The month of October brings with it the exciting return of basketball. The NBA, the most prestigious league in the world, starts its season on October 22nd and the NBB, the Brazilian championship, starts this Saturday (12th). Betfair, the bookmaker, carefully analyzed the favorites for both basketball competitions.
In the NBA, the Boston Celtics emerge as the team to beat. Led by the dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the defending champions are seeking their 19th title. Betfair gives the Celtics a 19% chance of winning the championship.
However, the competition promises to be fierce. Oklahoma City Thunder and New York Knicks are close behind, each with a 10% probability. Then, the Minnesota Timberwolves and Philadelphia 76ers appear tied, both with an 8% chance.
NBA bets and odds
For better visualization, we present a table with the NBA title odds, according to Betfair:
| Team | Probability |
|---|---|
| Boston Celtics | 19% |
| Oklahoma City Thunder | 10% |
| New York Knicks | 10% |
| Minnesota Timberwolves | 8% |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 8% |
| Dallas Mavericks | 7% |
| Denver Nuggets | 7% |
| Milwaukee Bucks | 6% |
| Phoenix Suns | 4% |
| Los Angeles Lakers | 2% |
| Cleveland Cavaliers | 2% |
| Memphis Grizzlies | 2% |
| Orlando Magic | 2% |
| Golden State Warriors | 2% |
| New Orleans Pelicans | 2% |
| Miami Heat | 2% |
| Indiana Pacers | 2% |
| Sacramento Kings | 1% |
| Houston Rockets | 1% |
| San Antonio Spurs | 1% |
| Los Angeles Clippers | 1% |
| Other teams | 1% each |
In the dispute for the MVP award, two names stand out. Nikola Jokic, current MVP and three-time winner of the award, shares favoritism with Luka Doncic. Both have an 18% chance of winning the league’s most coveted individual title.
Additionally, Betfair offers bets for the Rookie of the Year award. Surprisingly, Memphis Grizzlies first-round pick Zach Edey leads the odds at 14%.
On the other hand, Bronny James, LeBron James’ son, appears with less than a 1% chance, despite the great expectations surrounding his debut.
National basketball odds
Turning to the national scene, the NBB also promises strong emotions. Sesi Franca, current three-time champion, seeks to extend its hegemony. Despite having undergone a cast overhaul, the team kept Lucas Dias, last season’s MVP.
Betfair gives Sesi Franca an impressive 41% chance of winning the fourth championship. However, Flamengo appears as the main competitor, with a 31% chance of winning the title.
The Rio team has Jhonatan, a player considered an amulet in the Brazilian league, having been champion in the last six editions of the tournament.
For a clearer view, we present the title odds at NBB:
| Team | Probability |
|---|---|
| Sesi SP/Franca | 41% |
| Flamengo | 31% |
| Minas Tennis Club | 12% |
| Bauru Basket | 3% |
| Vasco da Gama | 3% |
| São Paulo | 2% |
| Paulistano | 1% |
| Unifacisa | 1% |
| Fortaleza Basquete Cearense | 1% |
| Corinthians | 1% |
| Other teams | <1% cada |
In short, both the NBA and the NBB promise electrifying seasons. Betfair’s projections reflect the balance and competitiveness expected in both leagues, making each game a unique opportunity for fans and bettors.
