A Guide to First Basket Betting

If you’re looking for some unique prop bets to liven up a basketball game, the first basket bet could be perfect. It’s a popular prop bet, and in this short guide, we’ll tell you all about it. 

What is a First Basket Bet in Basketball?

As the name suggests, the first basket bet is a wager on the player who will score the first points. It can also be placed as a team bet, in which case you’ll see options for both teams as opposed to all players.

Example of a First Basket Bet

Typically, a first basket bet will give you a list of player options, such as:

• Player A from Team A
• Player B from Team A
• Player C from Team A
• Player A from Team B
• Player B from Team B
• Player C from Team B

You choose the one you think will score first and you’ll win if you’re correct.

Do Free Throws Count as a First Basket Bet?

First basket bets focus on the first points, and that includes free throws. If your chosen player scores a free throw, it should still count as the first basket.

First Basket Betting Strategy

The first basket bet is largely dependent on who wins the tip-off. This is true whether it’s a player bet, in which case it’s likely to go to their top scorer, or a team bet, in which case it will be the team that wins the tip-off.

The best strategy, therefore, is to focus on the team that has the taller players and highest rebound numbers.

How to Place a First Basket Bet with FanDuel Sportsbook

FanDuel has bets for first player basket and first team basket. You can find these under the prop bet section of major basketball games. Find your preferred player or team, click the box, and then set your wager in the bet slip.

How to Place a First Basket Bet with DraftKings Sportsbook

DraftKings has a lot of basketball prop bets, including this one. Visit the prop bets section of a basketball game, click the bet you want to make, and then adjust your stake in the bet slip. Double-check the amount before clicking “Place Your Bet”.

How to Place a First Basket Bet with BetMGM Sportsbook

Although first basket player bets are uncommon here, you can find first basket team bets under “which team will score the first points?”. Choose one of the two options and then set your stake and place your bet.

How to Place a First Basket Bet with PointsBet Sportsbook

In addition to the three main shortlisted wagers, PointsBet includes an option for “X Wagers”, with “X” being the additional lines offered for that game. Click this link and then look for the first basket bet. It’s not available on all games, but it’s usually there on the big ones.

How to Place a First Basket Bet with BetRivers Sportsbook

Find your game and choose the “More Bets” link. You’ll find the first basket bet among the many additional options, although it’s usually only there for the big games. When you find the bet line, click one of the two options to add it to your slip and then set your stake.