Sun Belt Tournament Betting Guide: Heavyweights Battle at the Top

Sun Belt Tournament Best Bet: Appalachian State (+190)

We'll go with the challengers here. Even after winning the regular season title, it's felt like the Mountaineers have been disrespected all season long. It's shown not only in the slightly longer odds but also being behind the Dukes in KenPom for most of the year. The combination of defensive dominance and even contributions from many players makes them a nightmare of a matchup in a one-off format like a postseason tournament. Back App State to reach just its second NCAA Tournament in 24 years.

Sun Belt Tournament Favorite: James Madison (+135)

A starting lineup loaded with seniors is terrifying to face in college basketball. The Dukes boast four in their lineup, while their lone junior, Terrence Edwards, is arguably their best player. Their balanced strength on both ends of the floor gives them a relatively high floor, helping them avoid letdown games and accrue 15 wins in conference play. They live to run teams off the three-point line, allowing the third-lowest percentage from beyond the arc in the country at 28.5 percent. If they match up with a triple-happy squad in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, they could be a popular upset.

Sun Belt Tournament Challenger: Appalachian State (+190)

We've been saying it all season long, but Appalachian State is a team greater than the sum of its parts. Their balanced attack consists of six players averaging at least seven points per game. Their statement win over Auburn in early December fully displayed their unpredictable, balanced attack. In that game, Butler transfer Myles Tate came off the bench and poured in 18 to lead them to their biggest win in program history. There's also loads of defensive talent at head coach Dustin Kerns's disposal here. The Mountaineers come in at 26th in defensive efficiency in the country and have held opponents under 60 points 13 times this season.

Sun Belt Tournament Dark Horse: Southern Miss (+3500)

Remember Andre Curbelo? The former Illinois and St. John's guard is now terrorizing the Sun Belt. While he missed a combined 20 games this season with eligibility issues and a concussion, the Golden Eagles have looked like a completely different team when he is on the court. His presence and undeniable talent, combined with being the only team outside of Appalachian State to knock off James Madison in conference play, make them an intriguing dart throw at 35-to-1.

Sun Belt Tournament Best Bet: Appalachian State (+190)

We'll go with the challengers here. Even after winning the regular season title, it's felt like the Mountaineers have been disrespected all season long. It's shown not only in the slightly longer odds but also being behind the Dukes in KenPom for most of the year. The combination of defensive dominance and even contributions from many players makes them a nightmare of a matchup in a one-off format like a postseason tournament. Back App State to reach just its second NCAA Tournament in 24 years.