If you want to make money betting on the NBA and you’re interested in doing it like a pro, then you’re going to have to approach sports betting as if it were a job. That is because for the professional sports bettor, that is exactly what this is. That means taking it seriously and working at it every day.
Successful sports bettors don’t pull picks out of the air. They’re successful because they do the research, engage in the work, and they perform the necessary analysis to ensure that they are making smart picks. They do not approach NBA betting like the general public, which is in a haphazard manner.
Staying Connected to the NBA
In order to make sound sports bets, it’s important to stay connected to the NBA every day, including the off-season. Staying informed of daily developments is essential, and during the season you want to make sure that you’re receiving alerts regarding any news that might influence a team’s performance.
Utilize sites such as NBA.com, ESPN, FOX Sports, and others. Subscribe to a site or two that can offer you expert analysis and not hype. The more you know, the better your chances are of making smart bets.
Checking the Lines
Lines are posted anywhere up to three days before the game. Constantly check spreads, moneylines (if you can find them), and totals. Watch for movement that may help you.
Remember two things about odds. The less the general betting public is interested in a game, the less time bookmakers will spend handicapping it. Games that don’t capture the public’s attention can be good bets, as the odds are often soft.
Also, early odds are usually soft, so it’s important to check them on a continuing basis. As it gets closer to game time, the lines and totals will tighten up when it becomes clearer which players will be used, how the two teams match up, and what the outcome will most likely be.
Matchups Are Important
Matchups are an essential aspect of handicapping. Include every position, the sixth man, specific performance data such as shooting percentage, three-point percentage, shots blocked, and steals, and the coaching. All stats must be compared, and be sure to matchup a team’s offense against its opponent’s defense.
Handicapping Carefully
Professional sports bettors carefully handicap each game. They understand and factor in home court advantage (which can be huge in the NBA), how much rest each team has had, how long of a road trip the visitors have been on, and much more.
Another important factor is whether one of the teams was recently involved in a very tough game or one that went into overtime. In addition, many people note that when a very good team loses to a terrible team, that they often get angry and embarrassed and blow out the next team they face.
Engage in the Game
It is very important that you stay engaged in the game. If you can watch it from start to finish, consider making a halftime bet as the odds on such wagers can be very attractive. If you cannot watch the game, try to arrange to get updates. After the contest is over check the play-by-play, stats, and box score. Also, make sure you read reports regarding the game and the postgame experience.
A Continuing Student
NBA bettors are students of the game and of the best wagering practices. You should always try to learn more, and to use that knowledge to your advantage. Don’t treat sports betting on the NBA lightly, or you may end up with a light bankroll. Treat it like the job that it is.