Our NBA first-basket scorer predictions are carefully crafted using advanced data analytics, player performance trends, and proven strategies, ensuring you’re equipped with the most accurate and up-to-date predictions. On Sunday, there is just one game to choose from when making our first basket predictions, which you can find below from today’s NBA Finals matchup in pro basketball.
Today’s NBA First Basket Predictions
| Game | First Basket |
|---|---|
| Pacers vs Thunder | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (+400) |
Indiana Pacers vs Oklahoma City Thunder – 8:30 PM ET
Our NBA first basket pick for Sunday is for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to score first in Game 2 of the NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder. SGA scored the first basket of Game 1, getting to the basket on OKC’s second possession of the game. Here, we expect the Thunder to start with the ball again and for SGA to assert himself early on as he looks to help his team even this series at a game apiece.
Player Notes
- The Thunder will be expected to win the jump ball with Chet Holmgren again in Game 2.
- SGA’s high usage rate will make him a heavy favorite to score first again in this game.
First Basket Scorer: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (+400) vs Pacers at DraftKings
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About NBA First Basket Bets
One of the fastest rising sports betting markets today is the NBA first basket scorer prop. This market is settled within the first couple of minutes of each game, making it appealing to those looking for fast action.
What Is An NBA First Basket Bet?
NBA first basket picks are bets on which player will score the first basket in each NBA game. In this market, it does not matter which team wins, or how many points a player finishes a game with. All that matters is which player makes the first shot of each game, as bettors can wager on individual players ahead of each contest.
The big appeal to these bets is twofold. First, these markets are settled very quickly, allowing bettors to move onto other sports betting pursuits after the first bucket is scored in a game. Additionally, first basket props come with nice plus prices at all times, meaning that bettors can cash in big time if they predict who makes the first shot.
What Are the Rules For NBA First Basket Scorer Props?
When it comes to putting our best bets for this prop market into action, the first thing a bettor needs to do is understand the rules at the sportsbook they want to use. The most important thing to understand is what constitutes the first basket at each sportsbook. Some sportsbooks count made free throws as the first shot made, while other betting sites require a made field goal. That can be the difference between a first basket bet being a win and a loss.
Bettors should also understand the rules surrounding player absences when placing a bet in this market. Most player props like this require a player to take the floor in their games, or the bet will be voided. When it comes to this type of bet in particular, some US sportsbooks may even require a player you bet on to start, as it is nearly impossible for a player to score first unless they are out there to play from the start.
Handicapping Games For First Basket Scorer Prop Bets
Now that you understand what this bet is and how it works, it is time to get into some of the nuts and bolts of betting on games in this unique prop market. Keep reading for a few major tips to maximize your chances to win this type of bet as often as possible.
The Opening Tip
In order for a team to score first in their games, it is beneficial for them to start with the ball. To gain possession first, teams need to win the jump ball to open the contest. That makes the opening jump ball the first place bettors should go when doing their first basket handicapping. There is data out there on how the center on each team performs on jump balls, and bettors can use that along with an assessment of the athleticism of each big man to figure out who will help their team get the ball first.
Understanding Each Team’s Offense
After breaking down the jump ball, bettors should also be sure to develop an understanding of how each team runs their offense. Looking at usage rates and shot attempt data can provide some insight as to which player is the most likely to do the scoring early in each contest. While it can be tempting to bet on the best player on each squad to score first, some players at longer odds could be more worth backing in some spots.
Matchups between an offense and the opposing defense are also important to break down before placing a bet in this market. Some teams may be better at defending certain positions than others, leading to role players having a better chance to score against those defenses. It is up to bettors to determine where the value lies before playing this market throughout the season.
