FatBracket FAQs

The Best Way to Follow the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournement

What is FatBracket Calcutta?
FatBracket Calcutta is an auction-style March Madness pool where players bid on teams in the NCAA basketball tournament. The total bid money forms a prize pool that gets distributed based on team performance. FatBracket has special rules that make the bidding and winning payouts even more exciting.

How does the bidding work?
The 68 tournament teams are auctioned in two batches. Batch 1 includes seeds 16-3, with a 500 point per player bid limit to promote balance. Batch 2 is the top seeds, with unlimited bidding. Players can go all out trying to secure powerhouse teams in the second phase.

What are the payouts?
Most payouts come from team wins. Players earn dividends each time one of their teams advances a round. The further a team goes, the bigger the payout. Side bets on props like blowouts and upsets offer more chances to win. The champion team's owner takes home 25.5% of the pot.

How many players should join a FatBracket Calcutta?
10-14 players is ideal for a dynamic auction. More participants means more bid competition and a bigger prize pool. Have at least 8 to ensure strong bidding action.

What is a good buy-in amount?
$200 or $250 per player is typical for a friendly Pot. This allows for meaningful bidding budgets and a motivate prize pool. Buy-ins can range from $50 up to any amount.

Do we need an auctioneer?
Yes, you'll want an energetic auctioneer who can keep the pacing upbeat and engage all the bidders throughout both rounds. Humor and wit is a plus!

How long does the auction take?
Plan for 2-3 hours to complete both bidding batches, props and any breaks. Fast pacing is key, so an experienced auctioneer helps move things briskly along.

What if I can't host a live auction?
The FatBracket app enables remote online bidding and virtual Calcutta events. Participants can join remotely via video conference and mobile bidding.

Do we need to be basketball experts?
Not at all! The excitement is more about the auction and side bets. Research helps inform bids, but part of the fun is the upsets and unpredictable nature of March Madness.