If you like basketball and want to bet on various matches, it’s very important to make rational decisions about the types of bets and bet units you should place, especially if you want to win something above your initially set bankroll. In fact, pro sports bettors don’t win as much as you think. Those who make a living by betting on sports actually win only 2or 3 % above the approximately 52% required to break even. The margin for error is obviously very small.
The purpose of this article is to help you make educated decisions when betting on basketball and give you the best shot to turn a profit over the long term.

Look For Value Bets

The people that make the lines (Lines Makers) are very good at what they do. However, they sometimes post a weak line when there are many matches on the board. If you find such line, bet on it. Sportsbooks must post lines on each match, but you don’t have to bet on every game. In fact, you can pick the lines that are beneficial to you.

Do Line Shopping

It’s always good to do some line shopping before you place a bet on a basketball game. It is recommended that you visit a number of sportsbooks and compare the odds for that game because they differ from one another. This will help you learn the best odds and make a good betting decision.

Use Solid Data

Sports bettors that are successful make betting decisions based on solid data and correct information well as gut feeling. Betting trends can also be helpful. If you want to beat the spread, you have to make good decisions. Therefore, it is very important to learn how to recognize what leads you to make winning betting decisions. The best tip would be to stay cold headed and don’t let emotions get in way of your judgment.

Keep an Eye on Line Moves

You should always keep an eye on line moves. If you notice that a line is moving towards a team and people are betting more on the other side, it might mean that good players are laying action and this gives you a good opportunity to follow them.

Bet the Money line on Underdogs

From time to time you should consider betting the money line on underdogs in a match. It might be difficult to find the right underdogs to win a straight-up match, but if you manage to pick a successful underdog you can win a lot of money without risking a big portion of your bankroll.

Set a Bankroll and Stick to It

Discipline, patience and an initially set betting bankroll are very important. You should always set a budget you are comfortable with before you start betting on basketball. In addition, set winning/losing betting limits and sick to them. It is also advisable to bet 1%-3% of your budget on a bet. This means that if you have a $500 bankroll, your bet should be between $10 and $15. This type of betting, also known as unit size betting, does pay off in the long run.