Sports Betting 101
Sports betting has exploded across America since the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in 2018, with wagers placed on just about every sport and event you can imagine. From NBA Sundays to UFC fight nights, the opportunity for profits has never been higher, thanks to the accessibility of online sportsbooks.
Before placing a bet, it’s crucial to understand the different types of bets. A straight bet is simply a wager on a single outcome, like a team winning a game or an individual player scoring a goal or touchdown. A moneyline bet is the most common type of bet, where you place your money on the winner of a game, or an individual player’s performance (how many home runs will they hit, for example).
Over/Under bets are based on the total number of points, goals, or runs scored in a game, and can be combined into parlay bets. Typically, the more games are played in a given matchup, the higher the Over/Under will be. Regardless of how you choose to bet, it’s important to remember the old adage: “It’s never over until it’s over.”
To be profitable in sports betting over the long haul, you must have a strong understanding of the rules and regulations of each sport, as well as in-depth research into teams, players, head-to-head matches, and injuries. You must also practice a strict discipline, including bankroll management and setting limits on your bet size.