Sports betting has shot up in popularity over the last few years. According to the American Gaming Association, over 46 million folks in the United States considered placing a bet on the 2022 pro football season alone. Part of the draw is the rush of guessing how a game will finish, along with the potential reward for a winning pick. If you’re new to all this, it’s good to start by understanding the basics of various bet types. That way, you can step into the betting world with a clearer idea of what you’re doing and (hopefully) keep your bankroll safe.
Different wagers can vary from simple “pick a winner” bets to more creative options like betting on how many points will be scored. Each approach has pros and cons, so it helps to pick something that suits your style and comfort level. Some bet types offer a quick way to win big (like parlays), while others are steadier but might bring in smaller returns (like moneyline bets on heavy favorites).
Understanding the different types of wagers is just one part of the equation—where you place your bets can also make a big difference. Some platforms offer extra perks that can enhance your experience, from better odds to smoother payouts. People that enjoy gaming platforms that offer perks such as bonuses, promotions, and easy cash-outs. WalletInvestor’s list of the best offshore sportsbooks includes platforms with faster withdrawal times and a wide variety of wagering options, making them a convenient choice for those who enjoy having access to wagers at any time. With the right sportsbook in place, the next step is figuring out which type of bet makes the most sense for you. One of the simplest options is the moneyline bet, where you only need to guess which player or team will win.
For example, if a baseball team is at -150, that suggests you’d need to wager $150 to gain $100 in profit. If it’s at +150, you’d expect a $150 profit for every $100 staked. Next up is the point spread, which introduces a bit more nuance. Here, the favored side must win by a set margin, while the underdog can lose by a certain amount (or win outright) for you to succeed.
Over/under (also called totals) gives you a chance to bet on whether the combined score of a game goes above or below a predetermined figure. This style works well if you feel confident in predicting a defensive standoff or a free-scoring match. A parlay strings multiple picks together and pays handsomely if all legs hit—though one slip-up and the entire ticket is busted. Another variation is the teaser, which lets you adjust spreads in your favor, while a pleaser does the opposite by moving the line against you for a bigger possible reward.
There are also prop bets, which focus on specific events that might not relate directly to the end result (like who scores first). Meanwhile, futures allow you to bet on a season-long outcome, such as which football team might win it all or which basketball star is going to be named MVP. These wagers can keep you interested all season, though you have to wait a while to discover whether you’ve won.
No matter which route you take, a couple of things are always helpful. First, reading up on sports news and stats never hurts. With the convenience of Sports Streaming, you can also check back the highlights yourself. Check out whether a star player is out with an injury or if a team’s been on a hot streak—it could tilt the balance of your bet. Second, keep a budget in mind. Gambling is more enjoyable when it’s done responsibly, so setting aside a fixed amount for bets can help you avoid stress.
