Barkley Long Shot at American Century Championship in Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe, Nevada — This week, basketball legend Charles Barkley, known for his unique golf swing, enters the American Century Championship with 7,500-1 odds of winning, according to Caesars Sportsbook. Despite finishing in a career-best 58th place last year, Barkley’s long shot has attracted some bettors willing to take a chance.

Anthony Salleroli, the lead golf oddsmaker for Caesars, humorously stated in an email to ESPN, “We have seen a handful of tickets on Barkley to win it all, but we may see those tickets on eBay soon.” The over/under on Barkley’s finishing position this year is set at 65.5.

Defending champion Mardy Fish, a former professional tennis player, is not returning this year, and retired NHL player Joe Pavelski is favored to win at +220, just above other top contenders, including Fish at +240, former NFL quarterback Tony Romo at +350, and actor/athlete Stephen Curry at +425. Notably, Curry will also be defending his title after winning the tournament in 2023.

Salleroli noted that betting action is quite balanced among Pavelski, Fish, Curry, and Romo as they are all well-known figures. The tournament, which features 90 players composed of athletes and celebrities, kicks off this Friday with a shotgun start format, meaning all groups will begin on different holes simultaneously.

The event will award $150,000 to the winner, $70,000 to second place, and $40,000 to third place. Participants are looking forward to traditions such as the Long Drive Challenge, the Charity Chip Challenge, and a Hole-In-One Contest. Notable players participating include NFL stars such as Travis Kelce and Josh Allen, as well as comedians like Larry the Cable Guy.

All the action from Lake Tahoe will be broadcasted on NBC and Peacock throughout the weekend, starting with the first 24 groups teed off at 7:45 a.m. local time on Friday.