With the men's NCAA Tournament kicking off, fans across the nation are diving into their bracket predictions, including some of the biggest names in pop culture and politics. UConn, boasting an impressive 29-5 record and a No. 2 seed, is a hot pick for a deep run in the East Region.
However, their shaky end to the Big East season has some predicting an early exit. Let’s dive into how some celebrities see UConn’s journey unfolding.
Barack Obama: Sweet 16
Former President Barack Obama’s bracket predictions have become a beloved tradition. This year, he’s got UConn cruising through the first weekend in Philadelphia, easily handling Furman in the Round of 64 and then taking down the winner of UCLA vs.
UCF in the Round of 32. However, Obama predicts UConn’s run will end in the Sweet 16 against Michigan State, unable to replicate their preseason success.
Yung Gravy: National Championship Game
Comedy hip-hop artist Yung Gravy is all in on UConn, projecting them to reach the national championship game before falling to Wisconsin. However, his confidence might be misplaced as Wisconsin was already upset by No. 12 seed High Point in the tournament’s first major shocker.
Metallica: Round of 32
The legendary band Metallica is sticking with their roots, backing hometown favorites UCLA to upset UConn in the second round. Their bracket envisions the No. 7-seeded Bruins pulling off a Cinderella run, culminating in a national title victory over Michigan.
Snoop Dogg: Elite Eight
Snoop Dogg sees UConn making a strong push, defeating Furman, UCLA, and Louisville on their way to the Elite Eight. However, he predicts their journey will be halted by No. 1 seed Duke in the East regional final.
Stephon Castle: Winner
Former UConn star Stephon Castle is banking on his alma mater, predicting a repeat of their 2024 title triumph. He envisions UConn as one of three No. 3 seeds in the Final Four, ultimately defeating Iowa State for the championship.
Stanford Steve: Final Four
ESPN personality Steve Coughlin, aka "Stanford Steve," is showing his Connecticut pride. He has the Huskies overcoming Kansas in the Elite Eight but sees their run ending in the national semifinals against Houston.
These celebrity brackets add an extra layer of excitement to the tournament, showcasing a mix of loyalty, strategy, and a little bit of fun. As the games unfold, only time will tell whose predictions hit the mark.