Basketball betting offers more than just simple straight bets. Two popular options among bettors are parlays and teasers, which allow you to combine multiple wagers into a single bet for increased payouts. These bets provide an exciting way to maximize potential winnings, but they also come with different levels of risk and reward.
If you’re looking for a way to increase your NBA Best Bets, understanding how parlays and teasers work can help you make sharper wagers.
This guide will break down basketball parlays and teasers, explain how they work, and help you determine which option suits your betting strategy. Whether you’re an experienced bettor or a newcomer looking to understand these popular wagers, this article provides all the information you need.
Understanding Basketball Parlays
A parlay is a single wager that includes multiple bets (or legs). In order to win, all selections in the parlay must be correct. If even one pick loses, the entire bet is lost. The advantage of parlays is the ability to win significantly more than betting on individual games.
If you’re keeping an eye on the NBA Teams for 2025, parlays can be a great way to bet on up-and-coming squads that show strong potential throughout the season.
Basketball Parlay Payouts
Parlay odds increase with each additional selection. Below are the standard payouts for basketball parlays:
| Number of Teams | Payout | Odds Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Teams | +260 | 13/5 |
| 3 Teams | +600 | 6/1 |
| 4 Teams | +1000 | 10/1 |
| 5 Teams | +2000 | 20/1 |
| 6 Teams | +4000 | 40/1 |
| 7 Teams | +7500 | 75/1 |
| 8 Teams | +10000 | 100/1 |
These payouts reflect standard parlay odds, but if any of the individual bets within the parlay have adjusted odds (e.g., -120 instead of -110), the overall payout will be recalculated.
Pros and Cons of Parlay Betting
Pros:
- Higher payouts compared to straight bets
- The potential to turn small wagers into significant winnings
- Can combine different types of bets, such as point spreads, moneylines, and totals
Cons:
- The risk is higher—one incorrect pick loses the entire bet
- Difficult to win consistently over time
Parlays can be an exciting and lucrative option for bettors who are confident in their picks. However, for those who prefer a more controlled betting approach, teasers may be a better alternative.
What Are Basketball Teasers?
A teaser bet is similar to a parlay in that it includes multiple wagers, but with one key difference—you can adjust the point spread or total in your favor. This adjustment makes winning easier, but it also reduces the payout.
How Teasers Work
Consider the following game lines:
Team A: +4.5 (-110)
Team B: -4.5 (-110)
Total: 194.5 (Over/Under)
If a bettor places a 4.5-point teaser, the adjusted lines would look like this:
- Team A: +9 (-110)
- Team B: Pick’em (EVEN)
- Over: 190 (-110)
- Under: 199 (-110)
The bettor now has more favorable lines, making the bet less risky. However, like parlays, all picks in a teaser must win for the wager to be successful.
If you’re following the leaderboard, you can use teasers to back top-performing teams with slightly more favorable odds, reducing the risk while still capitalizing on their success.
Basketball Teaser Payouts
| Teams in Teaser | Payout |
|---|---|
| 2 Teams | -110 |
| 3 Teams | +170 |
| 4 Teams | +300 |
| 5 Teams | +450 |
| 6 Teams | +700 |
| 7 Teams | +800 |
| 8 Teams | +1000 |
Some sportsbooks also offer Special Teasers, which allow for even greater point adjustments in exchange for lower payouts.
| Special Teaser | Points Given | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Teams | 7 Points | -120 |
| 4 Teams | 9 Points | -130 |
For example, in a 3-team, 7-point teaser (-120), a bettor would have to wager $1.20 for every $1 in potential winnings. The increased number of points makes winning easier, but the trade-off is a reduced payout.
Parlays vs. Teasers: Choosing the Right Bet
Both parlays and teasers have their advantages, but they cater to different betting strategies.
| Feature | Parlay | Teaser |
|---|---|---|
| Point Adjustment | No | Yes |
| Payouts | Higher | Lower |
| Risk Level | High | Moderate |
| Must All Bets Win? | Yes | Yes |
When to Bet on Parlays
- If you are confident in multiple selections
- If you want higher payouts for a small wager
- If you’re willing to take on more risk for greater rewards
When to Bet on Teasers
- If you want to reduce risk by adjusting spreads
- If you prefer more favorable betting lines
- If you are willing to accept lower payouts for a better chance of winning
Parlays are ideal for high-risk, high-reward betting, while teasers offer a more conservative approach with a better chance of cashing out.
Strategies for Betting on Parlays and Teasers
Keep It Simple – The more bets you add to a parlay or teaser, the lower your chances of winning. Sticking to 2-3 team parlays or teasers increases your probability of success.
Compare Odds – Different sportsbooks offer varying payouts on parlays and teasers. Shopping for the best lines can improve your long-term profitability.
Be Selective – Don’t include bets just to increase potential payouts. Only wager on teams and totals you believe in.
Manage Your Bankroll – Parlays are riskier than straight bets, so consider betting smaller amounts compared to single wagers.
Consider Teasing Totals – Adjusting over/under lines can be more predictable than spreads, particularly in games where scoring trends are more consistent.
Final Thoughts
Basketball parlays and teasers provide exciting ways to wager beyond traditional straight bets. Parlays offer high payouts but come with greater risk, while teasers allow for adjusted lines that make winning easier at a lower payout.
Understanding how these bets work and choosing the right strategy can help maximize your chances of success. Whether you’re looking to take a big risk with a parlay or play it safer with a teaser, knowing the pros and cons of each option will allow you to make informed betting decisions.
For those tracking the leaderboard, parlays and teasers can be valuable tools for betting on top teams while managing risk effectively.
