When it comes to March Madness, everyone has an opinion, and they seldom hesitate to share their March Madness bracket predictions with you. You've likely already heard who your brother, best friend, and even dry cleaner are picking this year, but what would artificial intelligence think of the Big Dance, and better yet, what would a bracket of computer-generated March Madness picks look like?
Wonder no longer! We asked ChatGPT to give us projections for every matchup in this year's tournament, factoring in current odds and past trends, plus accounting for the chaos involved with a tournament full of college kids.
The result is an AI March Madness bracket with its fair share of chalky picks as well as a few serious surprises (we're looking at you, San Diego State). Read the NCAAB picks and analysis below to find out who ChatGPT thinks will be the last team standing on April 7.
March Madness picks methodology
ChatGPT is an impressive AI-powered language model, but it still struggles at times with betting news and topical information.
Fortunately we brought it up to speed by feeding it the latest statistical and sports betting data available. That included March Madness odds for all 68 teams, strength of schedule rankings, regular season records, and advanced metrics like adjusted tempo, offensive efficiency, defensive efficiency, and efficiency margin.
We then provided ChatGPT with historical information from recent iterations of the NCAA Tournament. We asked it to consider the likelihood of March Madness upsets in certain first and second-round matchups. It responded by spitting out a round-by-round breakdown with outcomes and score predictions for every March Madness game. We were especially excited to see the level of in-depth analysis in the later rounds and for the National Championship Game, in particular.
ChatGPT may not have chosen the same champ as some of our in-house college basketball experts, but it's hard to argue with its logic, as you'll see below.
First Four predictions
Alabama State vs. Saint Francis PA: Alabama State wins 68-62
Alabama State's strong defense and rebounding advantage propel them past Saint Francis PA in a competitive game.
San Diego State vs. North Carolina: San Diego State wins 74-70
San Diego State's disciplined offense and experience in close games give them the edge over North Carolina.
American vs. Mount St. Mary's: American wins 66-60
American's balanced scoring and effective perimeter shooting leads them to victory against Mount St. Mary's.
Texas vs. Xavier: Texas wins 78-74
Texas's athleticism and depth overcome Xavier's resilience in a high-scoring affair.
First Round predictions
First round - East Region
Duke vs. American: Duke wins 85-60
As the tournament favorite at +340, Duke's depth and talent should easily overcome American.
Mississippi State vs. Baylor: Baylor wins 78-74
Baylor's experience in close games gives them a slight edge over Mississippi State.
Oregon vs. Liberty: Oregon wins 72-68
A competitive matchup, but Oregon's strength of schedule prepares them well for Liberty's challenge.
Arizona vs. Akron: Akron wins 70-68
Akron's strong defense and tournament experience position them for an upset over Arizona.
BYU vs. VCU: BYU wins 76-72
BYU's balanced offense should prevail against VCU's aggressive defense.
Wisconsin vs. Montana: Wisconsin wins 80-65.
Wisconsin's robust Big Ten performance suggests a comfortable victory over Montana.
Saint Mary's vs. Vanderbilt: Saint Mary's wins 74-70
Saint Mary's strong season and tournament pedigree give them an edge over Vanderbilt.
Alabama vs. Robert Morris: Alabama wins 88-60
Alabama's high-scoring offense and SEC dominance should overwhelm Robert Morris.
First round - West Region
Florida vs. Norfolk State: Florida wins 82-60
Florida's strong season, including a 30-4 record and an SEC championship, positions them as clear favorites against Norfolk State.
UConn vs. Oklahoma: UConn wins 75-70
Despite a season of inconsistency, UConn's quest for a historic three-peat and their experience in the tournament give them an edge over Oklahoma.
Memphis vs. Colorado State: Memphis wins 78-65
Memphis's 29-5 record and automatic berth from the American Conference highlight their strength against Colorado State.
Maryland vs. Grand Canyon: Maryland wins 80-68
Maryland's solid Big Ten performance and 25-8 record should overcome Grand Canyon's challenge.
Missouri vs. Drake: Drake wins 72-70
Drake's top-ranked defense and standout player Bennett Stirtz position them for an upset over Missouri.
Texas Tech vs. UNC Wilmington: Texas Tech wins 74-68.
Texas Tech's experience in the Big 12 and strong season suggest a victory against UNC Wilmington.
Kansas vs. Arkansas: Kansas wins 77-75.
A tightly contested game, but Kansas's resilience and experience give them a slight edge over Arkansas.
St. John's vs. Omaha: St. John's wins 85-60
Under coach Rick Pitino, St. John's boasts a robust defense and standout player RJ Luis Jr., making them strong contenders against Omaha.
First round - Midwest Region
Houston vs. SIUE: Houston wins 85-55
As the No. 1 seed in the Midwest region, Houston's dominant performance this season positions them as heavy favorites against SIUE.
Gonzaga vs. Georgia: Gonzaga wins 80-70
Gonzaga's consistent tournament success and strong offense should overcome Georgia's defense.
Clemson vs. McNeese: Clemson wins 75-65
Clemson's experience in tight games gives them an edge over McNeese.
Purdue vs. High Point: Purdue wins 82-60
Purdue's size and skill advantage should lead to a comfortable victory against High Point.
Illinois vs. Texas: Illinois wins 78-74
A close matchup, but Illinois's balanced attack gives them a slight advantage over Texas.
Kentucky vs. Troy: Kentucky wins 88-65
Kentucky's depth and talent make them strong contenders against Troy.
UCLA vs. Utah State: UCLA wins 80-68
UCLA's tournament experience and strong defense should prevail against Utah State.
Tennessee vs. Wofford: Tennessee wins 85-55
Tennessee's high-scoring offense and SEC dominance should overwhelm Wofford.
First round - South Region
Auburn vs. Alabama State: Auburn wins 85-60
Auburn's strong performance this season positions them as clear favorites against Alabama State.
Louisville vs. Creighton: Creighton wins 78-74
Creighton's balanced offense and experience in close games give them a slight edge over Louisville.
Michigan vs. UC San Diego: Michigan wins 80-65
Michigan's depth and talent should overcome UC San Diego's challenge.
Texas A&M vs. Yale: Texas A&M wins 72-68
A tight matchup, but Texas A&M's resilience in close games favors them.
Mississippi vs. San Diego State: San Diego State wins 74-70
San Diego State's defensive prowess is likely to stifle Mississippi's offense.
Iowa State vs. Lipscomb: Iowa State wins 76-60
Iowa State's strong season suggests a comfortable victory over Lipscomb.
Marquette vs. New Mexico: Marquette wins 82-68
Marquette's superior scoring ability should prevail against New Mexico.
Michigan State vs. Bryant: Michigan State wins 79-55.
Michigan State's experience and talent make them heavy favorites in this matchup.
- Favorites picked (based on seeds): 27/32
- ATS Favorites picked to cover: 15/29 (Auburn, Duke, Illinois not included + Saint Mary's picked as a push)
Second Round
Second round - East Region
Duke vs. Baylor: Duke wins 80-72
Duke's standout freshman, Cooper Flagg, has been pivotal in their tournament run, averaging 18 points and 9 rebounds per game. Baylor's V.J. Edgecombe poses a significant challenge, but Duke's depth and experience should prevail.
Oregon vs. Akron: Oregon wins 68-65
Oregon's balanced offense has been effective this season. Akron's strong defense will make it a close game, but Oregon's experience may give them the edge.
BYU vs. Wisconsin: Wisconsin wins 70-66
Wisconsin's efficient offense and solid defense have been consistent this season. BYU's resilience could make it a tight game, but Wisconsin's experience may see them through.
Saint Mary's vs. Alabama: Saint Mary's wins 74-70
Saint Mary's strong season and tournament pedigree give them an edge over Alabama. Alabama's high-scoring offense will challenge Saint Mary's defense, but the latter's experience may prevail.
Second round - West Region
Florida vs. UConn: Florida wins 78-74
Florida's balanced offense and strong defense have propelled them to a high seed in the tournament. UConn's resilience and tournament experience make them formidable, but Florida's depth and versatility are likely to secure them the win.
Memphis vs. Maryland: Memphis wins 80-72
Memphis's high-scoring offense, led by standout guard Kendrick Davis, has been a key factor in their tournament run. Maryland's defense will pose challenges, but Memphis's offensive firepower should prevail.
Drake vs. Texas Tech: Drake wins 68-65
Analysis: Drake's strong defense and recent tournament success, including a Missouri Valley Conference title, position them well. Texas Tech's experience and grit make it a close matchup, but Drake's momentum may carry them through.
Kansas vs. St. John's: Kansas wins 82-70
Kansas's consistent excellence in the Big 12 and balanced play make them a tough opponent. St. John's dynamic offense will challenge Kansas's defense, but the latter's depth and experience should secure the victory.
Second round - South Region
Auburn vs. Creighton: Auburn wins 78-70
Auburn, as the overall No. 1 seed, has demonstrated consistent dominance throughout the season, boasting a 28-5 record and strong performances in the SEC. Their depth and experience should overcome Creighton's challenges.
Michigan vs. Texas A&M: Michigan wins 74-68
Michigan's balanced offense and solid defense have propelled them to a strong season, while Texas A&M has faced inconsistencies. Michigan's resilience in close games gives them an edge.
San Diego State vs. Iowa State: San Diego State wins 68-65
San Diego State's top-ranked defense and tournament experience position them for a narrow victory over Iowa State.
Marquette vs. Michigan State: Marquette wins 76-70
Marquette's high-scoring offense and Michigan State's recent struggles suggest a favorable outcome for Marquette.
Second round - Midwest Region
Houston vs. Gonzaga: Houston wins 76-70
Houston's exceptional defense, allowing just 58.5 points per game, has been a cornerstone of their success. Gonzaga's high-scoring offense, led by Ryan Nembhard's 9.8 assists per game, presents a formidable challenge, but Houston's defensive prowess is likely to prevail.
Clemson vs. Purdue: Purdue wins 82-75
Purdue's dominant offense, averaging 82 points per game, and strong defense make them a tough opponent. Clemson's resilience and scoring ability will test Purdue, but the latter's balanced play is expected to secure the win.
Illinois vs. Kentucky: Illinois wins 74-70
Illinois's consistent performance and solid defense have been key to their success this season. Kentucky's dynamic offense will challenge Illinois, but the latter's experience and defensive strength should lead them to victory.
UCLA vs. Tennessee: Tennessee wins 68-65
Tennessee's robust defense, allowing just 60.7 points per game, has been a defining feature this season. UCLA's offensive capabilities will be tested against Tennessee's defense, but the Volunteers' resilience is likely to secure them the win.
- Favorites picked (based on seed): 8/16
Popular March Madness markets
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Sweet 16
Duke vs. Oregon: Duke wins 82-70
Duke's roster, featuring three projected lottery picks including standout freshman Cooper Flagg, has been a dominant force this season, compiling a 31-1 record. Oregon's balanced offense and experience make them formidable, but Duke's superior talent and depth are likely to prevail in this matchup.
Wisconsin vs. Saint Mary's: Wisconsin wins 74-68
Wisconsin's efficient offense and solid defense have been consistent throughout the season, earning them a high seed in the tournament. Saint Mary's strong season and tournament pedigree make them a tough opponent, but Wisconsin's experience and balanced play are expected to secure them a victory.
Florida vs. Memphis: Florida wins 77-74
Florida's dynamic offense, led by standout guard Walter Clayton, has been a driving force in their tournament success. Memphis's resilience and high-scoring capabilities make them a formidable opponent, but Florida's balanced attack and experience may secure them the victory.
Drake vs. Kansas: Kansas wins 80-68.
Kansas's consistent excellence in the Big 12, coupled with their deep tournament experience, positions them as strong contenders. Drake's impressive 30-3 record and defensive prowess are commendable, but Kansas's depth and talent are likely to prevail in this matchup.
Auburn vs. Michigan: Auburn wins 76-72
Auburn's depth and experience have propelled them to the Sweet 16, making them a formidable opponent. However, Michigan's resilience and strategic play could make this a closely contested game.
San Diego State vs. Marquette: San Diego State wins 70-68
San Diego State's strong defense has been a key factor in their tournament run. Marquette's high-scoring offense will challenge San Diego State's defense, making for an exciting matchup.
Houston vs. Purdue: Houston wins 78-74
Houston's robust defense and momentum from a 13-game winning streak, including a Big 12 tournament title, position them strongly. Purdue's recent struggles, losing six of their last nine games, may hinder their progress against Houston's relentless play.
Illinois vs. Tennessee: Tennessee wins 70-68
Tennessee's impressive defensive efficiency, ranking third nationally, has been a cornerstone of their success. Illinois's offensive capabilities will be tested against Tennessee's defense, and the Volunteers' resilience may secure them the win.
- Favorites picked (based on seed): 8/8
Elite Eight
Duke vs. Wisconsin: Duke wins 78-70
Duke's dynamic offense, led by standout freshman Cooper Flagg, has been a driving force this season. Wisconsin's disciplined play and experience make them formidable, but Duke's superior talent and depth are likely to prevail.
Florida vs. Kansas: Florida wins 76-74
Florida's balanced offense and strong defense have propelled them to a high seed in the tournament. Kansas's consistent excellence and depth make them a tough opponent, but Florida's versatility may secure the win.
Auburn vs. San Diego State: Auburn wins 72-68
Analysis: Auburn's strong season has positioned them as a top seed, showcasing resilience and talent. San Diego State's defensive prowess and tournament experience make them formidable, but Auburn's momentum may carry them through.
Houston vs. Tennessee: Houston wins 70-65
Houston's exceptional defense and momentum from a 13-game winning streak, including a Big 12 tournament title, position them strongly. Tennessee's robust defense and resilience pose challenges, but Houston's high level of play is likely to prevail.
Final Four
Auburn vs. Florida: Florida wins 74-70
Florida's Gators have demonstrated consistent excellence throughout the season, securing a No. 1 seed in the tournament. Their dynamic offense, led by standout guard Walter Clayton Jr., has been a driving force, averaging 78 points per game. Florida's depth and versatility have been key to their success, with multiple players stepping up in crucial moments. In contrast, Auburn, also a No. 1 seed, has faced challenges recently, losing three of their past four games. While their defense remains a strong suit, allowing an average of 65 points per game, their recent form raises concerns. Florida's momentum and balanced attack are likely to overcome Auburn's defensive strengths, propelling the Gators to the national championship game.
Duke vs. Houston: Duke wins 68-65
Duke's Blue Devils, led by freshman sensation Cooper Flagg, have been a dominant force this season. Flagg's return from an ankle injury has reinvigorated the team's offense, averaging 80 points per game. Their defense has been equally impressive, ranking in the top 10 nationally for points allowed. Houston's Cougars, under coach Kelvin Sampson, have been a formidable opponent, showcasing a physical brand of defense and a 13-game winning streak heading into the tournament. Their guards' ability to match up against Duke's perimeter players will be crucial. However, Duke's balanced attack and Flagg's leadership provide a slight edge, allowing the Blue Devils to secure a narrow victory and advance to the national championship game.
National Championship
Duke vs. Florida: Florida wins 74-70
Florida's journey to the championship has been marked by a balanced offensive attack and a resilient defense. Their victory in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) tournament solidified their status as national title contenders. Betting markets reflect this sentiment, with Florida listed at +350 odds to win the championship.
Duke's path to the finals has been characterized by their dynamic offense and strong defensive play. However, their recent losses have raised questions about their consistency. Analysts suggest that Duke's success heavily depends on Flagg's health and performance.
The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams boasting high-caliber talent and championship pedigrees. Florida's momentum and balanced play give them a slight edge, but Duke's resilience and star power make them formidable opponents.
Key players to watch:
Florida Gators: Walter Clayton Jr. has been instrumental in Florida's success, leading the team with an average of 20 points per game. His ability to drive to the basket and create scoring opportunities will be crucial in breaking Duke's defensive schemes.
Duke Blue Devils: Cooper Flagg, despite recent injury concerns, remains a pivotal player for Duke. Averaging a double-double, his presence in the paint and versatility on both ends of the court make him a constant threat.
- No. 1/2 seeds to reach the Elite Eight: 5
- No. 1/2 seeds to reach the Final Four: 4
- Double-digit seeds in the Sweet 16: 1
