Dick Vitale Makes March Madness Prediction That Will Excite Duke Fans

One of the most iconic figures in college basketball, Dick Vitale, believes that Duke will be cutting down the nets in San Antonio.

There’s no one who represents college basketball better than ESPN’s legendary broadcaster, Dick Vitale. He has been a long-time supporter of Duke basketball, and now, the college hoops icon is predicting that the Blue Devils will win this year’s NCAA Tournament.

On Monday, Vitale shared a video on X, revealing his Final Four selections and his National Champion pick. He believes the Blue Devils will come out on top in San Antonio.

Vitale has Michigan State winning the South Region, Florida taking the West, and Houston claiming the Midwest. He’s chosen Duke to come through the East Region.

In the National Championship game, Vitale sees a matchup between Florida and Duke, with the Blue Devils ultimately claiming the title.

Critics will quickly point out Vitale’s long-standing support for Duke. Since the Blue Devils rose to prominence in the 1990s, Vitale has been vocal in praising their success, which has drawn criticism from those envious of their achievements.

Additionally, Vitale isn’t known for making bold predictions. For example, this year, he’s selecting three No. 1 seeds and one No. 2 seed to make it to San Antonio.

That might not come to fruition. Last year, No. 11 seed NC State reached the Final Four. The previous year, No. 9 seed Florida Atlantic did the same. In 2022, No. 8 seed North Carolina made it to the National Championship Game (though that’s a subject best avoided), and in 2021, No. 11 seed UCLA advanced to the Final Four.

To find the last time all four Final Four teams were either No. 1 or No. 2 seeds, you have to go all the way back to 2008, when Kansas, Memphis, North Carolina, and UCLA were the top seeds, with Kansas eventually winning the tournament.

As expected, Vitale is sticking with the favorites in his bracket, which is his typical approach. And, naturally, his fondness for Duke will likely influence his choice. Therefore, some might take his prediction with a bit of skepticism.

However, the Blue Devils are entering this year’s tournament as the No. 1 team in the A.P. poll and have one of the most talented rosters in the field (at least on paper). So, perhaps this year, Vitale’s prediction will prove correct and Duke will claim another championship.