Home Total (Incl OT) Over 85.5 In Basketball Sports Betting Explained

“Home Total (Incl OT) Over 85.5” is a popular basketball betting market where you predict that the home team will score 86 points or more, including any points scored in overtime.

If the home team scores exactly 85 points or fewer, the bet loses.

What Does “Incl OT” Mean?

“Incl OT” means Including Overtime.

This means:

• Points scored during overtime count toward the final total.
• Even if the game ends tied in regular time, overtime points can help your bet win.

How This Bet Works

You are betting only on the home team’s total points, not the entire match total.

Example 1 – Bet Wins

Match:

• Los Angeles Lakers vs Chicago Bulls

Bet:

• Home Total (Incl OT) Over 85.5

Final Score:

• Lakers 92 – 88 Bulls

Result:

• The Lakers scored 92 points.
• 92 is above 85.5.
• Your bet wins.

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Example 2 – Bet Loses

Match:

• Boston Celtics vs Miami Heat

Bet:

• Home Total (Incl OT) Over 85.5

Final Score:

• Celtics 84 – 79 Heat

Result:

• Celtics scored only 84 points.
• 84 is below 85.5.
• Your bet loses.

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Example 3 – Overtime Helps the Bet Win

Match:

• Golden State Warriors vs Phoenix Suns

End of Regular Time:

• Warriors 82 – 82 Suns

After Overtime:

• Warriors 90 – 87 Suns

Result:

• Warriors finished with 90 points.
• Overtime points counted.
• Your bet wins.

Why Bettors Like This Market

This market is popular because:

• You only focus on one team’s scoring ability.
• Strong home teams often score heavily.
• Overtime gives extra chances to win.

Best Situations To Bet Over 85.5

Consider this bet when:

• The home team has strong attacking players.
• The opponent has weak defense.
• Recent games show high scoring trends.
• Fast-paced teams are playing.
• Key scorers are available and injury-free.

When To Avoid It

Avoid this market when:

• The home team struggles offensively.
• Important players are injured.
• The opponent has elite defense.
• Low-tempo defensive basketball is expected.

Expert Betting Tips

1. Check Recent Scoring Form

Look at the home team’s last 5–10 games. If they regularly score above 90 points, this market becomes attractive.

2. Study Head-to-Head Matches

Some teams consistently score highly against certain opponents.

3. Watch Injury News

Missing star players can greatly reduce scoring potential.

4. Consider Game Pace

Fast-paced games usually produce more points.

5. Compare League Averages

In leagues like the National Basketball Association, scoring above 85 points is very common.

Advantages of This Bet

• Easier than predicting the match winner.
• Overtime can save the bet.
• Great for high-scoring basketball leagues.

Risks of This Bet

• Strong defenses can ruin scoring chances.
• Blowout games may reduce late-game intensity.
• Poor shooting nights can affect totals.