New York, NY (March 28, 2006) When the March Madness bracket was announced on Selection Sunday, thousands upon thousands of hoops fans placed their bets at Sportsbook.com, the world's largest online sportsbook and casino. Of those countless bets, only 13 visionary hardwood prognosticators backed the George Mason Patriots to win the national title before the tournament started. At 500-1 odds at the time, those lucky 13 fans are riding Cinderella's coattails for a chance at huge payouts.
As the tournament has progressed George Mason fever has caught on and now, with their odds at 9-2 to win the title, more and more fans are placing their money on the Colonial Athletic Association giant-killers. But should George Mason defeat Florida and then go on to beat LSU or UCLA for the title, it's those lucky 13 bettors that will be smiling widest on April 3.
"This is what March Madness is all about and it's why everybody bets on college basketball. It's about cheering for the underdog and watching the Cinderella teams take on the big guns," said Alex Czajkowski, Sportsbook.com. "Despite taking in a record number of bets, it's astonishing to think only 13 people bet on George Mason at the start of the tournament. It's the ultimate long shot bet and it could make these 13 customers very, very happy."
Still, George Mason is in for a battle if their dream run is to continue. Sportsbook.com's odds on favorite now are the Patriots. next opponent, Florida. The Gators' odds to win the Big Dance are 8-5, followed by LSU at 5-2 and UCLA at 3-1.
"This year has been a rollercoaster ride to watch with all the upsets, thankfully our in-game betting and props are allowing Sportsbook.com players to keep their tourney hopes alive."
2006 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament - Odds to Win
Florida 8-5
LSU 5-2
UCLA 3-1
George Mason 9-2
For a full list of betting options, odds and additional information please visit sportsbook.com.
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