Which Celebrities Have Chosen the Duke Blue Devils to Win This Year’s March Madness?

As March Madness kicks off, millions of basketball fans and celebrities alike prepare to make their picks for the NCAA Tournament’s ultimate prize. March Madness, one of the most thrilling and unpredictable events in American sports, sees the nation’s best college basketball teams battling it out for a spot in the Final Four and the chance to be crowned national champions. While the athletes on the court are the primary focus, many celebrities, with their own sports knowledge and allegiance to schools, often add their voices to the conversation, picking their favorites to win the coveted championship.

One team that consistently attracts attention—both from basketball experts and celebrity fans—is the Duke Blue Devils. Known for their rich history of success, a roster filled with high-caliber talent, and a passionate fanbase, the Blue Devils have long been considered a powerhouse in college basketball. Over the years, Duke has built a reputation not only for its on-court dominance but also for its ability to attract some of the most notable names in the entertainment industry.

As we dive into this year’s March Madness excitement, we take a closer look at which celebrities have chosen the Duke Blue Devils to win this year’s NCAA Tournament. From Hollywood stars to music legends and sports icons, it’s clear that Duke remains a favorite pick for many high-profile fans.

1. The Power of Duke’s Basketball Legacy

Before delving into the specifics of celebrity picks, it’s important to understand why the Duke Blue Devils are such a beloved team. Over the years, Duke has established itself as a perennial powerhouse in NCAA basketball. Under the legendary leadership of Coach Mike Krzyzewski, who coached the Blue Devils from 1980 until his retirement in 2022, the team captured five NCAA Championships, 15 ACC Tournament titles, and countless other accolades. Even after Coach K’s departure, Duke remained a top-tier program, continuing to recruit elite talent and achieve success on the national stage.

The university’s blue-blood status and championship pedigree make the Blue Devils an attractive pick for March Madness enthusiasts, including those in the entertainment industry. Celebrities often choose Duke for one simple reason: it’s a team with a history of winning and a future that always seems promising.

2. Celebrities Who Have Chosen Duke to Win March Madness 2025

a. LeBron James: A Duke Supporter with Ties to the Program

LeBron James is one of the most high-profile athletes in the world, and his connection to basketball runs deep. As someone who has consistently supported college basketball, LeBron’s opinion is often highly regarded when it comes to picking the favorites in the NCAA Tournament. LeBron has long been a fan of the Duke Blue Devils, and this year is no different.

LeBron’s admiration for Duke goes back to his high school days when he publicly praised the program for its professionalism and legacy. While LeBron himself never played college basketball, his admiration for Coach K and his program is well-documented. In 2025, James has been vocal in his pick for the Blue Devils to win it all, citing their mix of elite talent, strong coaching, and championship pedigree as reasons why they have the potential to lift the trophy.

LeBron’s pick carries a lot of weight, as he’s known for his basketball acumen and his deep understanding of the game. Given that Duke has been a breeding ground for NBA stars such as Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, and Jayson Tatum, LeBron’s endorsement only adds to the credibility of Duke’s chances this year.

b. Drake: A Duke Fan with an Eye on March Madness

Drake is another celebrity who has publicly expressed his support for the Duke Blue Devils. Known for his love of sports and basketball in particular, the Canadian rapper has often shown his allegiance to various teams, including Duke. His connection to the school goes beyond just fandom, as Drake has developed a friendship with players and coaches over the years.

Drake has made it clear in several social media posts and interviews that he is picking Duke to go all the way in 2025. His confidence in the Blue Devils comes from their mix of star power and a well-rounded roster. As a fan who loves to make bold predictions, Drake’s pick of Duke to win the tournament this year has generated excitement among his millions of followers.

In an Instagram story posted prior to the start of the tournament, Drake expressed his belief that Duke has what it takes to dominate March Madness, praising their depth, coaching, and the talent of their key players. His endorsement has sparked excitement within the Duke fanbase and added to the ongoing chatter about their chances to win it all.

c. Jay-Z: A Music Icon with a Soft Spot for Duke

Jay-Z, one of the most influential music moguls of all time, has always had an interest in sports, and his involvement in the March Madness conversation is no exception. Though Jay-Z is a known supporter of many basketball teams, he has been open about his admiration for Duke’s basketball program. While he’s more closely associated with the Brooklyn Nets, Jay-Z’s appreciation for elite basketball programs like Duke is well-known.

Jay-Z has often spoken about the importance of mentoring young athletes, and his respect for Duke’s ability to cultivate and develop top-tier talent fits into that narrative. With several NBA superstars, including Kyrie Irving and Zion Williamson, having made their mark at Duke, Jay-Z has expressed his belief that the Blue Devils will rise to the occasion in 2025.

When asked about his pick for the tournament in an interview with ESPN, Jay-Z didn’t hesitate to endorse Duke. “They’ve got the blueprint for success,” he said. “It’s all about getting the right mix of guys who can execute under pressure, and Duke knows how to build that team.”

d. Steph Curry: A Competitor with Respect for Duke’s Talent

Steph Curry, the NBA superstar known for his sharp shooting and leadership on the Golden State Warriors, has an immense respect for the Duke Blue Devils. Curry, who himself played college basketball at Davidson College, knows a thing or two about underdogs and upsets, which is why he’s chosen to back Duke in the 2025 March Madness tournament.

Curry’s endorsement comes as no surprise given that Duke has been a consistent powerhouse in college basketball. Curry has acknowledged Duke’s ability to produce NBA-ready talent, with players like Kyrie Irving and Jayson Tatum leaving their mark in the professional league. Given Duke’s legacy and their ability to perform under pressure, Curry sees them as a strong contender to take home the trophy this year.

In an interview on a basketball podcast, Curry stated, “You can never count out Duke. They’ve got a special program, and I think this year, they’ve got a squad that could go all the way.” Curry’s endorsement of the Blue Devils highlights the respect he has for the program’s consistency and pedigree.

e. Oprah Winfrey: A Fan of Duke’s Winning Culture

Oprah Winfrey, the media mogul and philanthropist, may not be as overtly involved in the sports world as some other celebrities, but she has made her admiration for Duke’s basketball program known. Oprah is no stranger to making high-profile picks, whether it’s in the realm of politics, business, or sports. Her involvement in the March Madness conversation is always eagerly anticipated, and this year, she has selected the Blue Devils as her pick to win it all.

Oprah’s connection to Duke comes from her respect for the university’s emphasis on excellence and success. As a woman who has achieved success on her own terms, Oprah identifies with the Blue Devils’ culture of winning and perseverance. In an interview promoting her new book, Oprah made a passing comment about March Madness and expressed her confidence in Duke, saying, “They have a winning mentality, and that’s what it takes to be a champion.”

Oprah’s endorsement of Duke further fuels the narrative that the Blue Devils are poised for a deep run in the tournament. With a track record of success and a reputation for developing future stars, it’s no surprise that Oprah has put her faith in Coach Jon Scheyer’s squad.

3. The Cultural Impact of Celebrity Picks in March Madness

The influence of celebrities on March Madness extends far beyond just their personal picks. In today’s world, social media plays a significant role in amplifying these picks, and celebrities’ endorsements of teams like Duke help to shape public opinion. When LeBron James, Drake, Jay-Z, Steph Curry, or Oprah weigh in with their support for a team, it not only bolsters the team’s profile but also brings attention to their individual achievements and storylines.

These celebrity endorsements also contribute to the excitement surrounding the tournament, adding an extra layer of intrigue for fans and viewers alike. Whether it’s a friendly rivalry between high-profile athletes or a collective consensus that a team like Duke has what it takes to win, celebrity picks are a key element in the March Madness conversation.