Brandon Hill —Auburn over Texas Tech, 77-75
After the collapse of Duke and Gonzaga, it only makes sense to pick the lowest seeded teams to make it to the championship. A busted bracket means I only expect the college basketball world to implode. Welcome, chaos. Welcome, madness.
Chris Deremer — Virginia over Michigan State, 68-64
After last year’s early exit, Tony Bennett’s squad recovers and brings home a championship after strong shooting from Kyle Guy. Tom Izzo and Cassius Winston fall short of bringing home a title.
Jonah Baker — Virginia over Texas Tech, 72-66
To win the tournament, you have to be on a roll and a legitimately good team. The Cavaliers have been a great team all year and have been on a mission since last year’s loss to UMBC, so this should be one of the best worst-to-first stories in tournament history.
Zack Kellogg — Virginia over Michigan State, 74-69
The Cavaliers and Spartans were seen as a couple of the most vulnerable teams coming into the tournament. But Virginia is on a mission to prove that they deserved a top-seed. Led by Kyle Guy and Ty Jerome, Virginia will capture the National Championship over Tom Izzo’s squad.
Braedon Cain — Michigan State over Auburn, 64-60.
Coach Izzo, regardless of his temper at times throughout the tournament, has the trust and respect of his players and it showed in a major victory over Duke in the Elite 8. Guard Cassius Winston will lead the Spartans in a close game along with a solid supporting cast that has proved its worth through this year’s March Madness.
Jordan Smith — Auburn over Texas Tech, 84-78
It’s apparent that Auburn has vastly improved their all-around intensity since their one point scare against New Mexico State in the first round. They’re rolling in more confidence with each game, and statement wins over UNC and Kentucky, I can’t picture anyone standing in their way. The Auburn Tigers: National Champions.