The 2025 ACC/SEC Men”s Challenge is set to feature several high-stakes matchups, showcasing multiple teams ranked in the AP Top 25. The event kicks off with a notable game on Tuesday night as No. 4 Duke takes on No. 15 Florida. This game marks the first of three ranked matchups in a two-day span, followed by No. 16 North Carolina facing No. 18 Kentucky later in the evening, and finally No. 6 Louisville going against No. 25 Arkansas on Wednesday.
One of the key Tuesday games to watch is the matchup between No. 13 Tennessee and Syracuse at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN. Syracuse endured a challenging run at the Players Era Festival, finishing with an 0-3 record against tough opponents. This upcoming game poses another challenge as they face a Tennessee team that excels in both offensive and defensive efficiency. The Vols are led by dynamic guard Ja”Kobi Gillespie and 6-foot-10 forward Nate Ament, who have been pivotal in their recent performances.
The game between No. 15 Florida and No. 4 Duke starts at 7:30 p.m. ET. Florida is aiming to bounce back from early season losses, while Duke remains undefeated at 8-0 after a significant win against a ranked opponent. The performance of Cameron Boozer will be critical for Duke as he faces Florida”s strong frontcourt. Florida”s ability to protect the ball will also be essential if they want to prevent Duke from capitalizing on transition opportunities.
Later in the evening, the matchup between No. 16 North Carolina and No. 18 Kentucky will take place at 9:30 p.m. ET. Both teams are coming off tough losses, and this game represents a chance for redemption. Kentucky has struggled defensively in recent outings, while North Carolina will rely on their standout freshman Caleb Wilson to lead the offense. The battle in the paint will be crucial, especially with Kentucky“s Malachi Moreno tasked with containing Wilson.
On Wednesday, the action continues with No. 6 Louisville taking on No. 25 Arkansas at 7:15 p.m. ET. This game features a trio of projected first-round NBA draft picks, with Mikel Brown Jr. from Louisville and Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas from Arkansas. Both teams will need to play to their strengths to secure a victory.
Also on Wednesday, Clemson faces No. 12 Alabama, which has been performing well against a tough schedule. Clemson will look to control the pace of the game, contrasting with Alabama“s high-tempo style. Finally, NC State will challenge No. 20 Auburn in what promises to be an exciting matchup as both teams aim to establish momentum during the Feast Week.
