Spread (Point Spread)
📖 GlossaryDefinition
The spread is a points handicap. The favorite must win by more than the spread to "cover." The underdog can lose by less than the spread and still win the bet.
Lakers -5.5 (-110)
Celtics +5.5 (-110)
If Lakers win 108-100 (by 8): Lakers -5.5 WINS ✅ (8 > 5.5) If Lakers win 105-102 (by 3): Celtics +5.5 WINS ✅ (3 < 5.5) [/example]
Key Numbers
In football: 3 and 7 are critical (field goal and touchdown margins) In basketball: No key numbers — scoring is too varied
Half-point spreads (like -5.5) eliminate the possibility of a push. Whole-number spreads (like -5) can push if the margin lands exactly on the number.