certainly can’t blame them.
- Duke Blue Devils (+450)
Duke also remains a top contender. It is led by star player Cooper Flagg, a Wooden Award favorite expected to be the No. 1 NBA draft pick.
Backed by Tyrese Proctor and Kon Knueppel, the Blue Devils are rock-solid on both ends of the court and seem poised for a deep run.
● Why bet on Duke? They’re firing on all cylinders, boasting one of the most versatile lineups in college basketball. If you’re looking for a safe bet, Duke fits the bill.
Don’t Sleep on These Dark Horses
While Duke and Auburn may dominate the conversation, it wouldn’t be March Madness without some unexpected heroes. Let’s spotlight the teams flying under the radar with enough juice to make a deep run.
- Houston Cougars (+950)
Kelvin Sampson’s defensive juggernaut is here again. Ranked in the top 10 for both offensive and defensive efficiency, Houston has the experience and grit to overthrow even the favorites.
● Quick Tip: Keep an eye on LJ Cryer and J’Wan Roberts, who could be pivotal in tight matchups.
- Alabama Crimson Tide (+950)
Nate Oats’ squad leads the NCAA in points per game and adjusted offensive efficiency. If they can tighten up on defense, they can become this year’s breakout story.
- Creighton Bluejays (+5500)
Creighton might not be the hottest pick, but Ryan Kalkbrenner’s defensive prowess gives them a fighting chance. With the right bracket draw, they could surprise a lot of folks.
Bracket Busting Upset Alerts
What’s March Madness without a little chaos? Here are a few teams capable of pulling off those bracket-busting upsets.
● Xavier Musketeers: The season hasn’t been kind to Xavier, but every Cinderella run starts with a tough-luck story. Can their clutch scorers and sharp-shooting swing games in their favor?
● St. John’s Red Storm: Known for their aggressive defense, Rick Pitino’s squad has what it takes to grind down higher-seeded opponents in the early rounds.
Pro Tip for Betting on Upsets
Look for teams that play elite defense or excel at three-point shooting. These are two critical factors that often define upset wins.
Smart Betting Strategies for March Madness
Betting on basketball isn’t just about picking a favorite team.
Reputable sportsbooks like Fanduel offer betting insights and favorable odds with good payouts. Still, you must have a strategy to effectively leverage the FanDuel NCAAB odds to cash in big wins.
Here are some betting tips:
- Follow the Numbers: Advanced analytics can give you insight into both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. Always factor in defensive and offensive efficiency.
- Ride the Hot Teams: Pay attention to teams peaking late in the season. Momentum often carries into the tournament, making late-bloomers dangerous opponents.
- Avoid Overcommitting: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Betting on a mix of the favorites, dark horses, and a few long shots can help spread your risk.
Final Thoughts on March Madness 2025
The magic of March Madness lies in its unpredictability. Whether you’re placing heavy bets on Duke/Auburn or backing underdogs like Creighton, this year’s tournament promises edge-of-your-seat action.
If you’re new to betting, platforms like FanDuel are a great way to get started. Keep these March Madness predictions handy and check the latest college basketball betting news for updates as Selection Sunday approaches.
