In a year defined by surprises and letdowns, the 2024-25 men’s college basketball season has been a thrilling ride. One of the biggest controversies heading into March Madness is the snubbing of West Virginia from the tournament field, but the focus now shifts to the No. 2 seeds, each of whom has a legitimate path to a deep tournament run. Let’s break down each No. 2 seed and assess their chances of winning it all.
St. John’s Red Storm (West Region, 30-4)
Tournament expectations for St.John’s National Championship. Rick Pitino’s revival of St. John’s has been one of the most captivating stories in college basketball. Earlier this month, the Red Storm appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon after securing their first Big East regular-season championship since 1992. The team is led by 6-foot-7 forward RJ Luis Jr. (18.1 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.4 SPG) and boasts a top-three defense nationally. While their offense leaves much to be desired—shooting just 29.9% from three—their defensive profile is reminiscent of Pitino’s Louisville teams that reached the Final Four in 2012 and won it all in 2013. If history repeats itself, the Red Storm could be cutting down the nets in April.
Tennessee Volunteers (Midwest Region, 27-7)
Tournament expectations could see the Vols in the Final Four or National Championship. Tennessee has been a model of inconsistency at times—losing by 30 to Florida at its worst and beating that same team by 20 at its best. However, the Volunteers enter March Madness with the nation’s top-ranked defense in adjusted efficiency on KenPom, having held 12 regular-season opponents under 60 points. Zakai Zeigler (13.1 PPG, 7.5 APG, 1.9 SPG) has elevated his game, and key transfers Chaz Lanier (17.9 PPG, 41% 3PT) and Igor Milicic Jr. (10.2 PPG, 7.3 RPG) have solidified the rotation. If Rick Barnes is indeed considering retirement, he has a roster capable of delivering a storybook ending.
Alabama Crimson Tide (East Region, 25-8)
Tournament expectations see Alabama in the Sweet 16 with a Chance at a Final Four. Alabama’s high-octane offense is among the best in the country, ranking top-five in adjusted offensive efficiency. Led by Mark Sears (19.2 PPG, 5.0 APG), the Crimson Tide play at the fastest pace in America. However, their defense is a glaring weakness, having allowed 85 or more points in 11 games this season. Their 3-4 finish to the regular season included losses to tournament teams Auburn, Missouri, Tennessee, and Florida—but they also secured key wins against Kentucky and Mississippi State. An injury to Grant Nelson in the SEC tournament could impact their depth, making their path to a deep run more difficult.
Michigan State Spartans (South Region, 27-6)
Tournament expectations for this old blue blood is Final Four or bust. Tom Izzo’s Spartans have the defensive foundation necessary for a deep tournament run, ranking among the top five nationally. Jase Richardson, son of former Spartan and NBA star Jason Richardson, has emerged as their go-to player, averaging 16.8 PPG in the final nine regular-season games. Michigan State lacks elite offensive firepower, shooting just 30.2% from three, but their grittiness and defensive discipline helped them secure the Big Ten regular-season title after a seven-game winning streak. Izzo has a history of getting the most out of his teams in March, and this group has a Final Four ceiling.
Which No. 2 Seed Has the Best Shot at the Title?
Among these four teams, St. John’s and Tennessee appear best positioned for a deep run and a potential national championship. St. John’s elite defense and Pitino’s championship pedigree make them a dangerous opponent, even with their offensive struggles. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s dominant defense and balanced roster provide them with a chance to avenge last season’s Elite Eight loss and finally break through to a title.
Alabama’s defensive woes and Michigan State’s lack of offensive firepower make them longer shots, but both have the potential to reach the Final Four with the right matchups.
As the tournament tips off, all eyes will be on these No. 2 seeds to see who can make the biggest statement in March Madness.
