If you’re new to sports betting, you might have heard the term “prop bet” thrown around and wondered what it means. Short for “proposition bet,” a prop bet is a type of wager that’s not directly tied to the outcome of a game. Instead, it focuses on specific events or occurrences within the game. It’s like betting on the mini-dramas that play out during a match. Think of it as the fun, quirky cousin of traditional betting.
Whether you’re on a real-money sportsbook or social sportsbook, prop bets work the same. Here’s how it works.
How Prop Bets Work
Let’s say you’re watching a football game. A regular bet might involve wagering on which team will win or the total points scored (also called the over/under). A prop bet, on the other hand, could be something like:
- Will the quarterback throw more than 300 yards?
- Who will score the first touchdown?
- Will there be a safety during the game?
Prop bets aren’t limited to sports stats either. In big events like the Super Bowl, you’ll find props for things like the length of the national anthem or the color of the Gatorade dumped on the winning coach. The variety is what makes prop betting so entertaining—there’s something for everyone.
New to betting? You should read our super-simple guide on how to bet on sports.
Types of Prop Bets
- Player Props: These bets focus on individual player performance. For example, “Will LeBron James score over 25 points tonight?”
- Game Props: These are tied to team or game performance. For instance, “Will either team score in the first five minutes?”
- Fun Props: These are often offered during major events. Think bets on the halftime show at the Super Bowl or how many times a coach might be shown on TV.
Why People Love Prop Betting
Prop bets are a blast because they let you stay engaged with the game, even if the overall score isn’t close. For example, maybe the team you’re rooting for is losing, but you’ve got a prop bet riding on a specific player making a big play. Suddenly, every pass or run matters again.
Prop bets are also great for casual bettors or people who aren’t die-hard sports fans. They’re easier to understand and more fun to follow than some of the more complex betting options out there.
Tips for Prop Betting
- Do Your Research: Even though prop bets can feel lighthearted, you’ll improve your chances of winning if you do a little homework. Look up player stats, recent performances, and trends before placing your bets.
- Stick to What You Know: If you’re a basketball fanatic, focus on basketball props. Venturing into sports or events you’re not familiar with can be a quick way to lose money.
- Set a Budget: Like all types of gambling, it’s essential to know your limits. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on prop bets and stick to it.
- Resist the Same-Game Parlay: Combining prop bets into a single wager can be tempting, but the higher reward comes with much higher risk.
- Shop Around: Different sportsbooks might offer slightly different odds on the same prop bet. Take a few minutes to compare and find the best value.
- Start Small: If you’re new to prop betting, don’t go overboard. Place smaller bets while you get the hang of it.
Check out our complete sports betting strategy guide.
Final Thoughts
Prop betting is a fun way to add extra excitement to your sports-watching experience. Whether you’re guessing who’ll score the first goal or how many three-pointers a player will sink, props let you engage with the game on a whole new level. Just remember to gamble responsibly and enjoy the ride—because at the end of the day, it’s all about having fun.