As the calendar turns to 2026 and the 2025-26 college basketball season gains momentum, futures markets for the NCAA Men’s Tournament are heating up. We have the early 2026 March Madness odds here for you. The undefeated Michigan Wolverines have emerged as the clear frontrunner after a dominant 12-0 start, including convincing wins over top competition. Oddsmakers and bettors alike are piling on the Wolverines, who boast elite talent and depth heading into conference play.
Early 2026 March Madness Odds
Here are the early 2026 March Madness odds for you. These will change a good bit between now and time for the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball tournament, but stay tuned. You can also compare these with the March Madness odds from the start of the season.
Current National Championship Odds (aggregated from major sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM as of January 1, 2026; odds subject to change):
- Michigan Wolverines: +425 to +450
- Duke Blue Devils: +1000 to +1100
- Purdue Boilermakers: +900 to +1000
- Houston Cougars: +1200
- UConn Huskies: +1300 to +1400
- Arizona Wildcats: +1500
- Florida Gators (defending champs): +1800 to +2200
- Kentucky Wildcats: +1700 to +2000
- Alabama Crimson Tide: +2000
- Kansas Jayhawks: +2000
Michigan’s surge has shortened their odds dramatically from preseason levels, where teams like Purdue and Duke were the favorites. The Wolverines’ perfect record and high betting handle (over 15% at some books) reflect strong public confidence.
Top Favorites Breakdown
- Michigan Wolverines (+425)
Dusty May’s squad is the story of the early season. A 12-0 start with multiple double-digit wins over ranked opponents has propelled them to the top of the odds board. Their blend of veteran leadership and explosive scoring makes them a tough out in March. - Duke Blue Devils (+1000)
Jon Scheyer’s reloading with top recruit Cameron Boozer keeps Duke in the elite tier. Despite some early adjustments, their talent level and coaching pedigree position them for a deep run. - Purdue Boilermakers (+950)
Returning stars like Braden Smith and Trey Kaufman-Renn give Matt Painter’s group continuity—a rare commodity. Purdue’s proven ability to dominate in the paint makes them a bracket darling once again.
Sleeper Picks with Value
- Houston Cougars (+1200) — Kelvin Sampson’s defensive-minded team always peaks in March. With key returners and additions, they offer strong value after last year’s runner-up finish.
- UConn Huskies (+1300) — Dan Hurley’s program reloads quickly. Back-to-back titles in recent years prove their championship DNA.
- Arizona Wildcats (+1500) — Tommy Lloyd’s up-tempo style and recruiting haul could lead to a breakout. A softer early schedule masks their potential.
- Kansas Jayhawks (+2000) — Bill Self’s track record speaks for itself. Incoming talent around veterans provides upside at longer odds.
Way-Too-Early Bracket Predictions
The 2026 NCAA Tournament tips off in mid-March, culminating at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on April 6. With parity high, expect chaos—but here’s a projected No. 1 seed outlook:
- Midwest Region: Michigan (No. 1 overall) – Dominant start positions them for top seed.
- East Region: Duke – Blueblood pedigree and recruiting edge.
- South Region: Purdue – Big Ten strength carries them.
- West Region: Houston – Toughness fits bracket grind.
Bold Prediction: Michigan cuts down the nets as champions, capitalizing on momentum and depth. Sleeper Final Four pick: Arizona crashes the party from the West.
The transfer portal and injuries will shift these odds, but locking in value now could pay off. Stay tuned to SportsBrackets.net for printable brackets, updated odds, and March Madness previews as Selection Sunday approaches! We also never count the Kentucky Wildcats out until they are out of the tournament too.
Odds sourced from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and industry aggregates. Gamble responsibly.
