How To Bet Basketball Over Under
Betting on basketball over/unders can be a great way to add some excitement to your viewing experience while also potentially earning some extra cash. However, understanding how to bet on these markets can be tricky, especially for beginners. In this article, we will break down the basics of over/under betting in basketball and provide some tips on how to improve your chances of success.
What is Over/Under Betting in Basketball?
Over/under betting, also known as totals betting, is a type of bet where you wager on whether the total combined score of both teams in a basketball game will be over or under a predetermined number set by the sportsbook. This number is known as the “total” or “over/under” and can vary depending on factors such as the teams playing, the playing styles of the teams, and the location of the game.
For example, if the total for a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat is set at 220.5, you can bet on whether the total points scored in the game will be over or under this number. If you bet on the over and the final score of the game is 115-110 in favor of the Lakers, you win the bet. If you bet on the under and the final score is 105-100, you also win the bet.
Tips for Betting on Basketball Over/Unders
- Do Your Research
Before placing a bet on a basketball over/under, it is important to do some research on the teams playing, their recent form, and any other factors that may affect the outcome of the game. Look at the statistics for both teams, including their average points scored and allowed per game, as well as their shooting percentages and turnover rates. Consider the playing style of each team and how it may affect the game’s pace and scoring.
Also, keep in mind that the location of the game can play a significant role in the final score. For example, games played at high-altitude venues like Denver’s Pepsi Center tend to have higher scores than those played at sea level. Similarly, games played in indoor arenas with fast playing surfaces like the Phoenix Suns’ Talking Stick Resort Arena may lead to more scoring than games played on slower surfaces.
- Watch Out for Injuries and Suspensions
Injuries and suspensions can have a significant impact on a team’s performance and the final score of a basketball game. Before placing your bet, check for any injuries or suspensions on both teams and consider how they may affect the game’s outcome. If a key player is out due to injury, for example, the team may struggle to score or defend effectively, which could lead to a lower-scoring game.
- Consider the Officials
The officials assigned to a game can also play a role in the final score. Some officials are known for calling more fouls and awarding more free throws, which can lead to higher-scoring games. Others may be more lenient in their calls, which could lead to a lower-scoring game. Check the officiating crew assigned to the game and consider how their style of calling the game may affect the outcome.
- Bet Responsibly
As with any form of gambling, it is important to bet responsibly when betting on basketball over/unders. Only bet with money that you can afford to lose, and never chase your losses by placing bigger bets than you normally would. Set a budget for your betting and stick to it, and never let your emotions dictate your betting decisions.
- Use Multiple Sportsbooks
To increase your chances of success when betting on basketball over/unders, it can be helpful to use multiple sportsbooks. By comparing the odds offered by different sportsbooks, you can find the best value for your bets and potentially increase your winnings. Additionally, some sportsbooks may offer different totals for the same game, so it is important to shop around to find the best line.
- Follow Line Movement
The line movement refers to the changes in the total set by the sportsbook leading up to the game. If you notice that the total has moved significantly from its opening line, it may indicate that there has been significant betting activity on one side of the total. Consider why this may be the case and adjust your betting strategy accordingly.
For example, if the total for a game opens at 220.5 and moves up to 225.5, it may indicate that there has been heavy betting on the over. This could be because one of the teams is known for having a high-scoring offense or because there is a favorable matchup that could lead to more scoring. If you agree with this analysis, you may want to consider betting on the over as well.
- Consider Betting on Live Totals
Live betting allows you to bet on the total during the game, which can be a great way to take advantage of changing circumstances. For example, if a game starts off slow and the total drops significantly, you may want to consider betting on the over as the teams start to pick up the pace. Similarly, if a game starts off fast and the total rises, you may want to consider betting on the under as the teams start to tire and the scoring slows down.
- Manage Your Bankroll
Managing your bankroll is essential to long-term success when betting on basketball over/unders. This means setting a budget for your bets and sticking to it, even if you are on a winning streak. It also means being disciplined with your bet sizes and avoiding the temptation to place larger bets than you normally would in an attempt to recoup losses or chase big wins.
Betting on basketball over/unders can be a fun and potentially profitable way to add some excitement to your viewing experience. By doing your research, considering factors such as injuries and suspensions, following line movements, and betting responsibly, you can increase your chances of success and maximize your winnings.
