What “Over 43.5 | 3rd Quarter – Over/Under” Means
This bet focuses only on the total points scored by both teams in the 3rd quarter of a basketball game.
- You are betting whether the combined score in the 3rd quarter will be:
- Over 43.5 points (44 or more)
- Under 43.5 points (43 or fewer)
The .5 eliminates the chance of a tie (no push).
Example With Real Teams
Example 1
Game: Los Angeles Lakers vs Golden State Warriors
Market: 3rd Quarter – Total Points Over/Under
Line: Over/Under 43.5
Scenario Results
| 3rd Q Score | Total | Winning Bet |
|---|---|---|
| Lakers 24 – Warriors 22 | 46 | Over 43.5 wins |
| Lakers 20 – Warriors 21 | 41 | Under 43.5 wins |
How Sportsbooks Set the 43.5 Line
Bookmakers use:
- Team scoring averages in 3rd quarters
- Pace of play
- Defensive efficiency
- Historical matchup data
Example:
| Team | Avg 3rd Q Scored | Avg 3rd Q Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Lakers | 24 | 22 |
| Warriors | 23 | 21 |
Projected total: 45 points → so the book might set the line at 43.5
When to Bet Over 43.5
Bet the Over if:
Both teams play fast pace
Strong 3rd-quarter scoring history
Key scorers are not in foul trouble
Game is close (starters stay on court)
Example Over Bet
Bulls vs Celtics
- Bulls avg 3rd Q: 23 pts
- Celtics avg 3rd Q: 24 pts
Combined average = 47 → Good Over opportunity
When to Bet Under 43.5
Bet the Under if:
Both teams are defensive-focused
Coaches slow down tempo after halftime
Blowout risk (bench players = slower pace)
Poor shooting teams
Example Under Bet
Heat vs Cavaliers
- Heat avg 3rd Q: 20 pts
- Cavs avg 3rd Q: 21 pts
Combined average = 41 → Good Under opportunity
Simple Betting Strategy (Beginner-Friendly)
Over Strategy
Look for games where:
- First half pace was fast
- Teams had high field goal attempts
- Little foul trouble
Under Strategy
Look for games where:
- Star players are tired/injured
- Teams are missing open shots
- Coaches tend to run half-court sets
Quick Real-Life Betting Example
Match: Suns vs Nuggets
Bet: 3rd Quarter – Over 43.5
Odds: 1.90 (–110)
Result:
Suns 25 + Nuggets 21 = 46 points
Bet wins
Summary
“Over 43.5 | 3rd Quarter – Over/Under” =
You are betting on whether both teams combined score 44+ (Over) or 43 or less (Under) in the 3rd quarter only.
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