The NCAA Tournament is set to begin, and for college basketball fans, that means it’s time to fill out those March Madness brackets.
With 68 teams competing for the championship title, it can be a daunting task to predict the winners of each round.
However, with a little research and some strategic thinking, you can increase your chances of coming out on top in your office pool or online bracket challenge.
Scroll down to see our tips on betting on March Madness!
What is March Madness?
March Madness is a popular college basketball tournament that takes place every spring.
The tournament features 68 teams from across the country, all competing for the chance to be crowned national champions.
The teams are ranked and sorted into an NCAA bracket on Selection Sunday, with the top 64 teams split into four regional tournaments and ranked with seeds numbered 1-16.
The eight lowest-seeded teams participate in play-in games known as the First Four, with the four winners advancing to the first round.
The tournament is known for its unpredictability, with upsets and Cinderella stories often stealing the spotlight. This is what makes March Madness so exciting for fans and bettors alike.
The Final Four semifinals will take place on April 1 in Houston, Texas, with the championship game on April 3.
Jon Cherry for The New York Times
How to bet on March Madness games
When it comes to betting on March Madness, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.
First and foremost, it’s important to do your research on each team. Look at their regular-season performance, their strengths and weaknesses, and any key players to watch.
Consider betting odds from reputable sources and look at perennial favorites.
Offshore sportsbooks like BetUS, SportsBetting, Xbet, and Mybookie offer a wide range of betting options for March Madness, including futures bets, prop bets, and live betting.
One tip for filling out brackets is to consider the 12-5 upset, but it is not recommended to load up on upsets across the field. It is advised to pick at least one No. 1 seed to make the Final Four, as they have a good track record of success.
Avoid automatically picking all #1 seeds, stressing too much over the first round, and picking any seed below #8 to win the tournament.
Tips for picking winners in every round
When it comes to picking winners in every round of the NCAA Tournament, there are a few things to keep in mind.
While upsets are a big part of March Madness, it’s important not to get too carried away with picking lower-seeded teams to win it all.
Look for a good balance of favorites and underdogs in your bracket, and consider the strengths and weaknesses of each team.
Don’t forget to factor in betting odds and past performance, and don’t be afraid to go with your gut when making your picks.
Watching the games
Fans can watch the games on US television, streaming services, and channels internationally.
The NCAA also hosts a women’s tournament, with the South Carolina Gamecocks being a heavy favorite to win.
In conclusion, March Madness is an exciting time for college basketball fans and bettors alike.
With a little research and some strategic thinking, you can increase your chances of coming out on top in your office pool or online bracket challenge.
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the NCAA Tournament. So grab your brackets, place your bets, and get ready for some March Madness madness!