Betting on the Favorite
In sports betting, the term "favorite" refers to the team, player, or outcome that is expected to win a particular game or event. Favorites are indicated by negative odds, reflecting their higher perceived likelihood of success according to bookmakers.
For example, if a basketball team has odds of -200, it means you'd have to bet $200 to potentially win $100 in profit, along with your original $200 stake if they win. The smaller potential return is due to the team's higher chances of winning, making them the favorite.
Additionally, if you’d like to increase your return, you can place a point spread wager on a favorite. For example, if you bet on a team whose odds are -3, the team needs to win by 4 or more points for you to win your bet.
Favorites are usually considered stronger and more likely to come out victorious based on various factors such as recent form, past performance, and player injuries. However, it's essential to assess the odds and do your research before placing a bet, as upsets can and do happen in sports. Understanding favorites and underdogs helps you make informed betting decisions and potentially find value in certain bets.
