There are numerous different strategies punters can use to give themselves an edge against the bookmakers when they are betting on sport.
Position trading and matched betting are amongst the most popular, with each capable of delivering winning returns if applied correctly.
In basketball, many punters use the Martingale betting system to guarantee themselves a profit from their wagers on the sport. Read on as we take a closer look at the strategy.
Background to the Martingale System
The Martingale System first originated in France back in the 18th century and was designed for games where there were just two outcomes.
It became a popular strategy in roulette, with players using it to extract a profit from wagering on either black or red.
While the mathematics behind the Martingale are undoubtedly sound, there are a couple of flaws that make it difficult to implement successfully.
With the bet doubling in size after every losing bet, a player needs a hefty bankroll in order to cope with a lengthy run of unsuccessful wagers.
In addition, many people are unable to stay disciplined enough to just stick to the system and resist the temptation of placing other bets.
The Martingale System in Basketball
To successfully apply the Martingale System to basketball you must concentrate on scenarios that are priced at odds of Evens (2.00) or higher.
For example, you start by placing a $40 bet at odds of 2.00 on the Cleveland Cavaliers to beat the Detroit Pistons. If you win you have a profit of at least $40 and you begin the process again.
However, if the Cavaliers lose your next bet is doubled to $80. Providing every bet in the sequence is placed at odds of 2.00 or greater, you will eventually make a profit.
In this instance, let’s assume that you back the Cavaliers again after their initial loss and they win their second outing. Your total outlay at this point would have been $120 ($40 plus $80).
Assuming odds of at least 2.00 on each occasion, your minimum return would be at least $160 – possibly more if the odds were higher. This represents a profit of at least $40.
Although a long losing run could make a huge dent in your bankroll, rigidly following the system does eventually guarantee a profit.
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