What “Over 40.5 – 3rd Quarter” Means
This bet means you are predicting that both teams combined will score more than 40.5 points in the third quarter of a basketball game.
- Over 40.5 wins if the total points scored in the 3rd quarter are 41 or more.
- Under 40.5 wins if the total is 40 or fewer.
This bet only applies to the 3rd quarter, not the entire game.
Example with Real Teams
Let’s take an example:
Game: Golden State Warriors vs Los Angeles Lakers
Bet: Over 40.5 points – 3rd Quarter
Suppose the 3rd quarter plays out like this:
- Warriors score 22 points
- Lakers score 21 points
Total = 22 + 21 = 43 points
Result: 43 > 40.5 → Your bet wins!
If instead:
- Warriors score 18 points
- Lakers score 20 points
Total = 38 points
Result: 38 < 40.5 → Your bet loses.
Why Bettors Focus on the 3rd Quarter
The 3rd quarter is often a momentum shift quarter:
- Coaches make halftime adjustments.
- Starters return with more energy.
- Scoring usually increases compared to the 2nd quarter.
However, some teams slow down or play stronger defense after halftime — so research matters.
Example with Team Analysis
Example Match:
Boston Celtics vs Milwaukee Bucks
- The Celtics average 27.5 points per 3rd quarter in their last 5 games.
- The Bucks average 26.8 points per 3rd quarter in their last 5 games.
- Combined average = 54.3 points per 3rd quarter.
In this case, betting Over 40.5 makes sense because their recent averages are much higher.
Betting Tips for “Over 40.5 – 3rd Quarter”
- Check recent 3rd-quarter stats:
Look at how many points both teams usually score in the 3rd quarter of their last 5–10 games. - Monitor game pace:
Fast-paced teams like the Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers, or Golden State Warriors often produce higher 3rd-quarter totals. - Watch for fatigue or blowouts:
If one team leads by 25+ points, coaches may rest stars — leading to a low-scoring 3rd quarter. - Check halftime totals:
If the first half was low-scoring, coaches may push tempo in the 3rd quarter to recover — good for an Over bet. - Avoid defensive matchups:
Teams like the Miami Heat or Cleveland Cavaliers tend to play tight defense — making the Under more likely.
Sample Calculation Before Betting
If Team A averages 25 points per 3rd quarter,
and Team B averages 23,
→ Combined = 48 points expected.
That’s well above 40.5, so betting Over 40.5 has value.
Quick Summary
| Bet Type | Description | Wins If | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over 40.5 3rd Quarter | Predict total points in 3rd quarter exceed 40.5 | Total ≥ 41 | Celtics 23 – Bucks 21 (44 pts ) |
Expert Tip:
Target Over 40.5 3rd Quarter when:
- Both teams rank in the top 10 for pace or offensive rating.
- The halftime score is tight, increasing intensity and scoring after the break.
Would you like me to show average 3rd-quarter points stats for top NBA teams (e.g., Warriors, Bucks, Celtics) to help you identify good Over 40.5 picks?