2025 March Madness first round predictions: New Mexico vs. Marquette, UConn vs. Oklahoma

On Monday, Iona inexplicably dumped coach Tobin Anderson after only two seasons.Thursday, Fordham tried to top its neighbor, firing third-year coach Keith Urgo despite any meaningful NIL or facility investments. A reminder: Kevin Willard, now in his seventh NCAA Tournament, went 21-10 in his third season at Iona after going 24-39 in his first two years. Another reminder: There has been no Fordham coach in the past 53 years who won more games in a single season than the 25 that Urgo, the 2022-23 Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year, did in his first season. All odds are provided by BetMGM Sportsbook.Rick Pitino’s impact may be seen beyond St.

John’s.When the bracket was released, the coach of the Red Storm — who went 3-0 against Marquette this season — immediately texted the scouting report to his son, Richard, who has led New Mexico to the NCAA Tournament for the second straight year.

The help may not even be necessary.The Lobos (26-7) have gone 7-2 against tournament teams (UCLA, VCU, Utah State, Colorado State, San Diego State) this season, with a top 20 defense and offense averaging over 81 points, led by Mountain West Player of the Year Donovan Dent.

In the past two tournaments, the Golden Eagles were a No.2 seed.

Before that, Shaka Smart had lost six straight first-round games, including upsets to a 14-seed, 12-seed, 11-seed and 10-seed. The Huskies may advance, but they are back-to-back champs in name only.Without four starters from last season, UConn’s defense — a top 10 unit the past two seasons — has posted a worse efficiency rating than every power conference team in the tournament.

Dan Hurley can only do so much, as demonstrated in back-to-back one-and-done appearances before the championship runs.Want to tune into as much March Madness as you can? DIRECTV Stream and Hulu + Live TV both have you covered with every channel you’ll need, plus free trials.The Sooners — who are 12-6 as underdogs against the spread under coach Porter Moser,...