Basketball markets offer three primary bet types: moneyline, spread (point handicap) and total (over/under points).
Moneyline is straightforward — you pick the winner. Decimal odds of 1.65 on the favourite mean a €10 bet returns €16.50. The underdog at 2.30 would return €23.
Spread levels the field by adding or subtracting points from the final score. If the Lakers are -7.5 against the Clippers, the Lakers must win by 8 or more for a spread bet on them to win. The half-point removes the possibility of a push (exact tie on the spread).
Total points (Over/Under) — the bookmaker sets a line, e.g. 221.5. You bet whether the combined score will exceed or fall short of that number. Back-to-back schedule, pace of play and defensive ratings all drive where the true total sits.
BetEdge approach: the NBA is one of the most heavily modelled markets in the world, which narrows soft lines. We find edge by combining pace-adjusted offensive and defensive ratings with schedule fatigue — particularly second-night back-to-backs where starters often see reduced minutes — and comparing against Pinnacle's closing line before publication.