The NIT Bracket—yeah, that little sibling of the NCAA Tournament that sometimes gets overshadowed, but hey, there’s gold to be found if you know where to dig. For those of us who have a soft spot for Cinderella stories, the NIT is the underdog playground where big names crash and burn, while smaller programs suddenly light it up. And while the thrill of these upsets is what makes it fun to watch, if you’re betting on it, you need to know which teams are more likely to serve you up some sweet victory and which ones will leave you questioning your life choices. So, let’s break it down.
What’s the Deal with the NIT Bracket Anyway?
So, here’s the thing about the NIT Bracket: It’s not the NCAA Tournament, but it’s not a random group of college teams just trying to make a name for themselves, either. These are schools that, for one reason or another, didn’t make the big dance but still had solid seasons. Some of them are flat-out pissed about it—imagine being on the cusp of greatness only to be told, “Sorry, better luck next time.” That chip on their shoulder? Huge advantage. Other teams, well, they’re just happy to be there. But I wouldn’t count on them making any noise.
The NIT has a unique vibe. The teams in this tournament are hungry, so you can expect some high-energy matchups. You know, that desperation when you want to make a statement. Anyway, let’s dive into the ones I’m putting my chips on—and those I’d bet against, no matter how much the odds say I’m crazy.
Teams You Should Bet On in the 2025 NIT Bracket
1. Florida State Seminoles
Okay, I’ve got a soft spot for FSU. They may not have made the NCAA Tournament, but they’re a whole different beast when they feel disrespected—and trust me, they’re feeling it this year. Florida State has a deep roster. Like, I’m talking one of those teams where you look at their bench and think, “Wait, you’ve got 12 guys who can all shoot?” FSU’s athleticism is one of those “just let them run and watch the chaos” situations, and in the NIT? That’s gold.
And let’s talk about Leonard Hamilton. The dude knows how to win in the postseason. Whether it’s the ACC Tournament or the NIT, he knows how to get his teams to peak when it counts. I’d be putting money on FSU to make a deep run. And not just for bragging rights—FSU’s talent can compete with the best in the country, and I wouldn’t be shocked if they end up winning it all.
2. North Texas Mean Green
Okay, I need to be real with you: I didn’t expect to like North Texas this much. But man, after watching them grind through a few games, I’m sold. Their defense-first mentality makes them a nightmare for any team in the NIT. You know how some teams rely on high-scoring affairs to win? North Texas? They’ll choke the life out of you with their suffocating defense and slow the whole game down. And honestly? That could be the perfect formula in a tournament like this.
Here’s the thing: North Texas has a chip on their shoulder. They’ve made some noise in postseason tournaments before, and they don’t get rattled easily. If you’re looking for a team to bet on who will be flying under the radar, these guys are dangerous. The Mean Green could sneak through to the finals like a ninja in the night.
3. Indiana Hoosiers
Alright, full disclosure: I’m an Indiana fan (I know, I know, don’t judge me). But even if I wasn’t, I’d still say they’ve got a legit shot in the NIT Bracket. The Hoosiers have the talent. They’ve got size. They’ve got veterans who know how to get things done when it matters most. The biggest knock on them is their inconsistency. One game, they’re playing like the next national champs. The next? You’re looking at them like, “How did you lose to that team?”
But here’s the kicker: If they put it all together—if they finally manage to play at the level they’re capable of—this team could be a serious problem. I’ll put my money on the Hoosiers to make a deep run, and if they get hot? Watch out.
4. Texas A&M Aggies
Look, Texas A&M is like that friend who says they’re “chill” but then suddenly hits you with a super competitive game of Monopoly—and you’re like, “Wait, when did this happen?” The Aggies are not flashy, but they can grind out wins, especially with their defense. Coach Buzz Williams has built a squad that’s got a lot of grit, and let’s face it, that kind of mentality thrives in the postseason.
A&M’s defense will frustrate teams in the NIT Bracket. Their offense is good, but it’s not exactly top-tier stuff. What’s going to make the difference here? Their ability to wear you down, slow the game down, and then strike at just the right moment. Texas A&M isn’t going to blow you away with flash, but they will frustrate you until you’re begging for mercy.
5. Syracuse Orange
Syracuse always has a way of showing up when it matters, even when you least expect it. And let’s be honest, the 2-3 zone? That’s not just some gimmick. It’s like a scary mystery puzzle where you’re never really sure how to beat it. When the Orange are firing on all cylinders, they’re a nightmare. They’ve been through the postseason grind more times than I’ve eaten cereal for dinner (which is a lot, by the way).
Coach Jim Boeheim has been doing this longer than I’ve been alive—and his system still works. And even if the talent this year isn’t overwhelming, the postseason experience is. Syracuse could go far in the NIT Bracket if their defense holds up. Bet on them to surprise everyone.
Teams You Should Steer Clear Of in the 2025 NIT Bracket
1. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
So, full transparency: I have a soft spot for Wake Forest because I once met their mascot at a game, and it was the most awkward handshake I’ve ever had. But beyond my mascot-related trauma, Wake Forest just can’t seem to pull it together when it counts. They’ve got talent, sure. But they play like they’ve got no idea what to do when it’s crunch time. Close games? They’re a trainwreck.
Now, I know what you’re thinking—“But they could be the sleeper pick!” Nah. I’ve seen this story before, and it never ends well. Wake Forest just doesn’t seem like a team that can get it together for the long haul in a tournament like the NIT. You’re better off betting against them.
2. Michigan Wolverines
Here’s a little secret about Michigan: they have all the tools to be great, but they just can’t put them together. The talent is there, and their ceiling is high—but the inconsistency? Ugh, it’s like watching a car with a brand-new engine sputter out of the driveway. Injuries and lineup changes have left Michigan scrambling all season long. Do you trust them to put it all together for a tournament run? I sure don’t.
The Wolverines’ chances in the NIT Bracket are a bit like my attempts at DIY home repairs: full of potential, but ultimately doomed to fail. Stay away.
3. UCLA Bruins
UCLA? Usually a powerhouse. But this year? They’re like that friend who was really good at their job—until the pandemic hit, and now they’re kinda…lost. They’ve been battling injuries and just don’t seem like the team we’ve seen in years past. Do they have the talent to make a deep run? Sure. But can they stay healthy and consistent enough to get it done? Big question mark.
Bet on UCLA at your own risk. This year, the Bruins just don’t seem like the same monster that once made their way to the top. They’re not a team I’m trusting in the NIT Bracket.
4. Louisville Cardinals
Louisville is… well, let’s just say they’re a mess this season. The Cardinals have been all over the place. I’m talking hot mess energy. They can’t defend to save their lives, and their offense? Even worse. It’s like watching a bad reality show—you’re invested, but deep down you know you’re wasting your time. It’s painful.
Louisville’s lack of defense and inconsistent offense make them one of the easiest teams to bet against in the NIT Bracket. Trust me, I’d save your money and bet elsewhere.
Wrap-Up
Alright, folks, the NIT Bracket is gonna be full of surprises, as usual. Florida State, North Texas, and Indiana are my picks to go deep and give you a shot at a solid return on your bets. Meanwhile, Wake Forest, Michigan, and Louisville? Steer clear. If you want your betting experience to be a fun, somewhat predictable rollercoaster, those are the teams I’d avoid.
