No matter whether you’re a Nuggets or a Heat fan, you’ll find a home at these NBA betting sites.
NBA Betting Sites 2024
In the midst of substantial industry growth, American bettors now face a challenging dilemma. Choosing between the array of premier NBA basketball betting sites in today’s dynamic sports betting arena is, without a doubt, a very intricate challenge.
A wide range of fully accredited online sportsbooks offer what seems like a limitless selection of betting possibilities for each NBA matchup, transforming the decision-making process into a rather complex task. The American bettor is now just a few clicks away from getting competitive NBA odds for an extensive catalog of betting markets that cover even the most intricate events of an NBA game.
There are lots of things to consider before betting on the NBA. Which site offers the best parlays? Where can I get the best odds boosts? Which app offers the most diverse range of player props? The good news is all of the sites we have listed offer the above in one form or another, but inevitably tastes differ.
Our team of NBA betting aficionados has meticulously assessed each NBA betting site and NBA betting app with thorough scrutiny, aiming to streamline the huge selection into a fine collection of the top NBA betting sites and help you with everything you need to know about placing bets on the NBA.
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- Accepts deposits as low as $5
- Hefty welcome and referral bonuses
- Available in 22 US States
- Superb range of sports
- Enticing rewards program
- Extensive catalogs of betting markets
- Massive Choice of Sports
- Daily Odds Boosts
- Convenient Banking
- Great Mobile App
- Brilliant Welcome Bonus
- Range Of Bet Types
- Great Welcome Bonus
- 20+ Sports to bet on
- Been operating since 2000
5 Best NBA Betting Sites 2024
#1. 🥇 DraftKings
For NBA enthusiasts in over 20 states across the US, DraftKings stands as the NBA betting haven. DraftKings is my favorite NBA basketball betting site, complete with exceptional coverage, super-enticing NBA odds, and a cutting-edge mobile app. Through this betting app, NBA bettors can effortlessly craft Same-Game Parlays, place live bets, compare NBA lines, or relish NBA action in real time through impeccable live streaming.
I always get excited by the game props and player bets that DraftKings has to offer on NBA games. There are endless possibilties for bettors, and I can easily customize my bet to get exactly the odds I want. DraftKings also has good betting lines and prices its bets well, so you know you get the best bang for your buck at this sportsbook.
One of my favorite features is the DraftKings SGP toggle switch, with which I can easily build my same game parlay bets. It neatly compiles all the game props, quarters and halves, player bets and other betting markets that I can place on the same game together. I also open the Quick SGP from time to time, just to get some ideas from the preselected parlay bets at DraftKings.
In the ever-evolving betting industry, one constant has defined my years of NBA betting: DraftKings’ unwavering commitment to providing an engaging and rewarding experience. Thanks to the super-reliable live streaming and live betting platforms, DraftKings has rightfully earned its top spot on my list of online NBA betting sites.
- Accepts deposits as low as $5
- Hefty welcome and referral bonuses
- Available in 22 US States
#2. 🥈 BetMGM
With a wide range of NBA markets, competitive odds for games from both the regular season and the playoffs and numerous live betting options, BetMGM caters to both seasoned NBA betting veterans and NBA betting rookies.
BetMGM has a stellar reputation among sportsbooks, and it provides you with all the tools you need to bet like a pro. I have tested the platform’s advanced betting options, such as multiple selection parlays, round robins, teaser bets and even tried a few NBA futures. It passes with flying colors, and if you are looking for an easy user-interface, top level security and reliable customer support, I would strongly recommend BetMGM.
For NBA bettors, there is the added bonus of live streams and a plethora of live betting markets. I found that when betting live, the platform works seamlessly, without those annoying pauses or stops while the odds are recalculated. It is quite the experience to bet on NBA games live at BetMGM, and to make it more worthwhile, the sportsbook gifts regular bonuses and promos.
BetMGM, for me, has always been my go-to place when in need of a reliable NBA sportsbook where I can find the best odds for plenty of NBA futures markets. BetMGM’s platform boasts a wealth of features and enticing promotions that can make it a go-to choice for you throughout the NBA season.
- Superb range of sports
- Enticing rewards program
- Extensive catalogs of betting markets
#3. 🥉 FanDuel
With a flawlessly working mobile app, an appealing Welcome Offer, and a massive catalog of NBA betting types, FanDuel is enhancing the NBA betting thrill even further. Like many other sports fans, I started using FanDuel Fantasy before it opened a sportsbook, and so I was already familiar with the platform.
From the regular season straight through to the NBA Finals, I have bet at FanDuel, and it was a truly adrenaline-pumping experience. The NBA coverage is top shelf quality, with masses of game props and player bets to keep you on your toes. Always a fan of big parlays and system bets, I could combine some top selections to create epic bet slips.
FanDuel also offers a throng of bonuses, such as enhanced odds during the most significant NBA playoff games, and regular no sweat bets, so I could be a bit bolder with my wagers. If you want a little taster of what action awaits you at FanDuel, I would suggest looking at the Parlay Hub. This feature shows all the hottest parlay bets being placed at FanDuel right now, for NBA and all other major US sports.
“Although the coverage of all NBA games, along with the appealing bonuses, boosted odds, and live betting options, are usually the main reasons when choosing an NBA betting site, what keeps me coming back to FanDuel every time my Knicks are playing is the flawless live-streaming feature. It’s as if I have courtside tickets to every game while making my basketball bets.
- Massive Choice of Sports
- Daily Odds Boosts
- Convenient Banking
#4. 🎖️ Caesars
With its rich assortment of niche NBA betting markets, highly competitive odds for the most heated NBA rivalries, and a reliable platform with a user-friendly interface, Caesars Sportsbook is a stellar choice for plenty of NBA betting enthusiasts.
Caesars Sportsbook is the gift that keeps giving. I was not worried when I blew through my welcome bonus, as I kept getting more bonuses through the Caesars Rewards loyalty program. And it only gets better with time. Now, I can reel in some mega offers, and put them to good use through my NBA bets.
Just in terms of design, Caesars interface is a solid win for me. It has a light and dark mode, and lots of quick tools with which you can review your bet, manage your account funds, and contact customer support, which always comes in handy. The support is fully professional too, and I have reached out to them on numerous occasions to enquire about promotions and tournaments.
Caesars Sportsbook is definitely one of the finer sportsbooks out there. I agree with Oliver, that the design and interface of both the app and betting site are very pleasing. Behind that though, the betting markets and promotions are what really excite me about this sportsbook, and it has one of the best loyalty programs too.
- Great Mobile App
- Brilliant Welcome Bonus
- Range Of Bet Types
#5. 🏅bet365 Sportsbook
bet365 is a global leader in sports betting and although they are new to the American market, they have made an instant impact. The layout of the desktop site and app enables you to locate the NBA markets with ease, and there is so much to go at when you click the NBA tab.
You can choose from Futures, Same Game Parlay+, props and more. I also really like the way bet365 have the option of viewing the current standings alongside all of the available bet types, so you can check the current form of the teams and how they are doing to make an informed choice, all in the same location.
The bet boost menu is also another huge plus point when using bet365. Click this option and you will get numerous options to enhance your odds via a moneyline or same game parlay wager.
I love the bet boost option on bet365. When putting together my parlay on a Heat 76ers game, to be able to enhance my odds from +475 to +550 is great. The fact that doing all this is so simple with everything in one place is also an added bonus.
- Great Welcome Bonus
- 20+ Sports to bet on
- Been operating since 2000
What is the NBA?
The NBA, or National Basketball Association, is a professional basketball league in the United States. The NBA is the most elite professional basketball competition worldwide and home to some of the most valuable sports franchises.
History of the league and structure
The NBA is a league with an unbelievably rich history. From its humble beginning in 1946 as the Basketball Association of America (BAA) to its evolution into the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1949 to becoming the current cross-cultural sports phenomenon, the league has journeyed through dynamic eras.
From the iconic battles of legends like Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain to the electrifying dunks of Julius Erving, the airtime magic of Michael Jordan, Kobe’s Mamba Mentality, the Reign of King LeBron James and the three-point revolution led by Steph Curry, the NBA never stopped being an ever-evolving masterpiece.
The league now features 30 NBA teams divided into two conferences known as the Eastern and the Western conference, with each conference being divided into three divisions. Here are all the teams currently competing in the NBA.
Eastern Conference
NBA Eastern Conference | ||
---|---|---|
Atlantic Division | Central Division | Southeast Division |
Boston Celtics | Chicago Bulls | Atlanta Hawks |
Brooklyn Nets | Cleveland Cavaliers | Charlotte Hornets |
New York Knicks | Detroit Pistons | Miami Heat |
Philadelphia 76ers | Indiana Pacers | Orlando Magic |
Toronto Raptors | Milwaukee Bucks | Washington Wizards |
Western Conference
NBA Western Conference | ||
---|---|---|
Northwest Division | Pacific Division | Southwest Division |
Denver Nuggets | Golden State Warriors | Dallas Mavericks |
Minnesota Timberwolves | Los Angeles Clippers | Houston Rockets |
Oklahoma City Thunder | Los Angeles Lakers | Memphis Grizzlies |
Portland Trail Blazers | Phoenix Suns | New Orleans Pelicans |
Utah Jazz | Sacramento Kings | San Antonio Spurs |
Competition format and schedule
The battle for the Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy is long-lasting, and it spans from early October to mid June. This is the usual NBA yearly schedule:
- NBA Preseason – The NBA preseason is a warm-up period before the regular season starts. Teams play a few games to prepare, test strategies, and evaluate new players. It’s like a practice run before the real games begin. The NBA preseason typically occurs in early October, a few weeks before the regular season begins. Nearly all NBA preseason games are available for betting at the best online NBA sportsbooks and NBA betting apps.
- NBA Regular Season – The NBA regular season spans from October to April, during which each team plays 82 games. Teams face opponents within their own conference and division more frequently. They also play games against teams from the opposite conference.
- NBA Playoffs – The NBA playoffs are a later stage of the competition where the top eight teams from each conference, based on their regular season performance, compete in a series of elimination rounds. The format of the playoffs is best-of-seven series, culminating in the conference finals.
- NBA Finals – The NBA Finals is the grand culmination of the basketball season, pitting the Eastern and Western Conference champions against each other in a captivating best-of-seven series. The team that wins four out of the seven games takes home the prestigious Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.
NBA Awards
The NBA offers numerous awards that honor outstanding individual achievements and contributions to the basketball world – which also provide extensive betting opportunities. Here are the most prominent ones.
- Most Valuable Player (MVP) – Given to the player considered most crucial for their team’s success in the regular season.
- NBA Finals MVP – Given to the player who demonstrates exceptional performance and influence throughout the NBA Finals series.
- Defensive Player of the Year – Presented to the player who stands out in defensive abilities and makes the highest impact on their team’s defensive performance.
- Rookie of the Year: Awarded to the best-performing first-year player.
- Sixth Man of the Year – Awarded to the best-performing player coming off the bench as a substitute.
- Most Improved Player – Awarded to the player who displays the most improvement in their performance from the previous season.
- Coach of the Year – Presented to the head coach who has made the most notable contributions to their team’s achievements.
Key Features of an NBA Betting Site
In the quest to find the best basketball betting sites, I have evaluated multiple NBA betting sites online across a spectrum of crucial categories.
Variety of Betting Types
The range of NBA betting types is vital, offering a range of options like prop bets, alternate lines, futures, and same-game parlays. The more bets you can pick from the better, and I have found that at the top US sportsbooks my whole betting strategy has become more refined due to the sheer diversity of options. This diversity fuels engagement, caters to varied strategies, and adds excitement to the betting experience, appealing to a wide range of enthusiasts and enriching the appeal of the NBA sportsbook.
Range of Banking Options
Secure and dependable payment methods are crucial for NBA online sportsbooks. They provide the necessary trust and convenience, ensuring each financial transaction is safe from breaches. Reliable options enable smooth deposits and withdrawals, enhancing user satisfaction and platform credibility. With reputable brands such as DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars and BetMGM, the support is on point, and you can rest assured that the payments are both swift and safe.
Live betting options
In the action-packed world of the NBA, where the action unfolds rapidly, having an abundance of live betting options holds immense significance for both avid fans and strategic bettors. My criteria for live betting are quite simple. I like to see extensive betting markets, little to no delay in regenerating the odds, gamecards that highlight useful information, and lastly, live streams is a massive plus. Through live betting, premium legal NBA betting sites grant bettors the ability to react swiftly to game-changing moments and optimize their strategies.
Mobile Compatibility
In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to access NBA odds and place wagers seamlessly through your mobile devices is vital. Therefore, the significance of having an online sportsbook with excellent mobile compatibility cannot be overstated. Some sportsbooks offer mobile betting, but the user experience is not as good as betting through the sites. Whether this is due to excessive advertising, poor design or performance issues, it is frustrating to say the least.
I have used the designated mobile betting apps for each of the sportsbooks I reviewed, and they all provide seamless betting and easy-to-use tools. They all designed to serve the user, so you will have no problem diving straight in and hitting those lucrative betting odds.
How To Get Started with NBA Betting
- Accepts deposits as low as $5
- Hefty welcome and referral bonuses
- Available in 22 US States
- Superb range of sports
- Enticing rewards program
- Extensive catalogs of betting markets
- Massive Choice of Sports
- Daily Odds Boosts
- Convenient Banking
- Great Mobile App
- Brilliant Welcome Bonus
- Range Of Bet Types
Due to technological advancements and the expansion of online betting, placing a wager on an NBA game has become exceptionally convenient. A few simple steps, taking only a matter of minutes, are all it takes to complete the process and start your NBA betting journey today. Here is how.
- Visit the official website of the NBA betting site of your choice or download the official app.
- Locate the Register or Sign Up button and click on it.
- Provide your personal information, including your name, date of birth, email address, and phone number.
- Choose a unique username and a strong password for your account.
- Verify your identity. Some sports betting platforms may require identity verification. This could involve uploading a photo of your ID and proof of address.
- Accept the terms and conditions and press Submit.
After successfully setting up your betting account, it’s time for you to make your first deposit. Here is how to proceed.
- Locate the Cashier section in the Account menu and select Deposit.
- Choose a payment method and enter the amount you want to be added to your account.
- Claim the Welcome Bonus if the NBA betting site offers one.
Once the money gets added to your account, it will be time to explore the plethora of NBA betting markets and place bets on your preferred NBA games. To do so, head to the Basketball section, often found on the left side of the screen, and select NBA. Select one of the offered NBA games and your preferred betting market. Finish by entering the desired wager amount, then hit confirm.
How NBA Betting Odds Work
NBA betting odds work identically as the odds for most other sports available at your favorite basketball betting apps. They are typically showcased in three familiar formats: American, Fractional, and Decimal, with the first one being the most widely embraced by American NBA betting fans.
American Odds
American odds are presented as either positive or negative numbers. The odds marked by a minus sign indicate how much each bettor needs to bet to win $100. On the other hand, the odds marked by a plus show how much each bettor can win if they bet $100. Here is an example:
- Golden State Warriors (-150)
- Los Angeles Lakers (+250)
If a bettor backs the Warriors, they would need to bet $150 to win $100, and if a bettor backs the Lakers, a $100 bet would get them a $250 profit.
Fractional Odds
In fractional odds, the first number represents the potential profit, and the second shows the amount the bettors need to bet. For example, a $1 bet on 3/1 odds would win you $3, while a $3 bet on 8/3 odds would win you $8.
Decimal Odds
The decimal odds for NBA games show the possible payout for every $1 bet, including the initial wager. For example, a $1 bet on odds of 2.50, would produce a payout of $2.50. So, if a player bets $10 on odds of 2.50, they could win $25. The fastest way to calculate your potential payout using decimal odds is to multiply your bet by the given odds.
NBA Betting Strategies
Betting on NBA games can be pure joy. There is nothing like predicting a player will have a big game and betting in him to hit the over on points and then it happening. However, to be successful with it, you must be ready to devote time to do your NBA betting homework and implement a wise betting strategy. It took me time to get my betting strategy to where it is today, and I am always looking for new opportunities and different ways to bet. Here are a few of the tricks I have picked up along the way.
Research and Analysis
When it comes to NBA betting, conducting thorough research and analysis is crucial. The stats I dig for before placing my bets relate to the following:
- Past 6 NBA games performance
- Home/away performances
- Player injuries
- Average points scored
- First/second half record
- Head to head record
With some basic data, I already know which bets I want to place on the upcoming game. Avg. points scored and the first/second half records are especially exciting, because I can check out the odds on the quarters/halves and total points markets.
Stay Current with the Latest NBA News
By being well-informed through the news, you can place an NBA bet based on the most current and relevant information, increasing your chances of making accurate predictions. Therefore, I always stay up-to-date with all the latest news about player injuries, lineup changes, team dynamics, and other developments that can provide critical insights that can shape your betting decisions.
Focus on Player Matchups
When making player prop bets, paying attention to player matchups is essential. Understanding how individual players perform against specific opponents can provide valuable insights, helping you make more accurate predictions and increase your chances of a successful NBA bet.
Player props should definitely not be ignored, as there are some lucrative opportunities to be had. They are not my go-to bets, but I always check out what is on offer at the top sportsbooks as occasionally I can find some unmissable odds.
Utilize Live Betting
Having a live betting strategy in NBA games can provide a dynamic advantage. While watching the game as it unfolds, you can identify momentum shifts, player performances, and tactical changes in real time. This allows you to catch favorable odds and adjust your bets accordingly.
I always try to look for early indicators in a game that can affect the outcome. If a team is tired for example, or one takes on a quick lead but the other team is only starting to warm up. The odds are always better when the lead switches several times during a game, but it carries a lot of risk. I have also picked out some great bets with one-sided games, when one team is always playing catch up.
Types of NBA Bets
Luckily for the fans, the NBA isn’t just about thrilling basketball action – it also serves up a buffet of betting possibilities for the bettors. Amid a wide array of NBA bets offered by the best NBA betting sites, fans can savor an extra helping of excitement both during the game and beyond.
Moneyline Bet
This is by far one of the most simple bets you can place on an NBA game. By placing a Moneyline bet, you are betting on which team will win the game, regardless of the point spread.
Moneyline Bet (3-Way)
Unlike the conventional moneyline, which presents only two potential results, a 3-way Moneyline involves a bet encompassing three possible outcomes. By placing a 3-Way Moneyline bet, you can bet on each team to win the game in regulation time or draw.
Point Spread Bet
By placing an NBA spread bet, you are betting on the point difference between the two teams at the end of a game. The “point spread” is a margin set by the sportsbooks to even out the matchup. When placing NBA spread bets, you can pick a team to cover the spread by winning by more points than the spread or beat the spread and either win the game outright or lose by fewer points than the spread.
Totals (Over/Under) Bets
By placing an Over/Under bet, you are trying to predict if the combined final score of both teams in an NBA game will be higher or lower than that predetermined total set by the sportsbooks.
Futures Bets
Could this be the big year for the Durant-led Phoenix Suns? Will the Joker manage an MVP three-peat? If you think so, then here is the perfect bet for you! Futures are types of bets that involve betting on long-term outcomes, such as which team will win the NBA Championship, MVP, or division titles. The odds for this type of bet can change throughout the NBA season, reflecting team performance and player achievements. This provides a unique opportunity to predict and profit from the unfolding narrative.
Player Prop Bets
Player prop bets are where the NBA betting gets really interesting. When placing NBA Player Prop bets, bettors wager on individual player performances not necessarily connected to the final outcome. These bets can include predicting the number of points, rebounds, assists, or other statistical achievements a specific player will attain during a game.
Team Prop Bets
Through NBA team prop bets, bettors can wager on things like which team will score the initial points, the total three-pointers scored by each team, the quarter with the highest combined points scored, the total team free throws made, and plenty of other options.
Parlay Bets
Nothing can produce a nerve-wracking NBA betting adventure better than a Parlay. These bets allow bettors to combine multiple predictions into one ticket, aiming for a grander prize. To win the parlay bet, you must accurately predict all the individual legs from it.
With parlays, it also matters which sportsbook you place your bets at. My chosen sportsbooks allow you to pick up to 10+ selections for your parlay. Other sportsbooks may limit the number of selections you can put into your parlay bets.
Same-Game Parlays
If the NBA parlay bets were like crafting a sandwich, Same-Game parlays are more like assembling a puzzle. A puzzle with different pieces from a single game.
Imagine an NBA showdown between the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat. Your hunch is that Jayson Tatum will score over 20 points, Bam Adebayo will secure 10 or more rebounds, and the Heat will emerge victorious. By placing a same-game parlay bet, these three predictions can be combined into a single wager with a higher payout. However, to win it, you must get all the predictions accurately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Due to the blend of excitement, strategy, and potential rewards it offers, NBA betting can be captivating to the point of becoming addictive. In order to avoid the pitfalls of NBA betting addiction, bettors must exercise responsible betting practices and avoid making typical sports betting mistakes. Here are the most common ones they should stay away from.
Being Flexible With Your Bankroll
Whether on a massive winning streak or lured to chase that one jinxed Knicks loss, each bettor must remain uncompromising and stick to their bankroll. Being overly flexible with their bankroll can usher bettors to inconsistent decision-making, resulting in significant financial losses.
Placing Bets Driven By Impulses and Feelings
Making uninformed wagers based on clouded judgment is one of the most common mistakes bettors make. While supporting our favorite teams is a shared enthusiasm, relying on emotions rather than rational analysis significantly boosts the likelihood of placing uninformed wagers.
To avoid such mistakes, bettors should always embrace methodical and controlled strategies and favor a strictly rational and disciplined betting approach.
Chasing Loses
Chasing losses in sports betting is a practice as old as time and is certainly not a way to bring home the bacon. The desire to recover losses quickly usually results in hasty and poorly considered betting decisions that can lead to terrible outcomes. Maintaining composure, following a clear strategy, and fighting the urge to chase your losses are the best ways to remain responsible during your NBA betting journey.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Engaging in NBA game betting within the USA is legal, provided you meet the age requirements and you’re currently located in a state where sports betting is authorized. Nonetheless, selecting licensed sportsbooks is of utmost importance.
By choosing licensed sportsbooks, bettors contribute to a responsible and protected betting ecosystem while enjoying the excitement of NBA games. These platforms operate under a US-issued license and deliver a fair and transparent betting experience while providing their clients with the utmost protection of their personal and financial information.