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Stephen A. Smith's Bold Final Four Predictions Revealed

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The bracket reveal sparked Final Four predictions.
Stephen A. Smith of ESPN criticized St. John's No. 5 seed, saying they deserved a better spot after winning the Big East Conference and tournament, and he praised head coach Rick Pitino.
Smith's Final Four picks include Duke and Arizona as No. 1 seeds, with Houston and Iowa State as No. 2, while he doubts Michigan's stability despite a prior top ranking.

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Story summary

The bracket reveal sparked Final Four predictions.
Stephen A. Smith of ESPN criticized St. John's No. 5 seed, saying they deserved a better spot after winning the Big East Conference and tournament, and he praised head coach Rick Pitino.
Smith's Final Four picks include Duke and Arizona as No. 1 seeds, with Houston and Iowa State as No. 2, while he doubts Michigan's stability despite a prior top ranking.