With tourney faves like Kentucky (+175), Syracuse (+400) and Duke (+500) getting most of the attention, some dark horse teams have the ability not only make a run at the title, but they may even boost your bankroll.
Here are a few long shot bets worth taking a look at:
Tennessee Volunteers +3500
After
suffering a devastating 29-point loss to Kentucky in the SEC Tournament
final, the Volunteers now have a chip on their shoulder.
With two seniors and two juniors in its starting lineup, Tennessee has the recipe for success; experience, experience, experience.
Look for Bruce Pearl to rally his troops like only he can. Should the Vols take the title this year, even a small bet could mean a huge payday!
Ohio State Buckeyes +800
Ohio State was the first futures bet I laid down when the tourney started.
With phenom Evan Turner leading the way, the Buckeyes are a force to be reckoned with. After a not-so-spectacular opening game against UC-Santa Barbara, Turner showed why he is arguably the top college hoops star this year, banging out an effortless 29 point, 9 rebound and 9 assist game in a 19-point trouncing of Georgia Tech.
While +800 isn't +3500, Ohio State is probably the safest bet outside the Big 3.
Michigan State Spartans +3000
If there's one thing Tom Izzo doesn't receive enough credit for, it is having a knack for winning close games.
Ten of MSU's last 11 wins have been by less than ten points and their last four have victories have been by six points or less.
The 2009-10 Spartans are not much different from last season's team that lost in the NCAA Tournament final. They play have playmakers, tough defense and lead the nation in rebounding margin.
If you are looking for a longshot with enough firepower to be crowned the king on April 5th, then look no further, the Spartans are the truth.
Baylor Bears +2500
Overshadowed by Big 12 bullies Kansas and Kansas State, Baylor just wants a little bit of respect.
Reaching the Sweet 16 for the first time in school history doesn't make the Bears an attractive play for futures bettors, but the No. 3 seed is out to prove everybody wrong.
Sure Baylor hasn't rolled over top opponents in the tourney, beating Sam Houston State and Old Dominion. But, playing in the Big 12 hasn't hurt the Bears' preparation for the big dance.
Prior to the tournament opener, Baylor has defeated the likes of Texas (twice), Texas Tech (twice), Oklahoma and Texas A&M. While it may not be your most popular decision, backing Baylor could be one of the smartest moves you make.
Get your NCAA Futures odds right here at Brobury Sports.
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