How to bet on NBA games? Spread, moneyline, and totals explained with easy examples

NBA betting has become one of the most popular forms of sports wagering in the United States. Whether you’re watching the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, or a late-night West Coast game, sportsbooks offer different ways to place bets. The three main markets are the spread, moneyline, and totals. Each works differently, and knowing how they operate can help you make better betting decisions.

What is the point spread in NBA betting?

The point spread is the margin oddsmakers set to make both teams equal in betting terms.

• If the Lakers are -5.5, they must win by at least 6 points for your bet to win.
• If the Celtics are +5.5, they can either win the game outright or lose by 5 or fewer points.

The spread balances strong and weak teams, making most games more competitive for bettors.

Also Read: Best NBA betting strategies for beginners in US

What is the moneyline in NBA betting?

The moneyline is the simplest NBA bet. You just pick which team will win the game.

• A -150 moneyline means you must bet $150 to win $100.
• A +130 moneyline means you win $130 on a $100 bet.

The negative sign shows the favorite, while the positive shows the underdog.

Also Read: How to bet on cricket: Test, ODI, and T20. Here is a complete guide

What are totals in NBA betting?

The totals market, also called over/under, is a bet on the combined points scored by both teams.

• If the total is 220.5 points:
  • Betting the over means you think both teams will score 221 or more.
  • Betting the under means you think the total will be 220 or fewer.

This is a popular option when you expect a high-scoring or defensive game.

Tips for betting on NBA games

• Check injury reports: Star players can change lines dramatically.
• Follow team schedules: Back-to-back games often affect performance.
• Look at pace and defense stats: Faster teams usually push overs; defensive teams lean unders.
• Manage bankroll: Never stake more than you can afford to lose.

FAQs

Q1. What is the easiest NBA bet for beginners?
The moneyline is the easiest because you simply pick the winner.

Q2. Is betting on the NBA legal in the US?
Yes, but it depends on your state. Many states now allow online sports betting.

Q3. Can I combine spread, moneyline, and totals in one bet?
Yes, sportsbooks let you create parlays combining different markets.

Q4. How do sportsbooks set NBA lines?
They use data such as team strength, injuries, and betting trends to balance action on both sides.

Q5. What is live betting in the NBA?
Live betting allows you to place bets while the game is happening, with odds updating in real time.