Duke is the pre-tournament favorite for the second consecutive year and the 10th time overall, tying North Carolina for the most tournament favorites since 1979, according to ESPN Research. The Blue Devils hold the shortest odds at most sportsbooks at +300 at DraftKings, followed by Michigan (+360) and Arizona (+390). This dominance reflects their status as the defending champion's successor, though they arrive without starting center Patrick Ngongba and guard Caleb Foster, both recovering from foot injuries sustained during the ACC tournament.

Coach Jon Scheyer indicates Ngongba is further along in rehab than Foster, suggesting both could return during the NCAA tournament, though their availability remains uncertain.