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Player Props
Quick Summary
Player props are bets based on individual player performance—such as points, touchdowns, assists, or home runs. This article explains how player prop bets work, what markets are most common, and how they differ across sports.
What Are Player Props?
A player prop (short for “proposition bet”) is a wager on how a specific player will perform during a game. Unlike standard bets on which team will win, player props focus on individual achievements.
Examples include:
- Will a quarterback throw for over 250 yards?
- Will a basketball player score 25+ points?
- Will a striker score the first goal?
These bets can be placed pre-game or live as the action unfolds.
Common Types of Player Props
Over/Under:
Bet on whether a player’s stat will go over or under a sportsbook’s line.
Example: Over/Under 25.5 points scored.
Yes/No:
Bet on whether a player will achieve a milestone.
Example: Will Player X score a touchdown? Yes or No.
Combination Bets:
A bundled prop based on multiple stats.
Example: Player to record 10+ points, 5+ rebounds, and 3+ assists.
Popular Player Prop Markets by Sport
Basketball:
Common props include points, assists, rebounds, 3-pointers made, double-doubles, and triple-doubles.
Example: Paige Bueckers to score 10+ points at –330, Kayla Thornton at –145.
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Football:
Props often include passing/rushing/receiving yards, touchdowns scored, or interceptions.
Example: Saquon Barkley to score a TD at +360, Jalen Hurts First TD Scorer at +500.
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Baseball:
Bettors can wager on home runs, hits, strikeouts, stolen bases, and more.
Example: Jose Ramirez to hit 1+ home run at +300, Bo Naylor at +390.
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Hockey:
Includes goals, assists, shots on goal, penalty minutes, or season-long awards.
Example: Connor McDavid to win the Art Ross Trophy at +200.
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Soccer:
Common props include anytime goalscorer, first goalscorer, assists, or cards received.
Example: Marie-Antoinette Katoto First Goalscorer at +475, Anytime Scorer at +150.
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What Influences Player Prop Lines?
- Player performance history: Scoring averages, usage, and recent form
- Opponent tendencies: Defensive strengths or weaknesses against certain roles
- Game environment: Tempo, location, projected scoreline, injuries
- Situational context: Home vs. away splits, weather, or pace of play
Books adjust player props in real time based on these inputs, but bettors can spot value by comparing projections to posted lines.
Strategies and Risks
Research-based strategies:
- Track matchups and player form
- Follow injury updates and lineup news
- Use data tools or models to benchmark prop lines
Risks to watch:
- Player performance variance
- Lower liquidity in niche markets
- Legal restrictions (e.g., college player props in some states)
- Poor bankroll discipline if chasing long shots
Final Thoughts
Player props give you the ability to bet on individual talent rather than team outcomes. They’re popular across nearly all sports and allow bettors to lean into stat-based analysis, fantasy data, or matchup edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do prop bets pay out?
Based on the odds at placement. A successful Yes/No or Over/Under bet pays out if the selected outcome occurs.
Can I parlay player props?
Yes, many sportsbooks allow prop parlays, especially same-game parlays. Keep in mind the risk multiplies.
Do prop bets have different odds from regular bets?
Yes. Because of performance variability, prop odds differ and are adjusted based on matchup and player history.
Can I bet on props before a game?
Yes. Most player props are available pre-game, though odds may move closer to kickoff or tip-off.
Are player props available for all sports?
They’re common in major sports but also offered in tennis, golf, soccer, and even esports.
What’s the difference between player and team props?
Player props target individual performance. Team props focus on outcomes like total team points or touchdowns.
Learn More
For more articles on market structure, statistical modeling, and how sportsbooks set prop lines, visit The Advantage, your source for data-first betting education.