In sports betting, not all wagers are made on today’s game or tomorrow’s match. Futures bets offer a different kind of thrill—placing a bet now on an outcome that won’t be decided for weeks or even months. Whether it’s picking the next Super Bowl winner, the MVP of a league, or a team to make the playoffs, futures betting is all about playing the long game.
These wagers are especially popular among strategic bettors who follow sports seasons closely and want to lock in early odds that could shift dramatically over time. But are futures bets really worth it? Let’s break down how they work, when to place them, and what risks come with this long-term betting approach.
What Are Futures Bets?
Futures bets are wagers on events that take place in the future, typically beyond a single game. Common futures markets include:
- League champions (e.g., who will win the NBA Finals)
- Division or conference winners
- Season win totals (over/under for number of wins)
- Individual awards (like MVP or Rookie of the Year)
- Playoff appearances or relegation bets
Unlike a regular match bet, futures wagers can be placed before or during the season, and odds fluctuate as events unfold. The earlier you place your bet—especially before the season begins—the higher your potential return if you make the right call.
Pros of Futures Betting
1. Bigger Potential Payouts
Futures bets usually offer higher odds, especially if you back a team or player before they gain momentum. A team listed at +1000 to win a championship early on could drop to +300 midseason, making early wagers much more profitable.
2. Long-Term Engagement
Futures keep you invested over an entire season or tournament. Instead of focusing on daily games, you get to follow storylines, trends, and performances that stretch across months.
3. Hedge Opportunities
As the season progresses, you can hedge your futures bet by wagering on other outcomes. For example, if your chosen team reaches the final, you could bet on the opponent to ensure a profit regardless of the result.
4. Strategic Edge for Informed Bettors
Fans who follow rosters, offseason moves, and injury reports can spot undervalued opportunities in preseason futures markets, where odds aren’t always accurate.
Cons and Risks of Futures Bets
1. Tied-Up Funds
Futures bets require you to lock up your bankroll for long periods. If you place a bet in August for a result in February, that money is unavailable for other bets during that time.
2. Higher Uncertainty
Long-term outcomes are more unpredictable. Injuries, trades, suspensions, or unexpected slumps can ruin even the best-laid plans.
3. Reduced Flexibility
Once a futures bet is placed, it’s often non-refundable and non-adjustable. Unlike live or daily betting, you can’t cash out early unless the platform supports partial payouts.
4. Limited Live Action
Futures betting doesn’t offer the fast-paced action of in-game or daily markets. If you thrive on instant results, this slower style may not be appealing.
When Futures Bets Make Sense
Futures betting can be a great strategy if:
- You spot value early, before sportsbooks adjust the odds
- You have deep knowledge of a league or sport’s structure
- You want to diversify your betting with long-term plays
- You’re prepared to commit part of your bankroll to a single outcome
For example, betting on a dark horse team with strong offseason changes can yield huge returns if they exceed expectations. Similarly, wagering on a young player for Rookie of the Year can be rewarding if you’ve followed their preseason performance.
How to Approach Futures Bets Wisely
To get the most from futures bets:
- Shop for odds across multiple sportsbooks to find the best value
- Track changes in team rosters, injuries, and schedules
- Avoid emotional betting—don’t back your favorite team without solid reasoning
- Stagger your bets by placing smaller amounts on multiple outcomes instead of going all-in on one pick
- Consider hedging if your futures pick is doing well and you want to lock in profit later in the season
Real-World Example
Let’s say you bet $100 on a team at +1200 to win the championship. If they win, you get $1,200 plus your original stake. But midseason, the same team’s odds drop to +300 due to strong performance. If you had waited, your return would have been just $300. That’s the risk-reward balance of futures—early bets offer better odds, but carry more uncertainty.
Futures bets offer a unique angle in sports betting, blending strategy, patience, and prediction. While they’re not suited for every player, they can deliver strong returns and long-term excitement when used correctly.
If you have deep insights into a team’s potential or spot value before the public catches on, futures betting might be well worth the wait. Just remember to balance your risk, manage your bankroll, and stay informed throughout the season for the best chance of success.