Basketball betting lines always include a point spread, and you must cover the spread in order to win the bet. If the Lakers are favored over the Bulls and the point spread is 3, you would win your bet on the Lakers only if they won by at least 4 points. If you bet on the Bulls, they have to win the game or lose by 2 points or 1 point in order for you to collect on your wager. If the Lakers win by exactly 3 points, your bet is considered a push (no matter which team you bet on) and your wager is returned to you.

You can bet parlays in basketball. As in other sports parlays, all of your teams must cover the spread in order for you to win the parlay. Payoff odds vary depending on how many teams you bet on and the sportsbook where you place your bet. Teasers also are available in basketball betting; as usual, you must play at least two teams to use the teaser option.