With the March Madness games underway—and March Madness betting going strong—Gambling.com asked bookmaker Casey Lewlessfor his bracket predictions.

A former Las Vegas handicapper, Lewless manages ESPN Bet sportsbooks in Northwest Louisiana at the Margaritaville and Boomtown casinos. These resorts are in the Shreveport/Bossier City market, the closest place to Dallas-Fort Worth with legal sports betting and casino gaming.

Betting on this year’s March Madness is expected to be strong. According to the American Gaming Association, bettors in the U.S. will legally wager $3.1 billion on the men’s and women’s college tournaments in 2025, up from $2.7 billion last year.

“This growth underscores the expanding legal sports betting market and the growing trust in legal wagering options,” the AGA said. 

To guide you toward potential winners as the tournament unfolds, and especially as the title game approaches in early April, check out the video below for Lewless’ Final Four picks. He also explains the thinking behind his favorites. (The video was recorded before the tournament tipped off.)

Bookmaker Explains His Final Four Picks And Ultimate Winner

Key Dates

• March 27-28 (Sweet 16)
• March 29-30 (Elite Eight)
• April 5 (Final Four in San Antonio)
• April 7 (National championship game in San Antonio)

Source: ncaa.com