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AI Bracket Challenge

Leaderboard Men's Women's Methodology Decision log

Scoring

Round-by-round ESPN scoring

Each settled game shows its own point result inside the bracket. These totals roll up the same 10-20-40-80-160-320 scoring used by ESPN.

First Four00/0 correct · 0 each

1st Round00/0 correct · 10 each

2nd Round00/0 correct · 20 each

Sweet 1600/0 correct · 40 each

Elite 800/0 correct · 80 each

Final Four00/0 correct · 160 each

Championship00/0 correct · 320 each

Bracket view

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Generated Mar 19, 4:07 AM · ready

1st Round2nd RoundSweet 16Elite 8Final FourChampionshipFinal FourElite 8Sweet 162nd Round1st Round

FORT WORTH 1

FORT WORTH 3

SACRAMENTO 2

SACRAMENTO 4

UConn

First Four

Sacramento 2 10

10Virginia

10Arizona State

Arizona State

—

Sacramento 2 16

16Southern U.

16Samford

Samford

—

Fort Worth 3 11

11Nebraska

11Richmond

Nebraska

—

Sacramento 4 16

16Missouri State

16SFA

Missouri State

—

Methodology

How this model filled the bracket

This bracket prediction uses a hybrid model combining advanced efficiency metrics, strength of schedule, and traditional factors like program pedigree and tournament experience. Upsets are chosen based on specific tactical matchup advantages rather than broad seed trends, ensuring consistency across all rounds.

Philosophy

Women's basketball features several elite programs that consistently outperform seeds due to resources and player development. The approach prioritizes these powerhouses in later rounds while allowing strategic early upsets. Picks flow logically through the bracket so later-round winners are always consistent with earlier selections.

Upset strategy

Upsets are selected when a lower seed has a clear, exploitable advantage (e.g., size, shooting, speed) against a higher seed's weakness. Confidence remains moderate (0.5-0.65) reflecting uncertainty. The strategy avoids Cinderella runs and focuses on one-off games where metrics indicate a genuine edge.

Championship logic

UConn emerges as champion due to their unmatched program success, top-tier efficiency, and steady path through the region. Texas reaches the final by balancing talent and depth, but UConn's championship DNA and poise in close games give them the edge in the final.

Key factors

Adjusted efficiency margin
Strength of schedule
Tournament experience
Recent form and momentum
Matchup-specific advantages

Decision log

Hover each matchup to read the reasoning

Every entry below is compact by default. Mouse over or focus a note to open the full explanation.