2025 Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament Bracket, Schedule, Results

The Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament returns to Indianapolis in 2025, promising an electrifying spectacle. The tournament, which has graced the city for the past several years, brings together the top teams from the Big Ten Conference in a battle for supremacy. The atmosphere at Gainbridge Fieldhouse crackles with anticipation as fans witness the culmination of a grueling conference season, with the coveted automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament hanging in the balance.

The tournament, which typically takes place in mid-March, provides a thrilling showcase of the nation’s premier collegiate basketball programs. Teams from across the Big Ten, including powerhouses like Purdue, Michigan, and Illinois, will converge on Indianapolis, eager to prove their worth. The tournament format consists of a double-elimination bracket, ensuring that every team has ample opportunity to compete and advance. Over the course of the three-day event, fans will witness intense rivalries, high-flying acrobatics, and unforgettable moments that will leave a lasting legacy in the annals of college basketball history.

The Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament is more than just a sporting event; it’s a cultural phenomenon that draws fans from across the country. Indianapolis embraces the tournament with a vibrant atmosphere, offering a wide array of activities and attractions for visitors. From the bustling bars and restaurants of downtown Indy to the vibrant arts and cultural scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The tournament also serves as a major economic driver for the city, generating millions of dollars in revenue for local businesses and creating a memorable experience for all who participate.

A Thrilling Championship Chase

The 2025 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament promises to be an electrifying spectacle, with 14 of the nation’s top teams vying for the championship trophy. The tournament, held in the iconic United Center in Chicago, will showcase some of the most talented players and coaches in college basketball. The competition will be fierce, and the atmosphere will be electric as fans from across the country gather to witness the crowning of a new Big Ten champion.

The tournament will feature several teams ranked among the nation’s elite. Defending champion Purdue will be looking to repeat its success, while other top contenders include Michigan, Illinois, and Ohio State. The tournament will also provide a platform for several up-and-coming teams to make a statement, including Indiana, Iowa, and Rutgers. With so many talented teams in the field, the tournament is sure to produce thrilling games and unforgettable moments.

The tournament will be played over three days, with the first round taking place on March 12th. The semifinals will be held on March 13th, and the championship game will be played on March 15th. All games will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN2.

Schedule

Date	Time	Matchup
March 12th	12:00 PM	Game 1
March 12th	2:30 PM	Game 2
March 12th	5:00 PM	Game 3
March 12th	7:30 PM	Game 4
March 13th	12:00 PM	Semifinal 1
March 13th	2:30 PM	Semifinal 2
March 15th	1:00 PM	Championship Game

Tickets for the tournament are now on sale. Fans can purchase tickets online or by calling the United Center box office.

Ticket Prices

Section	Price
Lower Level	$150
Upper Level	$100
Standing Room Only	$50

Rising Stars

The Big Ten tournament is a great opportunity for young players to showcase their talent on a national stage. In recent years, we have seen several rising stars emerge from the conference. Some of the players to watch this year include:

Jaden Ivey, Purdue
Keegan Murray, Iowa
Hunter Dickinson, Michigan

These players are all capable of having a breakout performance in the tournament and leading their teams to a title.

Tournament Upsets

The Big Ten tournament is known for its upsets. In recent years, we have seen several lower-seeded teams make a run to the championship game. Some of the most notable upsets in tournament history include:

These upsets show that anything is possible in the Big Ten tournament. Even the lowest-seeded teams have a chance to make a run to the championship game.

Elite Matchups and Defensive Battles

The 2025 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament promises to showcase some of the most elite matchups and defensive battles in college basketball. With several top-ranked teams vying for the title, fans can expect a thrilling tournament full of intense competition and high-stakes games.

Defensive Showdowns

While the Big Ten is renowned for its offensive firepower, several teams also boast exceptional defensive prowess. Michigan and Iowa, in particular, have established themselves as defensive juggernauts. Michigan’s suffocating defense, led by freshman phenom Jett Howard, has held opponents to an average of just 57 points per game. Iowa, on the other hand, has utilized its length and athleticism to wreak havoc on opposing offenses, forcing numerous turnovers and contesting shots.

Other teams to watch on the defensive side include Purdue, with its experienced frontcourt led by Zach Edey, and Illinois, with its versatile and athletic perimeter defense. The tournament will provide a stage for these defensive stalwarts to showcase their skills and make a statement.

Year	Winner	Loser
2017	Michigan	Purdue
2018	Penn State	Michigan State
2019	Michigan State	Purdue

Team	Defensive Rating
Michigan	69.7
Iowa	71.2
Purdue	72.9
Illinois	73.4

Emerging Contenders and Underdogs

Contenders

Several teams are poised to make a deep run in the 2025 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament. Michigan, with its talented backcourt led by Dug McDaniel and Jett Howard, is a top contender. Purdue, with a deep and experienced roster anchored by Caleb Furst and Zach Edey, is another favorite. Indiana, with standout Trayce Jackson-Davis, is also a threat, as is Illinois, with All-American candidate Matthew Mayer.

Underdogs

While the aforementioned teams are the current favorites, there are a few underdogs who could make some noise in the tournament. Iowa, with its high-scoring offense led by Keegan Murray, is always a threat. Rutgers, with its strong defense and experienced lineup, could also surprise. Minnesota, with a young but talented roster, is another team to watch.

Dark Horse: Wisconsin

Of all the potential underdogs, Wisconsin stands out as the most intriguing. The Badgers have been quietly building a strong program under Greg Gard and have a talented and experienced roster. Johnny Davis, Tyler Wahl, and Steven Crowl are all capable of stepping up and leading the team to a deep run in the tournament. Wisconsin’s defense, which has been among the best in the Big Ten in recent years, will be a key factor in their success.

The Road to Indianapolis: Previewing the First Round

Midwest Region

The Midwest region is set for a thrilling first round matchup between No. 5 seed Northwestern and No. 12 seed Penn State. The Wildcats enter the tournament as the No. 2 team in the Big Ten standings and a Top 25 team nationally. Led by senior guard Boo Buie and junior forward Pete Nance, Northwestern boasts a balanced offense and a strong defense. Penn State, on the other hand, secured a Big Ten Tournament berth as the No. 8 seed and will look to make a statement in Indianapolis. The Nittany Lions are led by senior forward John Harrar, who averages a double-double this season.

East Region

No. 6 seed Michigan State faces off against No. 11 seed Wisconsin in the East region. The Spartans enter the tournament on a hot streak, having won six of their last seven games. Senior forward Aaron Henry leads the way for Michigan State, averaging 16.0 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. Wisconsin, the No. 7 seed in the Big Ten, relies heavily on senior guard Brad Davison, who averages 14.5 points per game.

South Region

No. 7 seed Rutgers takes on No. 10 seed Indiana in the South region. The Scarlet Knights earned an NCAA Tournament berth with a strong finish to their regular season, including a signature win over Michigan State. Rutgers is led by senior guard Geo Baker, who averages 14.0 points per game. Indiana, the No. 6 seed in the Big Ten, will look to extend their season with a strong performance in Indianapolis. The Hoosiers are led by sophomore guard Trayce Jackson-Davis, who averages 21.0 points and 9.0 rebounds per game.

West Region

No. 8 seed Minnesota faces off against No. 9 seed Iowa in the West region. The Gophers secured a Big Ten Tournament berth with a late-season surge, including a win over Purdue. Minnesota is led by senior guard Marcus Carr, who averages 19.8 points per game. Iowa, the No. 5 seed in the Big Ten, will look to make a deep run in the tournament with a strong performance in Indianapolis. The Hawkeyes are led by junior guard Luka Garza, a National Player of the Year candidate who averages 23.7 points and 9.1 rebounds per game.

Big Ten Teams in the Tournament

Name	Position	Class
Johnny Davis	Guard	Senior
Tyler Wahl	Forward	Junior
Steven Crowl	Center	Junior
Chucky Hepburn	Guard	Sophomore
Connor Essegian	Forward	Freshman

Seed	Team
5	Northwestern
6	Michigan State
7	Rutgers
8	Minnesota
9	Iowa
10	Indiana
11	Wisconsin
12	Penn State

Quarterfinals: High-Stakes Showdown

The quarterfinals of the 2025 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament will feature eight of the conference’s top teams battling for a spot in the semifinals. With high stakes on the line, expect intense competition and thrilling matchups throughout the single-elimination round.

No. 1 Seed vs. No. 8 Seed

The top-seeded team in the tournament will face off against the eighth-seeded team, which emerged victorious from the first round. This matchup sets the stage for a clash between a dominant powerhouse and an underdog eager to make a statement.

No. 2 Seed vs. No. 7 Seed

The second-seeded team, who had a bye in the first round, will take on the seventh-seeded team. This pairing pits a strong contender against a team that has already proven its worth by defeating a higher-ranked opponent.

No. 3 Seed vs. No. 6 Seed

The third-seeded team will face a stern test against the sixth-seeded team. Both teams will have had a victory under their belt in the first round, setting the stage for a closely contested battle between two evenly matched squads.

No. 3 Seed Statistics:

Record

Points Per Game

Field Goal Percentage

10-5 (Big Ten)

75.8

45.3%

No. 6 Seed Statistics:

Record

Points Per Game

Field Goal Percentage

9-6 (Big Ten)

71.2

44.1%

No. 4 Seed vs. No. 5 Seed

The fourth-seeded team, who also had a bye in the first round, will take on the fifth-seeded team. This matchup promises to be a battle between two teams with similar strengths and weaknesses, making it an unpredictable clash.

Semifinals: March Madness Intensifies

The semifinals of the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament 2025 are set to take place on Saturday, March 14th, with the top four seeds all advancing to the final four. The semifinals will be played at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, and will feature some of the top college basketball teams in the country.

No. 1 Seed Purdue vs. No. 4 Seed Michigan State

The first semifinal matchup will feature the No. 1 seed Purdue Boilermakers taking on the No. 4 seed Michigan State Spartans. Purdue is the defending Big Ten Tournament champion and has been one of the most consistent teams in the country all season long. The Boilermakers are led by senior guard Jaden Ivey, who is one of the best players in the country. Michigan State is a veteran team that has been playing well lately, and they will be looking to pull off an upset in the semifinals.

No. 2 Seed Illinois vs. No. 3 Seed Wisconsin

The second semifinal matchup will feature the No. 2 seed Illinois Fighting Illini taking on the No. 3 seed Wisconsin Badgers. Illinois is one of the most talented teams in the country, and they are led by sophomore guard Ayo Dosunmu, who is one of the most dynamic players in college basketball. Wisconsin is a tough and physical team that has been playing well all season long. The Badgers are led by senior forward Ethan Happ, who is one of the best rebounders in the country.

Team	Seed	Record
Purdue	1	27-4
Michigan State	4	22-9
Illinois	2	26-5
Wisconsin	3	24-7

Championship Game: A Clash for the Title

The Final Four and Championship Showdown

The 2025 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament will crown its champion after a thrilling run through the bracket. The Final Four will bring together the top four teams in the conference, who will battle for a berth in the Championship Game. The final matchup will be a clash of titans, as the two most dominant teams in the Big Ten go head-to-head for the ultimate prize.

History of the Championship Game

The Championship Game of the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament has a rich history, dating back to the inaugural event in 1905. The tournament has seen some of the most iconic moments in college basketball, including buzzer-beaters, Cinderella runs, and legendary performances. The 2025 Championship Game is sure to add another unforgettable chapter to the tournament’s legacy.

Broadcast Information

The Championship Game will be broadcast live on CBS. The game will tip off at 3:00 PM ET on March 16, 2025. Fans can also stream the game live on Paramount+. CBS Sports will provide comprehensive coverage of the game, including pregame and postgame analysis.

Venue: United Center

The 2025 Championship Game will be held at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The United Center is one of the largest and most iconic sports arenas in the world, with a capacity of over 20,000 fans. The arena has hosted numerous major sporting events, including the NBA Finals, the NHL Stanley Cup Final, and the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.

Team Profiles

Team	Record	Head Coach
Purdue	26-7	Matt Painter
Indiana	25-8	Mike Woodson
Michigan State	24-9	Tom Izzo
Ohio State	23-10	Chris Holtmann

Expert Predictions

The Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament is always unpredictable, but there are a few teams that the experts are picking to reach the Championship Game. Purdue is the consensus favorite, followed by Indiana and Michigan State. Ohio State is also in the mix, but they will need to play their best basketball to upset one of the top three teams.

The Legacy of the 2025 Tournament

The 2025 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament will be remembered for its historic moments and indelible impact on the sport. Here are key aspects of its legacy:

The Eruption of Star Power

The tournament showcased an abundance of talented players, including:

Player	Team
Drew Timme	Purdue
Jalen Hood-Schifino	Indiana
Terrance Shannon Jr.	Ohio State

The Cinderella Story of Northwestern

Northwestern, a perennial underdog, stunned the tournament by advancing to the championship game for the first time in program history.

Purdue’s Redemption Triumph

After a disappointing regular season, Purdue redeemed themselves with a dominant tournament run, culminating in a thrilling championship victory over Michigan.

The Rise of a New Big Ten Power

Illinois emerged as a legitimate contender, reaching the tournament semifinals and establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

The Impact on NCAA Tournament Seeding

The tournament had a significant impact on the NCAA Tournament seeding, with Purdue earning a No. 1 seed and several other teams receiving favorable seedings.

A Showcase of College Basketball Excitement

The tournament provided unforgettable moments of drama, intensity, and high-level play, capturing the attention of fans nationwide.

Economic Impact on Indianapolis

The tournament brought a significant economic boost to Indianapolis, with hotels, restaurants, and local businesses experiencing a surge in revenue.

The Long-Term Impact

The 2025 tournament will be remembered as a watershed moment for the Big Ten Conference, leaving a lasting legacy of success, excitement, and inspiration.

The Path Ahead: Impact on College Basketball

Expansion of College Basketball Footprint

The tournament will establish Indianapolis as a prominent destination for college basketball, attracting fans and players nationwide. With its central location and accessible infrastructure, the city will become a hub for the sport.

Increased Revenue for Local Businesses

The tournament will generate significant economic benefits for Indianapolis businesses. Hotels, restaurants, bars, and other establishments will experience a surge in revenue as fans and teams flock to the city.

Tourism Boom for Indianapolis

The tournament will showcase Indianapolis to a global audience, promoting tourism and attracting visitors to the city. The increased exposure will boost the local economy and foster civic pride.

Enhanced Exposure for Big Ten Athletes

The tournament will provide a platform for Big Ten athletes to showcase their skills on a grand stage. The increased visibility will enhance their draft prospects and potentially lead to professional careers.

Boost for Big Ten Basketball Prestige

The tournament will further elevate the prestige of Big Ten basketball. By hosting the tournament in a major city, the conference will demonstrate its commitment to excellence and reinforce its status as a powerhouse in college basketball.

Showcase for Indiana’s Basketball Culture

The tournament will provide an opportunity to celebrate Indiana’s rich basketball culture. The state has a long and successful history in the sport, and the tournament will highlight this legacy at the highest level.

Increased Fan Engagement

The tournament will bring together a passionate and enthusiastic fan base. The high-stakes atmosphere will create a memorable experience for fans, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared excitement.

Revitalization of Downtown Indianapolis

The tournament will contribute to the revitalization of downtown Indianapolis. The influx of visitors will generate foot traffic and support local businesses, creating a vibrant and thriving atmosphere.

Economic Impact on State of Indiana

The tournament will have a positive economic impact on the entire state of Indiana. The revenue generated from the event will benefit various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, and transportation.

Long-Term Legacy for Indianapolis

The 2025 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament will leave a lasting legacy for Indianapolis. The city will be associated with the sport’s most prestigious event, solidifying its place as a basketball destination.

Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament 2025

The Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament 2025 promises to be an exciting and competitive event, featuring some of the top college basketball teams in the nation. The tournament will be held from March 5-9, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The winner of the tournament will receive an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

The Big Ten is one of the strongest conferences in college basketball, and the tournament is always highly competitive. In recent years, Michigan State, Purdue, and Wisconsin have all won the tournament. This year, there are several teams that could contend for the title, including Purdue, Michigan, and Illinois.

The tournament will be played in a single-elimination format, with the top four teams receiving a bye to the second round. The first round games will be played on March 5 and 6, with the second round games being played on March 7 and 8. The semifinals will be played on March 9, with the championship game being played that evening.