The US National Basketball Association (NBA) is big in Australia, despite the geographical distance. This popularity is also increasing due to Australian players such as Patty Mills, Will Magnay and Josh Green competing in the league.
In this article, I’ll explore the top betting sites that cater to Australians for betting on the NBA.
Top betting sites for NBA fans in Australia
Thankfully, there are a plethora of NBA betting websites in Australia. Here’s our pick of the top five sites:
- PlayUp
- bet365
- Unibet
- Picklebet
- Colossalbet
PlayUp
PlayUp has a user-friendly platform with a simple design that just works. There is a good range of NBA betting markets with competitive odds. In terms of promotions, players can expect a variety on offer, including welcome bonuses and existing offers for regular customers. There is also a mobile app that provides a great experience on the go.
bet365
This is a renowned global betting site that’s known for its sports coverage. There is a large number of NBA betting markets covering all major and minor league aspects. Its odds are competitive, too. In terms of user experience, bet365 is sleek and efficient. The site also has a range of promotions and bonuses for both new and existing customers.
Unibet
This is a trusted name that’s known for its extensive sports coverage. Unibet has a good range of betting markets. The odds are competitive and the platform itself offers a user-friendly experience. For bonuses, there are free bet offers and other ongoing promotions.
Picklebet
This is a unique betting site. It specialises in esports but it also has NBA betting options. The markets aren’t as extensive, however. The site itself is straightforward to use but it’s not as flashy as its competitors. There also aren’t as many bonuses and promotions focused on NBA.
Colossalbet
This is a newer site for Australians and it has a selection of NBA betting markets. The odds are competitive here but the promotion offerings aren’t as extensive as some other sites. The user experience is positive, though, and the site has a modern feel.
Understanding NBA betting
To understand NBA betting, you need to know about the various markets, odds formats and key betting terms. Here’s what you need to know:
Popular betting markets
Here are the most popular NBA markets:
- Moneyline: This is the simplest type of bet. Essentially, you predict which team will win the game. Teams are assigned odds, and the favourite is indicated by a negative number. The underdog has a positive number.
- Point spread: The spread is the margin of victory assigned to a team. Bettors wager on whether the team will win by more than the spread for the favourites and less than the spread for the underdog.
- Over/under (total): This involves predicting whether the combined score of the teams will be over or under the number set by the bookie.
Odds formats
Decimal odds are widely used in Australia. They represent the potential return on a successful bet, including the initial stake. Odds of 2.00 show that a $1 bet would return $2 in total (this includes the original stake).
In other parts of the world, you might see fractional odds, like 3/1. This is common in the UK. 3/1 means that for every $1 wagered, the bettor receives $3 in profit as well as the initial stake returned.
How to choose top betting sites
For a positive experience, you need to consider a range of factors before deciding where to play. Here are your key considerations:
- Reputation and reliability: Look at the betting site’s reputation. Check for licenses from recognised authorities. Also read independent customer reviews to gauge the site’s trustworthiness.
- Range of NBA betting markets offered: Look at the variety of markets on offer and compare them to the top NBA picks. Check for things like point spread, moneyline, over/under, player props and futures bets.
- Odds: Compare the competitiveness of the odds. See if they’re favourable compared to competitors.
- User interface and experience: Assess the site’s design and layout. Check for features like bet builders, cash out options and live betting.
- Mobile betting: Consider whether the site has a mobile app or a user-friendly mobile website.
Strategy for NBA betting
NBA betting is exciting but to maximise your chances of winning, here are some simple strategies:
- Stay informed: Research the latest news from the NBA. This includes team performance, player injuries and other relevant factors.
- Analyse trends: Look at metrics on team and player performance to inform your bet choices.
- Monitor line movement: Keep an eye on odds fluctuating to gauge the sentiment in the market.
- Manage your bankroll: Don’t spend more than you can afford to lose and never chase losses.
Add more excitement to your NBA games this season
The NBA captivates Australians, despite the country’s distance from the US. Top betting sites for Australians include PlayUp, bet365, Unibet, Picklebet and Colossalbet. If none of these appeal to you, there are plenty more. For maximum success and enjoyment, make sure you understand the ins and outs of the NBA, and the statistics and history of the teams you’re betting on.
