Final Four Predictions: Auburn, St. John’s, Duke, and Houston Poised for Big March Runs

South Region Champion: Auburn Tigers

Auburn has all the tools to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, and as the number one seed in the big dance, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to see them in anyones Final Four prediction. With a high-powered offense, tough defense, and battle-tested roster, the Tigers are built for March.

Auburn has one of the best offenses in the country. The Tigers average 83.8 points per game, making them a nightmare for opposing defenses. Johni Broome has been their go-to guy, leading the team in scoring while shooting at an efficient rate. When Auburn’s offense is clicking, they’re almost impossible to stop.

On the defensive side of the ball they can be just as tough for opposing teams. They allow 69.6 points per game, and their ability to pressure teams and control the pace has been key all season. In the tournament, where defense can make or break a team, Auburn’s ability to get stops will be a huge advantage.

On top of that, they’ve played one of the toughest schedules in the country, proving they can compete with anyone. Experience in big games matters in March, and Auburn has been tested all season.

With elite scoring, a strong defense, and a coach who knows how to win, Auburn has everything it takes to reach the Final Four this year.

West Region Champion: St John’s Red Storm

St. John’s has all the pieces to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, and there’s no reason they can’t crash the Final Four. Rick Pitino has this team locked in, and when you combine great coaching with talent and momentum, special things happen.

First, their defense is legit. St. John’s has been shutting teams down all season, making life miserable for opponents with their physical play and ability to force turnovers. In the tournament, when games slow down and every possession matters, having a strong defense can be the difference between winning and going home.

Then there’s their depth and versatility. This isn’t a one-man show—multiple guys can step up on any given night. Whether it’s a big game from Zuby Ejiofor in the paint or a strong backcourt performance from RJ Luis in the backcourt, they have the pieces to match up with anyone.

Momentum is also huge in March, and St. John’s is rolling at the right time. They’ve beaten top teams and know how to win tough games, which will be key as the tournament progresses. They should inevitably run into Florida, and they are going to be dogs in that game, but expect Pitino to have the Red Storm well prepared for that showdown.

With Pitino leading the way, a tough defense, and a confident team, don’t be surprised if St. John’s is still standing when the Final Four rolls around.

East Region Champion: Duke Blue Devils

Duke has everything you need to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, and with the talent they have, a Final Four appearance is very likely—but it all hinges on the health of Cooper Flagg. Flagg has been one of the most talked-about players this season, and when he’s on the floor, he can change the game on both ends. His ability to score, defend, and rebound at a high level makes him arguably the best player in the country.

Duke’s offense is elite and with Flagg’s scoring and playmaking, they probably have the best all around team in the country. They Blue Devils can go inside with their bigs, hit shots from the perimeter, and create fast breaks, giving them versatility in their offense.

Duke really gets at you on defense making opposing teams uncomfortable all game. it starts with Cooper Flagg and his ability to defend the opposing teams best player. Additionally his shot-blocking, ability to guard multiple positions, and leadership on defense are key to their success.

However, if Flagg is sidelined with any injuries, Duke’s chances of making it to the Final Four take a major hit. His health is crucial—if he’s healthy, Duke is as dangerous as any team in the country and will more then likely wind up in the Final Four.

Midwest Region Champion: Houston Cougars

The Midwest Region of the NCAA Tournament is definitely the most wide open and up for grabs this year. While Houston comes in as the top seed and a favorite to make it out, they may struggle against some of the teams in there region. The Midwest region has several teams capable of making a deep run, and honestly, it could be anyone’s shot to come out on top.

Houston is known for its tough defense and efficient offense, but they are definitely beatable. Teams like Tennessee and Gonzaga are no strangers to March Madness, and either could pull off an upset on any given night. Tennessee has been playing some great basketball, and with their defense, they can cause problems for anyone. Gonzaga might not be a high seed, but they have the experience and talent to go deep in this tournament if they survive Georgia in the first round.

Even teams like Purdue and Clemson can be dangerous. Purdue comes into the tournament as a strong team, but they’ve been known to falter under pressure. Clemson, meanwhile, has one of the best wins, if not the best win of the season when the were able to take down Duke. Clemson plays with a lot of confidence, and that makes them dangerous in March.

The reality is, Houston may be the favorite, but the Midwest Region is wide open. Any team in this bracket has a shot if they get hot at the right time. This could be one of the most exciting regions to watch unfold, but when its all said and done the Houston Cougars will probably stand tall.

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