The East Region features powerhouse programs, dangerous mid-majors, and several intriguing first round matchups. Top-seeded Duke enters the region as the clear betting favorite. However, March Madness often delivers chaos, surprises, and unexpected tournament runs. Several teams in this region have the talent to shake up the bracket.
2026 NCAA Tournament East Region Predictions: March Madness Upsets, Picks, and Bracket
Best Bets: #8 Ohio State (-2.5), #9 TCU (+2.5)
Ohio State laying a small number against TCU is one of the most attractive bets in the East Region first round. The Buckeyes have shown the ability to win close games thanks to their disciplined offense and steady guard play. They do a strong job limiting turnovers and forcing opponents into difficult half-court possessions.
TCU is a talented team, but they can struggle when games slow down and become more physical. Ohio State’s defensive structure should force the Horned Frogs into tougher shots throughout the game. In what could be a tight matchup late, the Buckeyes’ experience and execution give them the edge to pull away and cover the small spread.
East Region Favorite: #1 Duke
Duke enters the East Region as the betting favorite to reach the Final Four, currently listed around +120 to win the region. The Blue Devils possess one of the most talented rosters in the entire tournament. Their combination of elite recruiting classes and experienced players gives them a strong advantage over most teams in this bracket.
Another reason Duke is favored is their balance on both ends of the floor. They can score efficiently in transition while also executing well in half-court sets. Defensively, their length and athleticism allow them to contest shots and control the glass.
The path through the East also sets up well for Duke early in the tournament. Their opening matchup against Siena should allow them to build confidence and momentum. If the Blue Devils play to their potential, they have the depth and star power to win this region.
Dark Horse: #7 UCLA
UCLA stands out as one of the most dangerous dark horses in the East Region. As a seven seed, the Bruins have the experience and coaching to make a deeper run than many expect. Programs with strong tournament history often become extremely dangerous once March begins.
The Bruins play a disciplined style of basketball that can frustrate more athletic teams. They are comfortable slowing the pace and forcing opponents into half-court situations. That approach tends to be very effective in tournament settings where every possession becomes more valuable.
UCLA also has strong guard play, which is often the difference in close tournament games. If they survive the first round and gain momentum, the Bruins could quickly become a serious threat to the higher seeds. Their experience and composure make them a legitimate candidate to surprise this region.
First Round Upset: #12 Northern Iowa (+470) over #5 St. John’s
One of the most intriguing upset opportunities in the East Region is Northern Iowa against St. John’s. The Panthers are known for playing a slow, physical brand of basketball that can throw opponents off their rhythm. That style has historically created problems for more athletic teams during March Madness.
St. John’s prefers to play at a faster pace and generate offense through transition opportunities. If Northern Iowa successfully slows the tempo, the Red Storm could struggle to find consistent scoring. Tournament games often favor teams that can control pace and limit mistakes.
Northern Iowa also has the ability to shoot the ball from the perimeter, which becomes extremely valuable in upset scenarios. If the Panthers get hot from three-point range and keep the game close late, the pressure could shift heavily toward St. John’s. That combination makes Northern Iowa a very live underdog in this matchup
East Region Bracket
