The countdown is officially on for the thrilling 2025 Big 12 Tournament, where 16 competitive teams will clash for basketball glory in Kansas City, Missouri. The tournament kicked off on Tuesday, March 11, and will culminate in an action-packed championship game on Saturday, March 15.

With last year’s champions, the Iowa State Cyclones, defending their title after a decisive victory over Houston, all eyes will be on them as they aim for their seventh tournament win. Houston, having secured the top seed for 2025, is also a powerhouse contender in this year’s tournament.

2025 Big 12 Tournament Bracket and Key Dates

Tournament Schedule (All times in ET):

Tuesday, March 11 — First Round:

1. Game 1: No. 13 Cincinnati 87, No. 12 Oklahoma State 68

2. Game 2: No. 16 Colorado 69, No. 9 TCU 67

3. Game 3: No. 10 Kansas State 71, No. 15 Arizona State 66

4. Game 4: No. 14 UCF 87, No. 11 Utah 72

Wednesday, March 12 — Second Round:

5. Game 5: No. 5 Iowa State 76, No. 13 Cincinnati 56

6. Game 6: No. 16 Colorado 67, No. 8 West Virginia 60

7. Game 7: No. 7 Baylor 70, No. 10 Kansas State 56

8. Game 8: No. 6 Kansas 98, No. 14 UCF 94 (OT)

Thursday, March 13 — Quarterfinals:

9. Game 9: No. 4 BYU 96, No. 5 Iowa State 92

10. Game 10: No. 1 Houston 77, No. 16 Colorado 68

11. Game 11: No. 2 Texas Tech vs. No. 7 Baylor | 7 p.m. on ESPN

12. Game 12: No. 3 Arizona vs. No. 6 Kansas | 9:30 p.m. on ESPN

Friday, March 14 — Semifinals:

13. Game 13: No. 4 BYU vs. Game 10 winner | 7 p.m.

14. Game 14: Game 11 winner vs. Game 12 winner | 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 15 — Championship:

15. Semifinal winners | 6 p.m.

Historical Context and Tournament Legacy

With a rich legacy spanning decades, the Big 12 Tournament has seen numerous memorable moments and standout players. Kansas has dominated the championship history, with a significant number of titles led by legendary performances from players like Paul Pierce, Marcus Morris, and Devonte’ Graham. Notably, the tournament saw Iowa State claim back-to-back titles in 2014 and 2015, reflecting their status as a formidable team in recent years.

The tournament not only showcases emerging talent but also acts as a stepping stone for players aspiring to reach the NBA, highlighting the fierce competition that captivates fans year after year.

As the games progress this March, fans are eager to see whether Iowa State can reclaim their title or if Houston will rise to the occasion and secure their first championship since 2024. The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable—who will take home the Big 12 crown? Stay tuned for all the buzzer-beaters, upsets, and unforgettable moments!