With the NCAA Tournament bracket officially set, basketball analysts have begun revealing their national championship picks. Among the most confident selections came from ESPN’s Jay Bilas, who didn’t hesitate in naming the Florida Gators as his pick to cut down the nets in April.
Why Jay Bilas Chose The Florida Gators
ESPN analyst Jay Bilas’ Final Four selections featured all four No. 1 seeds: Auburn, Florida, Duke, and Houston. While picking all top seeds may seem “chalk,” it certainly caught the attention of college basketball fans.
Jay Bilas is the Michael Jordan of picking four #1 seeds to go to the Final 4 on the Bracketology show
— Matt Mullin (@24_ballinMullin) March 17, 2025
“I just happen to think that Florida is the best team in the country,” Bilas stated on the show. “And I think it’s gonna be Florida and Houston in the championship game…we’ve all watched Florida play.
He joked, “The size of their frontline, they’re like an unbelievable hockey team.”
His confidence in Florida isn’t misplaced. The Gators have been dominant all season long, finishing with a stellar 30-4 record and securing their first SEC Tournament title since 2014. Their impressive tournament run saw them take down Missouri, Alabama, and Tennessee, cementing their status as the team to beat heading into March Madness.
Historically, Florida has thrived when given a No. 1 seed. The last three times the Gators earned a top seed in the NCAA Tournament—2007, 2014, and now 2025—they reached the Final Four.
Their back-to-back national championships in 2006 and 2007 remain some of the most dominant performances in tournament history, and this year’s squad looks capable of making a similar run.
Florida’s Championship Potential
Under head coach Todd Golden, Florida boasts an elite combination of size, depth, and defensive tenacity. Their frontcourt presence is a major factor in Bilas’ confidence, as the Gators have overwhelmed opponents in the paint all season long. Offensively, they’re balanced and efficient, with multiple scoring threats capable of taking over games.
Their potential championship path won’t be easy, though. If Bilas’ prediction holds true, a championship showdown with Houston rising and Big 12 Champions, a battle between two of the most complete teams in college basketball. The Cougars’ elite defense could pose problems, but Florida’s versatility and experience give them the upper hand.
KEEP READING: SEC Teams Dominate 2025 NCAA Tournament Field with 12 Entrants
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on the Gators to see if they can live up to the hype. With a No. 1 seed, a dominant SEC run, and the backing of one of college basketball’s most respected analysts, Florida is undoubtedly a favorite to capture the 2025 national championship.
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