1st Quarter – Race to 10 Points in Basketball Betting Explained
The “1st Quarter – Race to 10 Points” market in basketball betting is a fast-paced prop bet where you wager on which team will score 10 points first in the first quarter of the game. It focuses purely on early momentum, not the overall result of the quarter or game.
How It Works
In this market, sportsbooks present two main options:
- Team A to reach 10 points first
- Team B to reach 10 points first
The bet is settled as soon as one team hits 10 points, regardless of the time remaining in the 1st quarter or the final score of the quarter/game.
If neither team reaches 10 points before the quarter ends (rare in basketball), the market is usually void or paid based on the leading team, depending on the bookmaker’s rules.
Example Scenario
Match:
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors
Market: 1st Quarter – Race to 10 Points
- Lakers: 1.80 odds
- Warriors: 2.00 odds
Example 1:
- The Lakers start hot with quick baskets from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, reaching 10 points first.
- If you bet on the Lakers → You win.
- If you bet on the Warriors → You lose.
Example 2:
- The Warriors start with fast 3-pointers from Stephen Curry, reaching 10 points first.
- Bet on Warriors wins.
- Bet on Lakers loses.
Factors to Consider When Betting
1. Starting Lineup
Teams with explosive starters (e.g., Curry, Doncic, Tatum) tend to score fast. Check who’s starting — some teams rest their stars early in the first quarter.
2. Pace of Play
Teams that play a fast tempo (like the Sacramento Kings or Indiana Pacers) reach 10 points quicker than defensive-minded teams (like the Miami Heat).
3. Home Court Advantage
Home teams often start stronger due to crowd energy and comfort — making them good picks in “race to 10” bets.
4. Recent Form / Fatigue
If a team played back-to-back games, they may start slower. Rested teams often come out firing.
5. Head-to-Head Matchups
Some teams struggle against specific defenses. Reviewing their past 1st-quarter performances can reveal patterns.
Example Breakdown
| Game | Team A | Team B | Result | Winner (Race to 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Celtics vs. 76ers | Celtics start with 2 quick 3s | 76ers slow start | Celtics reach 10 first | Celtics |
| Nuggets vs. Suns | Suns start fast with Booker | Jokic scores late | Suns reach 10 first | Suns |
Betting Tips
- Check 1st Quarter Stats:
Look at average points in first quarters for both teams. Teams averaging 28+ points in Q1 are strong race-to-10 contenders. - Avoid Defensive Matchups:
Games involving strong defenses (like Heat vs. Timberwolves) may start slow — avoid them for this market. - Watch Early Possessions:
Live bettors can take advantage if one team starts with poor shooting; some bookmakers offer live “race to 10” odds. - Look for Consistency:
Teams like the Denver Nuggets or Boston Celtics often start games well — good options for consistent early-scoring performance. - Bankroll Management:
Because this market is short and volatile, bet small amounts. It’s fun but unpredictable.
Example Betting Tip in Action
Match: Golden State Warriors vs. Dallas Mavericks
- Warriors average 31.5 points in 1st quarter
- Mavericks average 26.2 points in 1st quarter
Pick: Warriors to reach 10 points first
Reason: Warriors play fast, shoot early, and often dominate early possessions.
Summary
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Name | 1st Quarter – Race to 10 Points |
| What You Bet On | Which team reaches 10 points first |
| Settled When | One team scores 10 points |
| Ideal For | Fast-paced teams, early-game bettors |
| Best Strategy | Analyze 1st quarter averages, pace, and lineup strength |