What Is 2nd Half – Odd/Even (Incl. Overtime) in Basketball Betting?
The 2nd Half – Odd/Even (Incl. Overtime) betting market focuses on predicting whether the total number of points scored by both teams in the second half (plus any overtime) will be odd or even.
Key point:
This includes 3rd and 4th quarters, and overtime (if it happens).
How It Works
- You don’t need to predict the winner.
- You just choose whether the total combined points scored in the 2nd half + overtime is odd (like 145, 167, 189) or even (like 144, 166, 188).
Odd Total Example
If the 2nd half + overtime total points = 97, that’s odd.
Even Total Example
If the 2nd half + overtime total points = 100, that’s even.
Example Using Real Teams
Let’s say there’s a basketball game between:
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors
1st Half Score:
- Lakers: 60
- Warriors: 55
Total = 115 (this doesn’t matter for this market)
2nd Half + Overtime:
- Lakers: 55
- Warriors: 58
Total = 113
113 is an odd number, so if you bet on Odd, you win.
If you bet on Even, you lose.
Important Notes
- “Incl. Overtime” means if the game ends in a tie after regulation and goes to overtime, the points scored in overtime count toward your bet.
- Some bookmakers also offer the same market “excluding overtime”, so always check the details before placing your bet.
Why Bettors Like 2nd Half – Odd/Even Bets
- Simple and Fast – No need to analyze team strength, just total points.
- Perfect for Live Betting – You can bet at halftime after watching the first half’s tempo.
- Equal Odds – Typically around 1.90 (–110) for both Odd and Even, giving you a fair 50/50 chance.
Expert Betting Example
Game: Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat
- At Halftime: Celtics lead 65–60.
- You notice both teams are playing fast-paced with many free throws.
- You predict the 2nd half will also be high-scoring.
- You choose Even for the 2nd Half (Incl. Overtime).
2nd Half Result: Celtics 56, Heat 54 → Total = 110 (Even) you win!
Pro Betting Tips
1. Watch the Game Pace
- If both teams play quick offense, expect high scores, and totals can swing either way—avoid betting emotionally.
2. Consider Free Throw Fouls
- In close games, frequent fouling in the 4th quarter can push the total to either side (Odd/Even).
3. Use Live Betting
- Place bets at halftime after seeing how the game flows rather than guessing before tip-off.
4. Track Historical Trends
- Some teams tend to have consistent 2nd-half scoring patterns (e.g., Lakers often have high-paced 4th quarters).
5. Don’t Chase Losses
- Odd/Even bets are basically 50/50; they’re fun but should not be used to recover from other losses.
Summary Table
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 2nd Half – Odd/Even (Incl. Overtime) | Predict if total points in the 2nd half + overtime are odd or even |
| Winning Example | 2nd half total = 113 → Odd bet wins |
| Losing Example | 2nd half total = 110 → Even bet wins |
| Includes Overtime? | Yes |
| Type of Bet | 50/50 simple market |
| Ideal For | Beginners & live bettors |
Final Thought
The 2nd Half – Odd/Even (Incl. Overtime) bet in basketball is perfect if you want a simple, fast-paced wager without worrying about who wins. It’s purely about whether the combined 2nd half score ends up odd or even.
Use halftime stats, pace, and fouls to make smarter picks — and remember, sometimes the simplest bets bring steady wins.