Complete Guide: NBA Betting Online - Types, Strategy & Tips
Legal sports betting has made NBA betting increasingly popular, especially in Ohio where fans can now bet on Cavs games. Here's a comprehensive guide to NBA betting:
Types of NBA Bets:
Moneyline
- Simplest bet type - pick which team will win
- Favorites shown with (-), underdogs with (+)
- Example: Cavs (-130) vs Thunder (+120) means bet $130 to win $100 on Cavs, or $100 to win $120 on Thunder
Two players diving for basketball
Point Spread
- Bet on margin of victory
- Levels playing field between teams
- Example: Cavs -2.5 means they must win by 3+ points
Totals (Over/Under)
- Bet on combined points scored
- Example: O/U 223.5 points (-110)
- Doesn't matter which team scores
Player drives toward basketball hoop
Other Bet Types:
- Parlays: Multiple bets combined for higher odds
- Props: Bets on specific events/stats
- Futures: Long-term bets like championship winners
Key NBA Betting Tips:
- Focus on current form over standings
- Check injury reports carefully
- Consider scheduling advantages/disadvantages
- Track player statistics for props
- Start simple with moneylines before complex bets
Important Considerations:
- NBA favorites win ~55% of games
- Parlays offer high risk/reward
- Research and disciplined betting are essential
- Keep track of trends and statistics
The NBA playoffs and Finals offer additional betting opportunities with similar markets available. Research thoroughly and bet responsibly for the best results.