Veronica Villarreal | May 11, 2023 | Updated on: May 12th, 2023
If you’re a sports enthusiast in Australia and you love NBA basketball, you may be interested in learning more about NBA betting. NBA betting is a popular way to add some excitement to your love of basketball while potentially earning some extra cash. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of NBA betting and provide tips on increasing your chances of success.
Best Sports Betting Sites to Bet on NBA
Understanding NBA Betting Odds
Before you start NBA betting, you need to understand the odds. Odds represent the probability of a particular outcome occurring. In NBA betting, odds are expressed in one of three ways: American odds, decimal odds, or fractional odds.
American odds are the most common odds format used in the United States. They’re expressed as either a positive or negative number. Negative numbers represent the favourite, while positive numbers represent the underdog. For example, if the odds on a game are -110, you’d need to bet $110 to win $100. If the odds are +150, you will win $150 for a $100 bet.
Decimal odds are commonly used in Europe and Australia. They’re expressed as a decimal, with the number representing the total payout for a $1 bet. So, for example, if the odds are 1.75, you’d win $1.75 for every $1 bet.
Fractional odds are also used in some parts of the world. They’re expressed as a fraction, with the first representing the potential winnings and the second representing the bet amount. So, for example, if the odds are 5/2, you’d win $5 for every $2 bet.
Types of NBA Bets
NBA betting can be a fun and exciting way to enjoy the game while having a chance to win money. However, with so many types of bets available, it can take time to know where to start. Gaining knowledge about these various types of bets can assist you in making informed decisions while placing wagers, thereby enhancing your probability of winning.
There are several types of NBA bets you can make, including:
1. Moneyline Bets
The easiest form of NBA bet is to predict which team will emerge victorious in the game. Moneyline bets are expressed in odds format. For example, a moneyline bet on the Los Angeles Lakers at -150 means you must bet $150 to win $100. A moneyline bet on the underdog team, such as the Memphis Grizzlies at +120, means a $100 bet would win you $120.
2. Point Spread Bets
In point spread betting, the favourite team is given a handicap, while the underdog is given a head start. This makes the betting more even and creates more balanced odds. For example, if the point spread on a game is -4.5, the favourite team would need to win by more than 4.5 points for the bet to be successful. Conversely, the underdog can lose up to 4 points and still cover the spread.
3. Over/Under Bets
Totals, also known as Over/Under bets, involve predicting the total number of points scored in a game. The bookmaker establishes a number, and the bettor decides whether the final score will exceed or fall short of that figure. For instance, if the Over/Under is at 215, you can place a bet on whether the total points scored by both teams will be over or under 215.
4. Prop Bets
Proposition bets, commonly referred to as prop bets, are bets made on specific occurrences during a game. These may include anything from which team will score first to which player will score the most points. Prop bets add an additional layer of excitement to NBA betting and are particularly favoured by occasional bettors.
5. Futures Bets
Futures bets are placed on upcoming events, such as predicting the winner of the NBA championship or the season’s MVP. Bettors can place these bets before the start of the season, enabling them to capitalize on advantageous odds.
6. Parlay Bets
Parlay bets involve betting on multiple games in one single bet. All the individual bets in the bet slip must successfully win the parlay. Parlay bets can provide higher payouts than individual bets but also carry a higher risk due to the increased number of outcomes to predict.
NBA Live Betting
Betting on the NBA live is a thrilling experience for basketball fans and bettors. Live betting allows you to place wagers on the game as it happens, with the odds and lines constantly changing in real time.
Live NBA betting offers several advantages over traditional pre-game betting. For example, you can observe the game’s momentum, individual players’ performance, and both teams’ tactics to make more informed betting decisions. With live betting, you can also take advantage of the in-game odds and lines that can change quickly, creating opportunities for smart bettors to capitalize on the situation.
When betting live on the NBA, staying focused on the game and making quick decisions is essential. It’s crucial to have a solid understanding of the game’s dynamics, such as the game’s pace, each team’s strengths and weaknesses, and the player rotations. As the game progresses, you can use this information to make informed betting decisions that could lead to a profitable outcome.
However, live betting also carries additional risks compared to pre-game betting. The thrill of the game can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to make hasty decisions that can lead to substantial financial losses. Therefore, it’s essential to have a clear betting strategy and to stick to it throughout the game.
NBA Betting Tips
Now that you understand the basics of NBA betting, here are some tips to help you increase your chances of success:
- Ensure you research thoroughly – Prior to placing any bets, investigate the teams, their past performance and playing strategies. Analyse trends and patterns that may hint towards a particular outcome.
- Set a Budget – Set a budget for NBA betting and stick to it. Don’t chase losses by placing larger bets to try to recoup them.
- Compare Odds from Different Bookmakers – Bookmakers may offer varying odds for the same game, so it’s crucial to shop around and locate the most favourable odds.
- Stay Disciplined – Don’t let your emotions cloud your judgment. Stick to your betting strategy and stay disciplined.
FAQs About Betting on NBA
To bet on NBA, you need to choose a reputable online sportsbook or bookmaker that offers NBA betting. Once you have registered and deposited funds, you can browse the available NBA games and select the type of bet you want to place. You can place bets on moneylines; point spreads, over/under bets, prop bets, futures bets, and parlay bets. Then, follow the instructions on the betting site to place your bets and wait for the game’s outcome.
Yes, NBA betting can be profitable if you make informed and strategic betting decisions. This involves researching the teams and players, understanding the different types of bets, and keeping track of the odds and lines. While there is no guarantee of success, disciplined and responsible betting can increase your chances of profitability.
There are several reputable NBA betting sites, and the best one for you depends on your preferences and needs. Some popular options include Bet365, Betway, DraftKings, and FanDuel. Before choosing a betting site, consider the user interface, betting options, bonuses and promotions, and customer service.
In basketball betting, +4.5 indicates the point spread for the underdog team. This means that the underdog team is given a 4.5-point head start, and if they lose by 4 points or fewer or win the game, the bettor wins the bet.
To bet online for NBA, you need to choose a reputable online sportsbook or bookmaker that offers NBA betting. Then, register for an account, deposit funds, and select the NBA game you want to bet on. Next, choose the type of bet you want to place and follow the instructions on the betting site to place your bets.
Yes, you can bet on every NBA game if you choose to do so. However, it’s essential to be selective and strategic in your betting decisions and only bet on games where you feel you have an edge.
The best way to bet on basketball is to research, stay disciplined, and make informed betting decisions. This involves understanding the game, the teams, the players, and the different types of bets. It’s also essential to have a clear betting strategy and to stick to it throughout the betting process.
NBA odds are created by bookmakers and sportsbooks based on various factors such as team form, player availability, and head-to-head statistics. While these odds are generally accurate, they are not infallible, and upsets can happen. Therefore, doing your own research and making informed betting decisions is essential.