The 2025 NCAA Tournament was packed with excitement, upsets, and dominant performances. As the field narrowed, the battle for college basketball’s ultimate prize became even more intense. From the Sweet 16 to the Elite Eight, then through the Final Four, and ultimately to Florida’s championship victory over Duke, let’s take a look back at the thrilling matchups that shaped this year’s tournament.
Sweet 16: The Best Rise to the Occasion
The Sweet 16 featured some of the most competitive matchups of the tournament, with top seeds proving their dominance while lower seeds fought to extend their Cinderella runs.
- Auburn vs. Michigan State – This game featured a battle of two powerhouse programs, but Michigan State’s discipline and defensive toughness were the difference-makers. The Spartans slowed down Auburn’s high-powered offense and executed in clutch moments. Michigan State moved on to the Elite Eight.
- Florida vs. St. John’s – St. John’s aggressive defense kept them in the game, but Florida’s size and ability to push the tempo proved too much to handle. Florida secured their spot in the next round.
- Duke vs. Oregon – Oregon came in as a dangerous underdog, but Duke controlled the pace with their balanced scoring attack and defensive discipline. Duke advanced.
- Alabama vs. Wisconsin – Alabama’s high-octane offense overwhelmed Wisconsin’s methodical approach, as the Crimson Tide shot their way into the Elite Eight.
- Houston vs. Clemson – Houston flexed their defensive strength, shutting down Clemson’s offense and taking control late in the game. Houston moved on.
- Tennessee vs. Kentucky – A classic SEC showdown ended with Tennessee dominating the boards and controlling the paint to move forward. Tennessee secured their spot in the next round.
Elite Eight: The Battle for the Final Four
With the field down to eight teams, only the best of the best remained. Each team was just one win away from reaching the Final Four, making every possession crucial.
- Michigan State vs. Florida – A high-stakes showdown between Michigan State’s experience and Florida’s explosive offense ended with the Gators controlling the tempo and dominating the glass. Florida booked their ticket to the Final Four.
- Duke vs. Tennessee – Tennessee gave Duke all they could handle, but Duke’s ability to execute in the final minutes allowed them to punch their ticket to the Final Four.
- Houston vs. Tennessee – A defensive slugfest went down to the wire, but Tennessee’s rebounding and physical play pushed them past Houston. Tennessee advanced.
- Florida vs. St. John’s – Florida continued to dominate, using their athleticism and transition game to overpower St. John’s. The Gators secured their Final Four spot.
Final Four: Two Spots Left for the Championship
After weeks of grueling competition, only four teams remained. The Final Four featured marquee matchups between college basketball’s most dominant teams, with each looking to take the next step toward a national title.
- Florida vs. Michigan State – Michigan State fought hard, but Florida’s depth and athleticism proved to be the difference. The Gators controlled the pace and took over in the second half to punch their ticket to the national championship.
- Duke vs. Tennessee – Tennessee had the size advantage, but Duke’s offensive versatility and perimeter shooting helped them pull away late. Duke advanced to the championship game.
National Championship: Florida Takes Down Duke
The National Championship Game featured two No. 1 seeds, Florida vs. Duke, in a battle of two of the tournament’s most dominant teams. Duke entered the game with their balanced attack and strong perimeter defense, while Florida relied on its up-tempo offense and physical presence inside.
Duke started strong, controlling the pace early, but Florida responded with a second-half surge led by their inside scoring and transition offense. The Gators wore down Duke’s defense and took control late in the game, sealing the victory with clutch free throws and strong defensive stops.
Final Score: Florida 86, Duke 78
With this win, Florida was crowned the 2025 NCAA National Champions, proving that their dominance throughout the tournament was no fluke. From the Sweet 16 to the championship game, Florida showed resilience, depth, and the ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stage.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NCAA Tournament delivered unforgettable moments and showcased the best teams and players in college basketball. Florida’s run to the championship was a testament to their depth, speed, and execution in crucial moments. With another season in the books, fans are already looking forward to what March Madness 2026 will bring!
