How to Read a Basketball Point Spread
A point spread evens out a mismatch. If Real Madrid are -4.5 against Olympiacos, a bet on Madrid wins only if they win by 5 points or more. A bet on Olympiacos +4.5 wins if they win the game outright or lose by 4 or fewer.
The half point exists to remove a push. With a whole-number spread such as -4, a 4-point win returns your stake.
Spreads are usually priced near 1.90 on both sides, while a heavy favourite on the moneyline might pay only 1.20. When you rate a team as clearly stronger than the market does, the spread often gives better value than the moneyline.
Put it into practice
Betting involves risk. 18+.