The annual Charles Barkley proposition wager on what place he will finish at the American Century Championship in Lake Tahoe is significantly lower than in past years, providing concrete evidence that the prominent NBA TV Analyst truly has improved his much-lampooned golf game.
The official Over/Under offering from Caesars Sportsbook for Barkley’s Finishing Position at this year’s tournament sits at 63.5. That is considerably lower than earlier years, when the bet was slotted at 70th place. Last year, his finish was pegged by Caesars at 65th place, so the proof of improvement is clear and convincing. His well-documented weight loss also lends credence to the possibility of an improved performance.
The proposition was posted last week, so wagering is underway. “We’ve seen balanced action so far on both Over and Under bets and expect some movements as we approach the first round on Friday,” stated Anthony Salleroli, Lead Golf Trader at Caesars Sportsbook.
So, those who believe that Barkley will finish 63rd or better will wager $110 to win $100. Those who believe that Barkley will finish 64th or worse will wager $120 to win $100.
WHAT: American Century Championship
WHERE: Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course
WHEN: July 10-12, 2026
Top 63 FINISH: Charles Barkley
Yes (Under 63.5) -110
No (Over 63.5) -120
This history shows that the basketball Hall of Famer has rewarded his backers once during the five-year life of the wager. That came in 2024, when he finished in 58th place, easily besting the Over/Under offering of 70th place. Last year, with the wager pegged at 65th place, Barkley slipped to 69th.
With the number at 70 from 2021 through 2023, he finished 76th, 74th and 81st before rewarding his backers with the triumphant 58th.
On the individual odds board for Tournament Winner at Caesars Sportsbook, Barkley is listed at the longest odds, 7,500-1, even though he is projected to outperform several other players. The favorites are two-time champion Mardy Fish of tennis fame and defending champion, newly-retired hockey star Joe Pavelski, both at 3-1. Stephen Curry, the superstar NBA player who won the tournament in 2023 is listed at 4.5-1 along with baseball hall of famer John Smoltz. Annika Sorenstam, the greatest player in the history of women’s golf, is listed at 9-1 with three-time champion Tony Romo, the former NFL quarterback now TV analyst, at 8-1.
Other longshots include WWE wrestler The Miz (5,000-1), former NFL defensive end DeMarcus Ware (5,000-1), actor Miles Teller (2,500-1) and former NFL center Jason Kelce (2,500-1).
