As the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament approaches, several teams have emerged as potential frontrunners, each carrying the hopes and expectations of their fans. However, beneath the surface of impressive records and dominant performances lie potential pitfalls that could derail their championship aspirations. This article delves into the critical weaknesses that could spell doom for top contenders like Florida, St. John's, Alabama, and Arizona.

Florida basketball has surged into the spotlight, becoming a top betting favorite after a commanding victory over Tennessee in the SEC Tournament. With a 30-4 record and a potent offense, the Gators have demonstrated the ability to overpower opponents. However, their Achilles' heel lies in their tendency to commit turnovers. Carelessness with the ball has been a season-long concern, particularly against elite defensive teams that capitalize on mistakes. Players like Walter Clayton Jr, Will Richard, and Alijah Martin average over 1.5 turnovers per game, a statistic that could prove fatal in the high-stakes environment of March Madness. Head coach Todd Golden emphasizes the need for mental toughness, but the Gators' composure has wavered in the face of adversity. If they fail to protect the ball and maintain discipline under pressure, their championship dreams could be dashed.

St. John's, led by Rick Pitino, has captured the hearts of New York with their first outright Big East title in 25 years. However, despite entering the tournament as a No. 2 seed, the Red Storm faces potential upset due to their struggles with three-point shooting. Ranked among the worst in the Big East in this category, St. John's will be tested by opponents like Omaha, whose defense is designed to force teams into taking long-range shots. Additionally, Omaha's rebounding prowess could negate St. John's strength on the boards. Pitino's history of early-round exits at Iona adds another layer of pressure. To succeed, St. John's must overcome their shooting deficiencies and Pitino's past tournament struggles.

Under Nate Oats, Alabama has become a March Madness regular, known for their high-powered offense. However, their Achilles' heel is their defensive inconsistency and lack of size. The absence of Grant Nelson, due to injury, exacerbates this weakness, leaving a glaring void in the paint. In their SEC Tournament loss to Florida, the Crimson Tide unraveled, lacking composure and defensive intensity. Mark Sears struggled against Florida's length, and the team allowed over 100 points for only the second time this season. While Oats remains optimistic about Nelson's return, any absence could be fatal. To make a deep tournament run, Alabama must tighten up their defense and find answers in the paint.

Arizona, led by Tommy Lloyd, enters the tournament with a strong record but faces a challenging first-round matchup against Akron. The Zips, coached by March veteran John Groce, boast an explosive offense, averaging 84.6 points per game. Akron's scoring depth and red-hot form in 2025 make them a dangerous opponent. Arizona's defense, ranked 13th in the Big 12, will be severely tested. Additionally, Arizona's history of first-round exits looms large. To advance, Arizona must play their aggressive style and avoid relying on three-point shots, while also containing Akron's potent offense.

As these teams embark on their NCAA Tournament journeys, their ability to overcome these critical weaknesses will determine their fate. March Madness is unforgiving, and only those who can exorcise their demons will have a chance to cut down the nets in San Antonio.