The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, March Madness, commenced with a fun first round, delivering the excitement and unpredictability that fans and bettors eagerly anticipate each year on the road to the finals.
From dominant performances by top seeds to a few unexpected upsets that busted brackets nationwide, the opening games have set the stage for what should be an exhilarating tournament.
Let's delve into the highlights, standout performances, and betting insights from the first round of March Madness scores 2025.
Contents
- Top Seeds Assert Dominance
- Notable Upsets Shake the Bracket
- Betting Trends & Insights After the First Round
- Standout Individual Performances in Round 1
- Looking Ahead to Round 2
- How to Max Your Winnings in the Coming Rounds
Top Seeds Assert Dominance
The tournament's top seeds left no doubt about their championship aspirations, delivering commanding performances that showcased their prowess. Historically, number one seeds boast a near-perfect record in the first round, and this year was no exception.
Florida Gators (1) vs. Norfolk State Spartans (16)
The Florida Gators demonstrated their offensive firepower with a resounding 95-69 victory over the Norfolk State Spartans. The Gators' relentless attack overwhelmed their opponents, setting a high standard for their tournament journey.
Florida's dynamic backcourt, led by guard Walter Clayton Jr, dictated the pace from the opening tip. Clayton Jr. finished the game with 23 points, including four three-pointers, cementing his status as one of the tournament's most impactful players.
Defensively, the Gators suffocated Norfolk State's perimeter shooters, forcing 12 turnovers and converting them into 16 fast-break points. Coach Todd Golden praised his team's defensive intensity, noting that their ability to pressure the ball and contest shots would be crucial as the tournament progresses.
Duke Blue Devils (1) vs. Mount St. Mary's Mountaineers (16)
Duke cruised to a 93-49 win against the Mount St. Mary's Mountaineers. Duke's stifling defense and efficient scoring underscored their status as a formidable contender. Sophomore standout Tyrese Proctor led the way for the Blue Devils.
The Blue Devils' dominance extended beyond individual brilliance. Their defensive rotations were sharp, limiting Mount St. Mary's to just 30% shooting from the field. Duke's ability to control the glass and push the tempo was instrumental in building an insurmountable lead by halftime.
Kentucky Wildcats (3) vs. Troy Trojans (14)
Kentucky secured a solid 76-57 triumph over the Troy Trojans. The Wildcats' balanced play and depth were on full display, reinforcing their reputation as a perennial powerhouse. Junior guard Otega Oweh was instrumental in the victory, scoring 20 points along with 8 rebounds and 6 boards.
Despite the comfortable margin of victory, Coach Mark Pope emphasised the need for improvement. "We can't afford lapses in focus against tougher competition," he remarked post-game. Kentucky's ability to clean up turnovers and maintain defensive discipline will be pivotal in the next round.
Notable Upsets Shake the Bracket
March Madness wouldn’t be complete without its share of upsets, and the first round of 2025 delivered surprises, including Ole Miss's unexpected victory, that sent shockwaves through the betting community.
New Mexico Lobos (10) vs. Marquette Golden Eagles (7)
The New Mexico Lobos pulled off a stunning 75-66 upset over the Marquette Golden Eagles. The Lobos' tenacious defense and clutch shooting dismantled Marquette's game plan, marking New Mexico's first advancement to the second round in over a decade. Guard Donovan Dent spearheaded the charge with 21 points and six assists, controlling the tempo and making timely baskets.
Marquette, a popular pick for a potential elite 8 run, struggled to handle New Mexico's physicality. The Golden Eagles committed 12 turnovers and failed to capitalize on second-chance opportunities. This victory not only advanced New Mexico to the Round of 32 but also highlighted the unpredictability that defines March Madness.
Colorado State Rams (12) vs. Memphis Tigers (5)
In another bracket-busting moment, the Colorado State Rams emerged victorious against the Memphis Tigers with a 78-70 win. This classic 12-over-5 upset highlighted the Rams' resilience and ability to capitalize on Memphis's turnovers. Guard Kyan Evans led all scorers with 23 points, delivering a great performance on a national stage.
Colorado State's game plan revolved around controlling the paint and slowing down Memphis's transition offense. By forcing Memphis into a half-court battle, the Rams neutralised their opponent's athleticism and exploited defensive lapses leading them to the second round.
Betting Trends & Insights After the First Round
The first round provided valuable insights for bettors, with several trends emerging:
1. Double-Digit Favorites Deliver
Teams favored by 10 points or more performed exceptionally well, going 103-11 straight up and 64-50 against the spread (56%) since 2017. This trend continued in 2025, with top seeds covering large spreads comfortably. Favorites of 10 more went 9-4 ATS.
2. Mid-Level Favorites Struggle
Favorites in the -3.5 to -7.5 range faced challenges, with a historical record of 129-63 straight up but only 96-94-2 against the spread since 2017. Bettors should exercise caution when backing mid-level Favorites, as these matchups often prove more competitive than anticipated. New Mexico’s upset over Marquette exemplified this trend.
3. High Totals Trend Under
Games with totals set at 150 or higher have trended decisively under in recent tournaments, going 71-58 over the last five years. This pattern persisted in the first round, with several high-total games failing to reach their projected numbers. Defensive intensity and the pressure of the moment often contribute to lower-scoring affairs.
Standout Individual Performances in Round 1
Several players delivered exceptional performances that not only propelled their teams to victory but also caught the attention of fans and scouts alike.
- Tyrese Proctor (Duke Blue Devils): 19 points and five assists in a dominant first-round win.
- Marcus Delaney (Colorado State Rams): 23 points and six three pointers leading his team to beat the No. 5 seed, Memphis Tigers.
- Donovan Dent (New Mexico Lobos): 21 points, 6 assists in a surprising upset victory over Marquette.
- Otega Oweh (Kentucky Wildcats): 20 points in a convincing win over Troy, providing offensive firepower.
Looking Ahead to Round 2
As we advance to the Round of 32, the matchups promise increased intensity and intrigue. Bettors should consider the following:
Rest and Recovery
Teams that secured decisive victories may have the advantage of resting key players, potentially providing an edge in the next round. Duke and Florida's blowout wins allowed their stars to conserve energy, a crucial factor in a gruelling tournament.
Momentum of Upset Winners
Teams coming off significant upsets often carry momentum into subsequent games. Evaluating whether these teams can sustain their performance levels is crucial for informed betting decisions. Both New Mexico and Colorado State will be tested as they face higher seeds.
Historical Matchup Data
Analysing past encounters between teams can offer insights into potential outcomes, especially when considering factors like coaching strategies and player matchups. Historical trends favor experienced coaches and balanced rosters in tight contests.
How to Max Your Winnings in the Coming Rounds
The first round of the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament delivered everything fans and bettors could hope for—dominant displays from top seeds, bracket-busting upsets, and valuable betting insights. From Florida and Duke's commanding victories to surprise wins by New Mexico and Colorado State, the opening games reinforced the excitement and unpredictability that define March Madness. With the Round of 32 looming, bettors have an opportunity to refine their strategies and capitalise on emerging trends.
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