Basketball is an exciting sport with a fast pace, exquisite techniques, and unpredictable results. For bettors, basketball offers interesting betting opportunities, and Handicap is one of the most popular types of bets. If you are interested in handicap betting in basketball, JILIMACAO will explain in detail how it works, how to bet, as well as some tips to help you increase your winning rate.
What is Handicap in Basketball?
Handicap is a type of bet used to balance the difference in strength between two competing teams. In a basketball match, there is often a difference in ability between the teams, and a handicap will help make the confrontation more balanced in the eyes of bettors.
With a handicap, the bookmaker will assign several points (handicap) to the weaker team before the match starts. This means that if you bet on the stronger team (the favorite), that team must win by a larger margin than the handicap for you to win the bet. Conversely, if you bet on the weaker team (the underdog), that team only needs to not lose by more than the handicap, or win the match, then you will win the bet.
How to Read Handicap Betting in Basketball
Handicap betting in basketball can be displayed in many different forms, including full-game handicaps and half-time handicaps. Each bookmaker will offer different odds depending on the match and the starting lineup, but the basic way to read the odds is as follows:
Handicap for the favorite team (-): The stronger team will have to win by a larger margin than the handicap. For example, if team A gives team B 5.5 points, team A must win by at least 6 points for you to win the bet.
Handicap for the underdog team (+): The weaker team will have the handicap added to the actual result. If team B is given a handicap of 5.5 points, you will win the bet if team B loses by no more than 5 points, or if team B wins.
For example:
A match between team A and team B with a handicap of A -5.5 / B +5.5:
If you bet on team A, team A needs to win by at least 6 points to win the bet.
If you bet on team B, team B can lose by 5 points or less, or win the game, then you will win the bet.
How to Bet on Handicap Betting in Basketball
To bet on handicap betting in basketball, you need to grasp some important factors related to the match and the lineup. Here are some tips to help you increase your chances of winning when betting on handicap.
Understand the team’s form
The form of the teams is the most important factor when evaluating handicaps. Consider the recent history of both teams, especially in head-to-head matches. Which team is in good form, and which team is having trouble with personnel or injuries?
Don’t just look at the results of wins and losses. Consider how the team plays in each match, by how much margin they win, or by how small or large a margin they lose.
Learn about the starting lineup
In basketball, the absence of a big star or a change in the starting lineup can have an impact on the outcome of the match. Before placing a bet, you need to find out whether the key players of both teams will be playing.
If a star like LeBron James or Giannis Antetokounmpo is not playing, this can make it difficult for the favorite to maintain good form.
Consider home advantage
In basketball, home advantage plays quite a role, especially in leagues like the NBA. Teams often perform better when playing at home, thanks to the support of the audience and a familiar environment. Consider this factor when evaluating the handicap.
Analyze the schedule
A dense schedule can affect the physical and mental health of the players. If a team has to play continuously for many days, they may not be in their best form, even if they are considered the stronger team. Check the schedule before placing a bet to see if the team has enough strength to win by a large margin.
