Men’s Final Four 2025: Comprehensive Breakdown, Predictions, and Key Players to Watch

The 2025 Men’s NCAA Tournament has culminated in a historic Final Four, with all four No. 1 seeds—Duke, Florida, Auburn, and Houston—advancing to the semifinals. This marks the first occurrence since 2008, setting the stage for an exhilarating conclusion to the season.

Semifinal Matchups and Predictions

Florida Gators vs. Auburn Tigers

• Date and Time: Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 6:09 p.m. ET

• Broadcast: CBS

The Florida Gators make their first Final Four appearance since 2014, propelled by senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., who delivered a stellar 30-point performance in the Elite Eight against Texas Tech. Florida boasts the nation’s second-ranked offense, demonstrating resilience and efficiency throughout the tournament.

Conversely, the Auburn Tigers, led by Wooden Award finalist Johni Broome, present a formidable challenge. Broome’s leadership and the team’s depth have been instrumental in their journey, with multiple players averaging double-digit points. Auburn seeks redemption after a previous loss to Florida ended their 14-game winning streak earlier this season.

Prediction: Florida’s dynamic backcourt, spearheaded by Clayton Jr., is anticipated to provide the edge needed to overcome Auburn’s balanced attack, securing the Gators a spot in the national championship game.

Houston Cougars vs. Duke Blue Devils

• Date and Time: Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 8:49 p.m. ET

• Broadcast: CBS

The Duke Blue Devils have exhibited dominance in the tournament, winning their first four games by a combined 94 points. Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg has been a pivotal contributor, leading the team in multiple statistical categories and emerging as a National Player of the Year contender.

The Houston Cougars counter with the nation’s most efficient defense, allowing a mere 58.5 points per game. Their Elite Eight victory over Tennessee showcased their defensive prowess, holding the Volunteers to just 15 first-half points. Offensively, Houston’s impressive three-point shooting percentage of 39.7% adds another layer of complexity to their game.

Prediction: Duke’s balanced approach, excelling in both offensive and defensive efficiency, positions them favorably. By limiting Houston’s perimeter shooting and leveraging their offensive depth, the Blue Devils are projected to advance to the championship game.

Key Players to Watch

• Cooper Flagg (Duke): A versatile forward leading the Blue Devils in points, rebounds, assists, and steals, Flagg’s all-around performance is critical to Duke’s success.

• Walter Clayton Jr. (Florida): An All-American guard known for clutch performances, Clayton Jr. is the linchpin of Florida’s potent offense.

• Johni Broome (Auburn): A dominant presence in the paint, Broome’s scoring and rebounding abilities make him a constant threat.

• L.J. Cryer (Houston): A sharpshooter aiming to secure titles with two different schools, Cryer’s experience and perimeter shooting are vital for the Cougars.

As the Final Four approaches, basketball enthusiasts can anticipate high-caliber performances and strategic battles, with each team bringing unique strengths to the court in pursuit of the national championship.