College Basketball National Championship Betting Trends

As college basketball heats up and teams vie for their shot at the coveted National Championship, betting trends reveal where fans and bettors are placing their confidence. Duke, Kansas, and UConn have emerged as some of the most heavily wagered teams, reflecting their championship potential and strong betting appeal. In this analysis, we break down line movement, highest ticket percentages, handle percentages, and the biggest liabilities for sportsbooks. Get the latest insights into how the betting markets are shaping up for the road to March Madness.

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Line movement (Last Week to Now)

• Auburn +1500 to +900
• UConn +900 to +1500

Line movements are a clear indicator of how betting markets respond to team performance and public sentiment. Auburn has seen a significant shift, moving from +1500 to +900, showcasing increased confidence in their championship chances. Meanwhile, UConn has experienced a dip, going from +900 to +1500, suggesting skepticism in their ability to replicate last season’s success. These movements highlight the fluidity of odds as bettors react to teams’ on-court performance and potential.

Highest Ticket%

• Duke 14.9%
• Kansas 10.8%
• UConn 8.3%

Duke leads the way in ticket percentages, accounting for 14.9% of all wagers, solidifying their status as a fan favorite. Kansas follows at 10.8%, demonstrating their consistent presence as a championship contender. Surprisingly, UConn, despite its odds drop, holds 8.3% of the tickets, reflecting faith from their loyal backers. These figures show where the public is focusing its attention and money, making these teams ones to watch as the season progresses.

Highest Handle%

• Duke 17.4%
• Kansas 9.2%
• UConn 8.4%

When it comes to handle, or the total amount of money wagered, Duke once again dominates at 17.4%, followed by Kansas at 9.2%, and UConn at 8.4%. The handle percentage often indicates where sharp bettors and high-stakes wagers are being placed. The continued confidence in Duke underscores their perceived strength, while Kansas’s solid position highlights its balanced appeal across casual and professional bettors.

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Biggest Liabilities

• Duke
• Kansas
• Gonzaga

For sportsbooks, Duke, Kansas, and Gonzaga present the biggest liabilities, meaning these teams pose significant financial risk if they win the National Championship. Duke’s consistent presence across ticket and handle percentages amplifies their liability. Gonzaga, though not among the top in ticket or handle percentages, still holds strong betting interest, indicating that bettors see them as a dark horse in the race for the title.

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