Does overtime count in basketball betting?

For the three most popular basketball markets — moneyline, handicap and totals — overtime is included in settlement at all major UK bookmakers. Quarter-specific bets and half-time markets settle on regulation time only. Three-way moneyline markets (where a draw at the end of regulation is an option) also exclude overtime by definition. If you are ever unsure, the market header at your bookmaker will typically state "including overtime" or "regulation time only." When it does not, check the operator's basketball settlement rules before placing your bet.

What happens if a basketball game is abandoned?

If a basketball game is abandoned before the minimum game time threshold is reached — 43 minutes for the NBA, 35 minutes for most other leagues — all bets are typically voided and stakes returned. Markets where the outcome was already determined before the abandonment (such as first-quarter bets after three quarters have been completed) usually stand. Postponed games that are rescheduled within the bookmaker's specified window (commonly 24–48 hours) remain valid. Games moved to a different venue may or may not trigger void conditions depending on the operator's rules.

What does "push" mean in basketball betting?

A push occurs when the result lands exactly on the betting line. For example, if you bet Team A -6 and they win by exactly 6 points, the bet pushes. On a single bet, a push returns your stake — you neither win nor lose. In an accumulator, the pushed leg is removed and the remaining legs are recalculated at the reduced number of selections. Some bookmakers handle pushes differently in same-game parlays, so check the specific terms. Half-point lines (like -6.5) exist specifically to eliminate the possibility of a push.

Are basketball betting winnings taxed in the UK?

No. In the UK, all gambling winnings — including basketball betting profits — are tax-free for the bettor. The tax burden sits with the operator, not the customer. HMRC does not require you to declare gambling winnings on your tax return, regardless of the amount. The operator pays Remote Gaming Duty on their revenue, which was increased from 21% to 40% in the 2025 Autumn Budget. That cost may indirectly affect the odds you are offered, but you will never have tax deducted from a payout.

What leagues can I bet on for basketball in the UK?

UK bookmakers with UKGC licences offer markets on the NBA, EuroLeague, BBL (British Basketball League), WNBA, NCAA college basketball (including March Madness), FIBA international competitions, and various European domestic leagues including Spain's Liga ACB, Turkey's BSL and Greece's Basket League. The NBA carries by far the widest market selection — often 100+ markets per game — while smaller leagues may be limited to moneyline and handicap only. Market availability varies between operators, so check before assuming your bookmaker covers a specific competition.

How do player props work in basketball betting?

Player props are bets on individual statistical outcomes — points scored, rebounds, assists, three-pointers made, and combined stat lines. You bet on whether the player will go over or under a specified line. For the bet to stand, the player must take the court; if a player is a late scratch and never plays, the bet is voided at most bookmakers. Overtime statistics are included in player prop settlement. If a player records limited minutes but does enter the game, the bet stands and settles on whatever stats they accumulate, even if they score zero.

What is point spread (handicap) in basketball?

Point spread and handicap are two names for the same market — the terminology differs between US usage ("spread") and UK/European usage ("handicap"). The bookmaker assigns a virtual point advantage to the underdog and an equivalent disadvantage to the favourite. If the spread is -7.5 on the favourite, that team must win by 8 or more points for the bet to win. The underdog at +7.5 can lose by up to 7 points and the bet still pays out. Overtime is included. Whole-number spreads can push if the margin lands exactly on the line.

Basketball Betting Articles UK 2026: Compare NBA Odds

WNBA game in progress with two teams competing on a brightly lit indoor court

WNBA Betting Guide

03.07.2026 • Uncategorised

I started paying attention to WNBA betting three seasons ago when I noticed the lines were soft enough that basic research gave me an edge I could not find in NBA markets. A league that used to be an afterthought for UK bookmakers has become a genuine betting product, with market depth expanding every year. […]

UK Basketball Betting Articles: Market Guides and Strategies