The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament features a highly anticipated Elite Eight matchup between the No. 2 seed Tennessee Volunteers and the No. 1 seed Houston Cougars.

This game, taking place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, is pivotal as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the Final Four.​Houston Chronicle+2Rocky Top Insider+2DraftKings Network+2

Game Details

Team Overviews

Tennessee Volunteers

Under the leadership of head coach Rick Barnes, the Volunteers have demonstrated resilience and strength throughout the season. Their journey to the Elite Eight included a decisive 78-65 victory over the Kentucky Wildcats in the Sweet 16. Key players such as Zakai Zeigler, Chaz Lanier, and Jordan Gainey have been instrumental in their success. ​New York Post+3Rocky Top Insider+3New York Post+3

Houston Cougars

Coached by Kelvin Sampson, the Cougars have showcased exceptional defensive prowess, allowing an average of just 58.4 points per game. Their path to the Elite Eight featured a narrow 62-60 win against Purdue, secured by a last-second dunk. ​DraftKings NetworkNew York Post

Key Matchup Factors

  • Defense: Both teams are renowned for their defensive capabilities. Houston's defense ranks second nationally, while Tennessee's is seventh. This suggests a low-scoring, tightly contested game. ​talkSPORT+1DraftKings Network+1DraftKings Network

  • Offense: Houston holds a slight edge in offensive efficiency, averaging 123.4 points per 100 possessions compared to Tennessee's 121.1. Additionally, Houston boasts a 39.8% success rate from three-point range, which could be a decisive factor. ​talkSPORT+1DraftKings Network+1

  • Rebounding: Tennessee excels in defensive rebounding, an area where Houston also performs well. The battle for rebounds will be crucial in determining the game's outcome. ​talkSPORT

Viewing Information

Fans can watch the game live on CBS. For those without cable access, streaming options include the March Madness Live App and Paramount Plus. Radio listeners can tune in to 950 AM for live coverage. ​Houston Chronicle

Conclusion

This Elite Eight clash between Tennessee and Houston promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams bringing formidable defenses and strategic gameplay to the court.

As they compete for a place in the Final Four, basketball enthusiasts can anticipate a game marked by intensity, skill, and determination.