Duke’s Final Four Opponent and 2025 NCAA Tournament Semifinal Breakdown
The 2025 NCAA Tournament has lived up to its reputation for drama and excitement, and now only four teams remain in the quest for the national championship. Duke, led by first-year head coach Jon Scheyer, has secured its spot in the Final Four after a dominant 85-65 victory over Alabama in the Elite Eight. The Blue Devils are now set to face off against the Houston Cougars in the first semifinal matchup.
Duke’s Journey to the Final Four
Duke’s run to the Final Four has been impressive. With a mix of seasoned talent and standout freshmen, including phenom Cooper Flagg, Duke has shown resilience throughout the tournament. Flagg, who has played a pivotal role in the Blue Devils’ success, scored 16 points in the Elite Eight, helping to push Duke past Alabama. The win secured Duke’s 18th Final Four appearance, a testament to the program’s sustained excellence.
Houston: The Final Four’s Top Seed
Duke will face Houston, which enters the Final Four as the top seed in the Midwest Region. The Cougars earned their spot by cruising past Tennessee 69-50 in the Elite Eight. Houston has been a dominant force all season, thanks to their relentless defense and efficient offense. The Cougars have made it to the Final Four for the seventh time in school history and are hungry for their first national championship since 1984. This matchup between Duke and Houston is expected to be a tactical battle, with Duke’s high-flying offense going up against Houston’s suffocating defense.
The Other Final Four Matchup
The other semifinal will feature Florida, a team that has surprised many this tournament, facing off against either Auburn or Michigan State. Florida’s strong defensive play and impressive tournament run have earned them a place in the Final Four for the first time in 11 years.
Looking Ahead
Duke’s matchup with Houston promises to be a thrilling contest with contrasting styles. Duke’s fast-paced attack will look to break through Houston’s tough defense, while the Cougars will try to control the tempo and limit Duke’s scoring opportunities. With both teams hungry for glory, the semifinal between Duke and Houston will be one to watch closely as March Madness reaches its pinnacle. The winners will advance to the national championship game on April 7, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas.
