Sports betting can be an exciting way to engage with your favorite sports, but the terminology can sometimes be overwhelming for beginners BET88. To help you get started, here are the top 10 sports betting terms you should know.
1. Odds
Odds represent the probability of an event occurring and determine how much you can win. They are typically displayed in three formats: fractional (e.g., 5/1), decimal (e.g., 6.00), and moneyline (e.g., +500 or -150).
2. Point Spread
A point spread is a handicap given to the favored team to level the playing field. For example, if a team is favored by -7.5 points, they must win by at least 8 points for a bet on them to be successful.
3. Moneyline
A moneyline bet is a straightforward wager on which team will win the game. Positive odds (+200) indicate the potential profit on a $100 bet, while negative odds (-150) show how much you need to bet to win $100.
4. Over/Under (Total)
This type of bet involves predicting whether the total points scored in a game will be over or under a set number. If the line is set at 45.5, an “over” bet wins if the total score is 46 or higher.
5. Parlay
A parlay is a bet that combines multiple wagers into one. All selections must win for the bet to pay out, but the potential winnings are significantly higher than individual bets.
6. Prop Bet (Proposition Bet)
A prop bet is a wager on specific events within a game, such as which player will score first or how many yards a quarterback will throw.
7. Futures Bet
A futures bet is placed on an event that will be decided in the future, such as which team will win the championship or who will be the league MVP.
8. Juice (Vig)
The juice, or vigorish, is the commission charged by the sportsbook on a bet. For example, if both sides of a point spread are listed at -110, the sportsbook takes a small cut regardless of the outcome.
9. Push
A push occurs when the final score lands exactly on the betting line, resulting in a tie. In most cases, the bettor gets their money back.
10. Live Betting (In-Play Betting)
Live betting allows you to place bets on a game while it is in progress, with odds adjusting in real time based on the action.
Final Thoughts
Understanding these key terms will help you navigate the world of sports betting with more confidence. Whether you’re placing a simple moneyline bet or a complex parlay, knowing the lingo can make all the difference. Happy betting!