Near-Perfect Bracket: CBS Sports Entrant Misses by One Game

In a thrilling turn of events during the 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament, one participant in the CBS Sports Bracket Challenge came tantalizingly close to achieving the impossible: a perfect bracket. With just one first-round game standing between them and perfection, the bracket was ultimately marred by the upset of 10th-seeded South Dakota State over No. 7 Oklahoma State.

This near-miss underscores the sheer improbability of predicting every game correctly. The NCAA estimates that the chances of achieving a perfect bracket are one in 9.2 quintillion. While the news may not have made major headlines, it serves as a testament to the unpredictability and excitement that March Madness consistently delivers.

The Journey to Near-Perfection

The CBS Sports Bracket Challenge is a yearly tradition that captivates basketball fans across the nation. Each year, millions of participants attempt to predict the outcomes of the NCAA Tournament games, hoping to achieve the elusive perfect bracket.

In 2025, one participant managed to correctly predict every game up until the first-round upset of Oklahoma State by South Dakota State. This remarkable journey through the bracket was filled with nail-biting moments and unexpected twists. However, the ultimate downfall came on March 22, when South Dakota State’s victory dashed the hopes of perfection.

Despite the disappointment, the achievement of coming so close is a noteworthy accomplishment in itself.

The Statistical Improbability

To understand the magnitude of this near-perfect bracket, it is essential to consider the statistical improbability of such an achievement. The NCAA has calculated the odds of predicting every game correctly at one in 9.2 quintillion. This staggering number highlights the incredible difficulty of the task.

While the NCAA has not computed the exact odds of finishing with just one incorrect prediction, it is safe to say that it is an exceedingly rare occurrence. The sheer number of variables and potential upsets in the tournament make it nearly impossible to achieve a perfect bracket.

The Impact of the Upset

The upset of Oklahoma State by South Dakota State had significant implications for the bracket challenge. This game, which ended with a score of 74-68 in favor of South Dakota State, was a pivotal moment that ultimately prevented the perfect bracket from becoming a reality.

The outcome was particularly surprising given that the following opponent was the eventual national champion, UConn.

While the upset may not have garnered widespread attention, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of March Madness. Each game has the potential to defy expectations and alter the course of the tournament, making it a thrilling event for fans and participants alike.

The Role of UConn

UConn’s dominance in the tournament further emphasizes the significance of the upset. As the eventual national champion, UConn’s performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of exceptional. Their victories over formidable opponents showcased their skill and determination, making them a deserving champion.

The fact that South Dakota State’s victory over Oklahoma State preceded a matchup with UConn adds an additional layer of intrigue to the story. It highlights the competitive nature of the tournament and the challenges that each team must overcome to advance.

The CBS Sports Bracket Challenge

The CBS Sports Bracket Challenge is a popular platform for fans to engage with the NCAA Tournament. Each year, millions of participants fill out their brackets, hoping to achieve the perfect prediction.

The challenge offers a unique opportunity for fans to test their knowledge and intuition, adding an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.

While the odds of achieving a perfect bracket are astronomically low, the challenge continues to captivate participants year after year. The thrill of each game and the potential for upsets make it a beloved tradition for basketball enthusiasts.

The Future of Bracket Challenges

As technology and data analysis continue to evolve, the future of bracket challenges may see new innovations and strategies. Advanced analytics and predictive modeling could potentially improve participants’ chances of making accurate predictions.

However, the inherent unpredictability of the tournament will always ensure that achieving a perfect bracket remains a monumental challenge.

Despite the low odds, the allure of the perfect bracket will continue to draw participants to the CBS Sports Bracket Challenge. The excitement and camaraderie that come with filling out a bracket and following the tournament are experiences that fans cherish, making it a timeless tradition in the world of sports.

Conclusion

The 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament provided a thrilling example of the excitement and unpredictability that define March Madness. The near-perfect bracket in the CBS Sports Bracket Challenge serves as a testament to the difficulty of predicting the outcomes of the tournament.

While the upset of Oklahoma State by South Dakota State ultimately prevented perfection, the journey to that point was a remarkable achievement.

The statistical improbability of a perfect bracket underscores the challenges that participants face each year. However, the thrill of the challenge and the excitement of the tournament ensure that the CBS Sports Bracket Challenge will remain a beloved tradition for years to come.

As fans continue to engage with the tournament and test their predictive skills, the allure of the perfect bracket will always be a tantalizing goal.

For more information on the 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament and the CBS Sports Bracket Challenge, visit the AP News website.