Meaning of “Over 70.5 in 1st Half” Bet
This bet means you’re predicting that both teams combined will score more than 70.5 points in the first half of the basketball game (that’s the 1st and 2nd quarters together).
- Over 70.5 wins if the total points in the 1st half = 71 or more
- Under 70.5 wins if the total points in the 1st half = 70 or less
The “.5” ensures there is no tie — you can only win or lose.
Example with a Team
Let’s take the Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings (NBA) as an example.
Bet: Over 70.5 points in 1st Half
Your Prediction: Combined points from both teams will be 71+ before halftime.
| Quarter | Warriors | Kings | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 36 | 33 | 69 |
| Q2 | 37 | 32 | 69 |
| 1st Half Total | 138 (Over 70.5 wins easily) |
You win the bet because the 1st half total (138) is greater than 70.5.
Another Example (Losing Scenario)
Miami Heat vs Boston Celtics
| Quarter | Heat | Celtics | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 18 | 20 | 38 |
| Q2 | 15 | 16 | 31 |
| 1st Half Total | 69 (Under 70.5 wins) |
You lose because the combined points (69) are below 70.5.
Why Bettors Pick “Over 70.5”
- Fast-paced teams: Teams like the Indiana Pacers, Golden State Warriors, or Atlanta Hawks play quick offense, which leads to more 1st half points.
- Poor defenses: If both teams are weak defensively, it’s easier for the score to surpass 70.5 early.
- Good 3-point shooters: High shooting efficiency boosts total points rapidly.
Betting Tips for Over 70.5 1st Half
- Check Team Tempo:
- Look at Pace Rating (possessions per game). Fast teams = more scoring chances.
- Example: Indiana Pacers or Milwaukee Bucks often go Over early.
- Home/Away Scoring Trends:
- Some teams start hot at home. Example: Warriors often score more at Chase Center.
- Back-to-Back Games:
- Fatigued teams may defend poorly early, helping an Over hit.
- Injury Reports:
- If a key defender is missing (like Rudy Gobert for Minnesota), expect higher 1st-half totals.
- Use Live Stats:
- Watch the 1st quarter pace. If both teams are already pushing 35–40 points by Q1, an in-play “Over 70.5 1st Half” bet has strong value.
Chat Example (Illustration)
You: “I’m thinking Over 70.5 for Warriors vs Kings.”
Me: “Good choice — both average over 120 PPG and play fast. Their last 3 1st halves had 66, 72, and 74 points. Over 70.5 has value if Curry and Fox are both starting.”
You: “Nice, I’ll take it before tip-off!”
Summary
| Bet Type | Condition | Example Result |
|---|---|---|
| Over 70.5 1st Half | 1st half total > 70.5 | 72–68 Win |
| Under 70.5 1st Half | 1st half total ≤ 70 | 34–33 Lose |