The Kentucky Wildcats have been designated as the No. 3 seed in the Midwest Region for the 2025 NCAA Tournament, holding the 11th position overall according to the Selection Committee. Despite not clinching the SEC Tournament title, the Wildcats’ season was bolstered by significant victories, including two over Tennessee and a notable win against Duke, culminating in a 22-11 record. Under the leadership of first-year coach Mark Pope, Kentucky has demonstrated consistent high-level performance. They are slated to face the Troy Trojans in Milwaukee.
Historically, Kentucky has participated in the NCAA Tournament as a No. 3 seed on five occasions, including this year. The team’s record as a No. 3 seed stands at 6-4, with a 2-1 record in first-round matchups. Notably, in the 1999 NCAA Tournament, the Wildcats advanced to the Elite Eight as a No. 3 seed, securing victories over New Mexico State, Kansas, and Miami (OH) before falling to Michigan State.
The 2025 NCAA Tournament features Auburn as the No. 1 overall seed, with Duke, Florida, and Houston also securing No. 1 seeds. Auburn boasts a 28-5 record, earning the top spot after a strong regular season despite a setback in the SEC Tournament. Duke holds a 31-3 record and is the top betting favorite, though concerns linger over star player Cooper Flagg’s recent ankle injury. Houston, with a 30-4 record, claimed the Big 12 Tournament title but faces a challenging path ahead. Florida, the newly crowned SEC champions, also holds a 30-4 record but may encounter tough games early in the tournament.
Kentucky’s placement as the No. 3 seed reflects the Selection Committee’s assessment of their performance throughout the season, taking into account key victories and overall record. As the tournament unfolds, the Wildcats aim to capitalize on their seeding and advance deep into the competition.
