In the realm of US sports betting, nuances and specifics can make all the difference.
One frequently asked question revolves around second-half bets and whether they include overtime.
In this article, the GoBet team aims to clarify this aspect, providing clear insights for bettors in the United States.
What is a Second-Half Bet?
A second-half bet pertains to wagers placed exclusively on the second half of a sporting event. These bets can encompass a range of outcomes, from point totals to player performances, but they’re solely focused on the events of the second half, disregarding what transpired in the first half.
Do Second-Half Bets Include Overtime?
In most sports and according to the majority of sportsbooks, second-half bets do not include overtime. The rationale is straightforward: overtime is considered a separate entity from regular game time.
Therefore, when you place a second-half bet, you’re wagering solely on the outcomes of the second half, not any potential overtime that might follow.
Examples to Illustrate Second-Half Betting
NBA Game
Imagine you’ve placed a second-half bet on an NBA game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat, predicting that the total points scored in the second half will be over 100.
If the second half concludes with a combined score of 95 and then 20 points are scored in overtime, your bet would be a loss, as the overtime points are not counted.
NFL Game
Similarly, if you bet on the New York Giants to score more points than the Dallas Cowboys in the second half of an NFL game, and the scores are even at the end of the fourth quarter, any points scored in overtime would not impact your bet.
Why the Distinction Matters
Understanding the boundaries of your bet is crucial for informed wagering.
Being aware that second-half bets exclude overtime ensures bettors won’t be caught off guard by unexpected outcomes.
It also allows for more strategic betting, as bettors can assess teams’ second-half performances without the unpredictability of overtime.
Our Conclusion on Second-Half Bets and Overtime
In the world of sports betting, details matter. While second-half bets offer a unique avenue for wagering, it’s essential to recognize their limits.
In the context of US sports, these bets typically exclude overtime, allowing bettors to focus solely on the dynamics of the second half.
As always, it’s advisable to check specific sportsbook rules and understand the terms before placing any bets.
