As the 2025 NCAA Tournament heats up, experts are buzzing about the potential Final Four and national championship contenders. The big question: Can South Carolina, the reigning champions, “run it back” and secure another title? And will UConn end their title drought, which has stretched since 2014?
South Carolina, led by head coach Dawn Staley, enters the tournament as a powerhouse once again. With a mix of experienced veterans and talented freshmen, the Gamecocks are primed for another deep run. Their suffocating defense and versatile offensive game make them a formidable opponent, and many experts believe their blend of skill and chemistry could propel them to another national title.
On the other hand, UConn, a perennial contender, is on a mission to return to the top after a decade-long championship drought. The Huskies, under the leadership of legendary coach Geno Auriemma, have been a dominant force in women’s college basketball but have faltered in the title game in recent years. With a strong roster, including some of the best players in the country, UConn has the talent and experience to go all the way.
ESPN’s experts are divided but leaning toward South Carolina to repeat as champions. Their depth, defense, and experience are major factors that could help them overcome any challenge. However, many predict that UConn, with its championship pedigree and hunger for redemption, could end its drought this season, especially if they hit their stride in the tournament.
As March Madness unfolds, the road to the Final Four promises to be thrilling, with South Carolina and UConn among the top teams vying for supremacy. Whether the Gamecocks can “run it back” or the Huskies will rise again remains to be seen, but both programs are in the hunt for glory.
Duke University men’s basketball head coach Jon Scheyer has issued a stern warning to his team after two 3-star players were caught using marijuana in the locker room following a practice session. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, has raised concerns within the program and among fans, as it challenges the discipline and values the Blue Devils uphold.
Scheyer, who is known for his commitment to building a strong team culture and promoting high standards both on and off the court, addressed the matter head-on in a team meeting. According to sources within the program, Scheyer expressed his disappointment and made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated under any circumstances. The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining a professional approach to both academics and athletics, stating that actions like these jeopardize not only the individuals involved but the entire team’s reputation.
The players in question, who have yet to be publicly identified, have reportedly apologized to their teammates and coaching staff. However, Scheyer warned them that any future transgressions would result in more severe consequences, including possible suspension or even expulsion from the team.
The use of marijuana, while legal in certain states, remains prohibited by NCAA regulations and can lead to serious repercussions for athletes involved in such activities. Scheyer’s response signals his determination to uphold the integrity of the program, ensuring that the focus remains on developing well-rounded student-athletes who excel both on the court and in their personal lives.
This incident serves as a reminder of the pressures athletes face and the importance of maintaining discipline and responsibility in all aspects of their lives.
Cooper Flagg, the highly touted freshman for the Duke Blue Devils, is already making waves with his remarkable work ethic and determination to prove himself on the court. Despite being one of the most highly recruited players in the nation, Flagg embraces an underdog mentality that has fueled his drive to succeed.
Flagg, known for his versatility as a forward and his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, has made it clear that his focus is not on individual accolades but on winning. “I just want to win,” Flagg said in a recent interview. “Whether it’s scoring 20 points or locking down the other team’s best player, I want to do whatever it takes to help this team succeed.”
The 6-foot-9 forward, who has been lauded for his defensive prowess and basketball IQ, understands the pressure that comes with being a highly ranked recruit. However, Flagg remains grounded and focused on his team-first mentality. He acknowledges that at Duke, a program with a rich history of success, it’s not about personal glory but about contributing to the Blue Devils’ legacy.
As Flagg continues to adjust to the fast-paced environment of college basketball, his commitment to team success has stood out. Duke head coach Jon Scheyer praised Flagg’s humility and work ethic, noting that his unselfish approach makes him a perfect fit for the Blue Devils’ system.
With his underdog mentality and relentless drive, Cooper Flagg is poised to be a key player for Duke this season, and his focus on winning over individual recognition will only help the Blue Devils in their pursuit of another championship.
In a stunning turn of events, Dawn Staley, head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, has turned down a lucrative contract extension offer from the university. Sources close to the negotiations confirm that the proposed deal included a significant pay increase and sizable bonus incentives, reflecting Staley’s remarkable success in leading the Gamecocks to national prominence.
Staley, one of the most respected coaches in college basketball, has transformed South Carolina into a powerhouse, securing multiple SEC titles and a national championship in 2017. Under her leadership, the Gamecocks have consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation, and Staley’s ability to recruit and develop top-tier talent has been a key factor in the team’s sustained success.
Despite the attractive financial terms of the extension, Staley reportedly declined the offer due to escalating salary and bonus expectations. The negotiations had been ongoing for several months, but the rising demands—partially driven by other high-profile coaching contracts in the sport—created a difficult situation. While the exact reasons behind Staley’s decision remain private, it is believed she sought a more balanced deal that took into account the evolving landscape of women’s college basketball salaries.
Staley’s decision has left the South Carolina athletic department in a challenging position, with the program now facing uncertainty regarding its future leadership. However, the coach’s commitment to her players and the Gamecocks remains unwavering. As Staley continues to shape her legacy as one of the game’s most influential figures, her next steps will be closely watched by fans, players, and other top college basketball programs.
Otega Oweh, a rising star for the Kentucky Wildcats, is steadfast in his approach to the game—he’s not concerned about being underrated. Despite receiving less recognition compared to some of his peers, the talented forward maintains a humble, team-first mentality. Oweh believes that his performance on the court will speak louder than any label others may place on him.
The 6-foot-7 freshman has quickly made an impact on the Wildcats’ roster with his high energy, defensive prowess, and offensive versatility. While some players may chase individual accolades, Oweh’s focus remains on the bigger picture: team success. “I don’t worry about being underrated,” Oweh said in a recent interview. “I just want to contribute to my team, and ultimately, I want to win. That’s what matters most.”
His mindset has not gone unnoticed. Coaches, teammates, and fans alike have lauded his work ethic and commitment to improving each day. Oweh’s approach mirrors the ethos of the Wildcats, a program that values team cohesion and grit above individual accomplishments. His contributions have helped Kentucky stay competitive in a highly challenging season.
As the Wildcats push forward in their season, Oweh’s attitude serves as an inspiration to those around him. For him, the recognition will follow as long as the victories keep piling up. “It’s all about the team,” Oweh emphasized. “I’ll keep putting in the work, and the rest will come. My goal is to help this team win, no matter what it takes.”
With his focus firmly on the court, Oweh’s determination may prove to be just what the Wildcats need as they chase postseason glory.
In a devastating turn of events, Kentucky Wildcats’ star player Otega Oweh has suffered a career-ending injury that could potentially threaten his right leg. The injury, sustained during a routine practice on Tuesday, has left fans and teammates reeling as medical professionals work tirelessly to stabilize his condition.
Oweh, known for his remarkable speed and defensive prowess, was involved in a non-contact drill when he twisted his leg in an unexpected motion. What initially seemed like a minor injury quickly escalated into a much more serious situation. Doctors have confirmed that Oweh has sustained extensive damage to his right leg, affecting crucial arteries and bones. Without swift and effective treatment, there are fears that he may lose the leg entirely.
The medical team is focused on providing immediate care to prevent further complications, and they are doing everything possible to ensure his leg is preserved. However, the severity of the injury has raised concerns about whether Oweh will ever be able to return to the field.
Coach Mark Stoops expressed his heartbreak over the incident, saying, “Otega is more than just a talented player; he’s a leader and a tremendous person. Our priority right now is his health and well-being. We’re all standing by him as he faces this incredibly tough battle.”
Oweh’s injury has not only impacted the Wildcats’ defense but has shaken the entire football community. As fans, teammates, and the coaching staff rally around him, the hope is that Oweh can recover physically and emotionally from this life-altering event. The road to recovery will be long, but the support for Oweh remains unwavering.
In a stunning announcement that has sent ripples through the basketball world, Indiana Hoosiers head coach Darian DeVries revealed today that standout guard Gabe Cupps is returning to the program for another season. The news, which many thought was a long shot, has the Hoosiers’ fanbase buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season.
Cupps, known not only for his skill on the court but also for his exceptional intellect, has been one of the most talked-about players in recent years. With an impressive basketball IQ, Cupps has earned the nickname “The Intellectual Star” for his ability to read the game like few others. His understanding of strategy, decision-making, and ability to elevate his teammates’ play has been a hallmark of his career, both in college and during his time in various national showcases.
Coach DeVries expressed his enthusiasm about Cupps’ return, stating, “Gabe is not just a great player, he’s an extraordinary mind on and off the court. His leadership, vision, and basketball acumen will be invaluable as we continue to build this program.”
Cupps had been a key figure in Indiana’s lineup last season, contributing with impressive stats while also serving as a mentor for younger players. Fans and analysts alike have speculated on the impact his return will have, especially considering the Hoosiers’ goal to contend for a top spot in the Big Ten and make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
As the Hoosiers gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on Cupps, whose combination of basketball prowess and sharp intellect promises to make him one of the most exciting players to watch in the country.
Indiana formally introduced Darian DeVries as their new men’s head basketball coach on Wednesday, and DeVries is already facing some criticism over the process that led to him landing in Bloomington.
Mike Woodson stepped down as the head coach at Indiana following a 19-13 season that saw the Hoosiers miss the NCAA Tournament for a second consecutive year. Woodson had faced growing backlash from fans, which is why many saw the change coming even before Indiana announced it.
The big question now is when Indiana knew they were going to replace Woodson with DeVries, who just finished his first and only season at West Virginia. When asked about that on Wednesday, DeVries all but admitted that he had a handshake agreement in place with his new employer at some point during the 2024-25 season.
“Obviously, the process is the process. I know how it plays out,” DeVries told reporters. “As you’re going through their season, they were very respectful of making sure that my focus continued to be on our team. I certainly appreciated that.”
That type of thing happens all the time in college basketball and all major sports. What some fans are really in an uproar over is how DeVries’ son, Tucker DeVries, factors into the equation.
Tucker was a star player under Darian at Drake and then followed his father to West Virginia last season. The senior averaged 14.9 points per game in eight games before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. He missed enough time that he was eligible for a medical redshirt, which granted him an extra season of eligibility.
Given the way everything has played out, many have theorized that Tucker — at the very least — exaggerated his injury so he could maintain eligibility and play for his father at Indiana.
This might be the weirdest draft cycle in a while for the Cleveland Browns. They’re one of several high-pick teams in desperate need of a starting quarterback, and they’re looking down the barrel of a quarterback class that basically has one sure-thing starter in it.
That player, Cam Ward, is also slated to go just one pick ahead of the Browns’ No. 2 selection, straight to The Volunteer State. The Titans are just as hungry for a franchise QB to grace their locker room once again, and Ward seems like their best chance in a while to achieve that. Good for them.
Cleveland now has to figure out what to do at quarterback in the draft – if anything at all. They can also go for a player like Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter at No. 2 overall instead, and take a quarterback to develop later in the draft. Yes, that’s Jalen Milroe’s music you’re hearing.
Or, they can pick Shedeur Sanders at that spot and build around the signal caller with a few flaws to work out but a solid floor to reach.
Given the latest news about the Titans’ courting efforts around Ward, it could feel like Cleveland is just further between a rock and a hard place in their quarterback search. But, you could definitely argue that this is a great thing for them. Clarity is being provided to the Browns’ front office about their options with their top pick.
Ezavier Crowell is back in Tuscaloosa for a multiple-day visit with the Crimson Tide.
Crowell attends Jackson High School in Alabama, and he is one of the nation’s top 2026 ball carriers. He is currently considering Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas after reclassifying from the 2027 class.
No school has hosted Crowell over the last year more than Alabama. It is a program he continues to show interest in.
“Growing up, used to watch them a lot,” Crowell said. “It is definitely a top school for me. I see myself playing in Crimson soon. But it comes down to how they would develop me as a person, player and everything else.”
The Jackson product helped the Aggies win a state championship with his dynamic playing style during the 2024 season. The 5-foot-11, 215-pounder is a physical runner, who runs through arm tackles with proven speed as he holds a PR of 10.6 in the 100-meter dash.