Every year, March Madness delivers unforgettable upsets and dramatic storylines as lower-seeded teams defy expectations. These “Cinderella” teams capture the hearts of basketball fans by taking down the giants of college basketball and making deep runs in the tournament.
As we gear up for the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, here are five potential Cinderella teams that could shake up the bracket and make headlines.
1. UC San Diego Tritons (No. 12 Seed, South Region)
The UC San Diego Tritons have made a stunning entrance into the NCAA tournament scene, qualifying in their first year of eligibility. With a defense that ranks among the nation’s best in forcing turnovers, they pose a serious threat to higher-seeded teams.
Their first-round matchup against Michigan is particularly intriguing, as the Wolverines have struggled with ball security. If UCSD can capitalize on this weakness, they could become one of the biggest bracket-busting teams of the year.
2. VCU Rams (No. 11 Seed, East Region)
The VCU Rams are no strangers to tournament magic, having made a historic Final Four run in 2011. This year’s team is built around a suffocating defense that leads the nation in effective field goal percentage defense.
With a shot-blocking presence in the paint and a gritty backcourt, VCU has all the ingredients needed for an upset. Their opening-round matchup against BYU will be a test of their defensive discipline, but if they execute their game plan, another deep run could be in the making.
3. Colorado State Rams (No. 12 Seed, West Region)
Riding a ten-game winning streak, Colorado State is one of the hottest teams entering the tournament. Their balanced offense and strong perimeter shooting give them a legitimate chance to take down higher-seeded opponents.
Facing Memphis in the first round, the Rams’ momentum and confidence could be the key to pulling off an upset and making a memorable Cinderella run.
4. Drake Bulldogs (No. 11 Seed, West Region)
Drake has quietly put together an impressive 30-3 record, largely fueled by a relentless defense and a disciplined offensive approach. The Bulldogs have been particularly effective at shutting down opposing scorers, making them a nightmare matchup for any team.
They’ll face Missouri in the first round, and many analysts believe they have what it takes to advance past the first weekend. If Drake can dictate the tempo and control the boards, they could emerge as one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.
5. Yale Bulldogs (No. 14 Seed, South Region)
Known for their sharpshooting ability, the Yale Bulldogs are a team that can change the momentum of a game in an instant. With a 40% three-point shooting percentage, they are one of the most dangerous underdogs in the tournament.
Their first-round opponent, Texas A&M, will need to be on high alert, as Yale’s ability to stretch the floor and score in bunches makes them a serious threat to pull off an upset.
Final Thoughts
March Madness is all about unpredictability, and these teams have the potential to make history. Whether through suffocating defense, red-hot shooting, or sheer momentum, they each have the ability to capture the nation’s attention.
As the tournament unfolds, keep an eye on these potential Cinderella stories—they may just be the ones cutting down the nets in the later rounds.
