Alright, let’s dive right in: the NIT Bracket 2025 is shaping up to be one wild ride. Every March, a handful of teams that didn’t quite make it into the NCAA Tournament end up in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). For many, this is their second chance to shine, to show the world they were just one bad ref call away from making it to the Big Dance. But the NIT isn’t all about the underdogs—it’s a place for some legit surprises, too.

Now, I’ll be upfront with you: there are a bunch of teams that will make waves in this tournament, and there are others that… well, they’ll make you wonder how they even got invited. You’ve seen those teams that seem to always pull out the last-second buzzer-beaters and those that just flounder like a fish out of water. Let’s talk about which ones are worth watching—and which ones might disappoint.

The Importance of the NIT

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of teams to watch (or avoid), a little context. The NIT Bracket 2025 is like the backup quarterback of college basketball. It’s the tournament for those teams that didn’t make the NCAA cut but still want to show they’ve got the goods. It’s also a place for players to earn some extra shine, for coaches to prove their worth, and—honestly—a chance for fans to keep those basketball vibes going after the NCAA madness winds down.

So while the NIT may not get as much spotlight as the big dance, don’t sleep on it. These teams are hungry, and they’re going to do anything to prove they belong. It’s the ultimate “second-chance” tournament, and anything can happen when March madness meets redemption.

Surprising Teams to Watch in the NIT Bracket 2025

Let’s talk about the teams that could sneak into the NIT Bracket 2025 and, maybe, just maybe, surprise everyone. These are the squads that, on paper, might not be the favorites, but they’ve got something extra that could push them through.

1. North Carolina State (NC State)

I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a soft spot for NC State. They’ve been flirting with the bubble for a while, and if they miss the NCAA Tournament, the NIT Bracket 2025 might be their stage for redemption. Think about it: they’ve got firepower. Offensive threats, solid defense, and a coach who knows how to build a team from the ground up. (I mean, Coach Keatts has seen it all by now, right?)

Sure, they’ve been streaky—sometimes they look unbeatable, sometimes like they can’t find their rhythm. But hey, if they can tighten up the screws and play consistent basketball, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them make a surprise run. Plus, I’m convinced their fan base will give them that extra energy boost they need—nothing like a loud crowd to push you past a few tough opponents.

2. Michigan Wolverines

Now, Michigan is a bit of a head-scratcher. The Wolverines are a historically great program with serious talent. But for the past few years? It’s been a rollercoaster. I wouldn’t be shocked if they end up in the NIT Bracket 2025, but let’s be real: they’re not your typical NIT team. Michigan has talent that’s good enough to make a deep run if they find their rhythm. Their coaching staff is experienced, and that can make all the difference when the pressure’s on.

Once you get past their rough patches, Michigan’s offense is actually pretty exciting. Their young guys are hungry, and if they get the ball rolling, they’ll be a tough out for anyone. It’s one of those situations where you think, “Wait, they could do this, right?”

3. Indiana Hoosiers

Ah, Indiana. The Hoosiers are a program with so much history, yet lately, they’ve been a bit of a wild card. They’ve been rebuilding for a while, but there’s potential. If they end up in the NIT Bracket 2025, they’re one of those teams you might sleep on—until they hit you with an upset that leaves your jaw on the floor. They’ve got some big guys in the paint and experienced upperclassmen who are just waiting to step up when it matters most.

I won’t lie, I’m a sucker for a good defensive team, and Indiana’s defense is what could keep them in the mix for a long time. But let’s be real, their offense can be like watching a blender with no lid—crazy, unpredictable, and occasionally messy. If they can find consistency, though? Watch out. They might just prove me wrong.

4. Alabama Crimson Tide

Here’s the deal with Alabama: they could either make a deep NCAA run, or they could end up in the NIT Bracket 2025—it really depends on how their season shakes out. If Alabama doesn’t get their act together in the SEC, don’t be surprised if they show up in the NIT. They’ve got the pieces to be really dangerous, especially with their fast-paced, high-scoring offense. If they’re on fire from beyond the arc, they can beat anyone.

But—big but here—they need to lock down defensively. I don’t care how good your offense is; if you can’t stop your opponent from scoring, you’re gonna be in trouble. Alabama’s defense has been a little hit-or-miss over the years, so if they slip up, it could cost them. If they can find that defensive balance, though? They’ll be a problem for any team in the tournament.

5. Arizona State Sun Devils

Okay, hear me out. Arizona State is another team that’s been up-and-down, but there’s potential here. The Sun Devils have been the Pac-12’s puzzle piece for a while now—one that seems to be missing more often than not. If they find their rhythm, they could make a serious push in the NIT Bracket 2025. Their guard play is legit, and if their shots start falling, they can ride that momentum straight into the later rounds.

It’s all about consistency for Arizona State. They can beat the best teams one day and lose to the worst the next. But if they manage to hit that sweet spot? They’ll definitely be a team to watch.

Teams to Avoid in the NIT Bracket 2025

Now, let’s talk about the teams that may not be worth your time to keep an eye on. They’ve got issues that’ll probably prevent them from making a real impact on the NIT Bracket 2025, and while anything can happen, I wouldn’t bet on them going deep.

1. Nebraska Cornhuskers

Oh, Nebraska. They’ve been trying to rebuild for what feels like a decade, and frankly, it’s getting old. The Cornhuskers have been pretty bad in the Big Ten, and that’s not likely to change anytime soon. If they make it to the NIT, I’ll be honest, I’ll be shocked. They don’t have the talent to keep up with the bigger teams, and their lack of a go-to scorer is going to hurt them when it matters.

I’ve tried to cheer for Nebraska—really, I have—but it feels like watching a car stall in the middle of the highway. You know they have the potential to do something great, but they just… can’t get it together.

2. Oregon Ducks

Oregon’s one of those teams that just can’t seem to put everything together. They’ll give you glimpses of their potential, and then they’ll follow it up with a game that leaves you scratching your head. With their inconsistent play in the Pac-12, I’m not sure they’re built to go deep in the NIT. Sure, they’ve got some solid players, but they lack the defensive discipline and depth to keep up in a tournament setting.

Let’s put it this way: if Oregon’s in the NIT Bracket 2025, I wouldn’t expect much. They’re a team you’ll probably forget about after a couple of rounds.

3. Minnesota Golden Gophers

Minnesota is stuck in basketball purgatory right now. They don’t have the firepower to compete with the Big Ten’s heavyweights, and their overall lack of depth means they won’t go far in the NIT. They’ve been struggling for a while, and while they’ll make it into the tournament, it’s tough to imagine them doing anything meaningful in it.

Minnesota’s offense isn’t exactly what I’d call “explosive.” It’s more like watching a snail in a race, hoping it gets there eventually. Spoiler: it doesn’t.

4. Louisville Cardinals

Louisville was once a powerhouse, but the Cardinals are now more like a cautionary tale for college basketball programs in transition. Their coach’s seat is warm, and their performances have been all over the place. They’ve got talented players, but they lack the chemistry and consistency to make a run in the NIT Bracket 2025. More likely than not, Louisville will stumble early and quickly fade from the spotlight.

I think we all know by now: when your best days are behind you, making a deep run in the NIT isn’t exactly on the horizon.

5. Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Wake Forest has had flashes of potential, but in the NIT Bracket 2025, I’m not holding my breath. They’ve been a team that struggles against top-tier competition, and they haven’t been able to put it together when it matters most. Their defense is shaky, and they can’t seem to get any offensive flow going consistently. Not a good combo for a deep tournament run.

I’ll just say it: Wake Forest is like that person who shows up at the party without bringing any snacks. You know they’re not going to add anything, and you’re already planning your exit strategy.

Final Thoughts

Look, the NIT Bracket 2025 is going to be full of surprises. Some of these teams will pull off unexpected upsets, while others will fall flat. But hey, that’s why we love March basketball, right? Whether you’re rooting for a major underdog or a team that’s got the talent but not the consistency, it’s going to be an exciting ride. Just keep your eyes peeled and enjoy the chaos—because in the world of college basketball, anything can happen.