WNBA First Basket Scorers & Picks: Wings vs. Valkyries (Friday)
The WNBA has reached the playoffs, and now we're working to finish the season strong and in the green. WNBA first basket scorers are one of the best ways to get in on the action, since you don't have to sweat the entire game.
Of course, these are high-variance bets with long odds, similar to first touchdown scorer bets in football, but that is why the odds offer a nice payout when you get one right. With a large sample size, the risk is rewarded. Remember to shop around as odds vary widely across sportsbooks. Remember, these bets are on the first point scorer, so free throws count as well.
We hit a +500 Gabby Williams first bucket ticket, so we’re back in the green. It has been quite the up-and-down season, but that's what happens when you bet such long-odds plays. Here are the best WNBA first basket picks for Friday, October 2nd.
Go premium to view top prop bets based on Cover Probability, Expected Value & Star Rating >>
Friday's Best WNBA First Basket Scorers & Bets
Last Time: 1-1 | Season: 10-60 (+4.15 units) | Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook
Dallas Wings vs. Golden State Valkyries
After an incredible Game 2, in which the Wings managed an overtime victory, Golden State is back at home to host the win-or-go-home game. The Valkyries are 8.5-point favorites and deservedly so. Their defense leads the league, and they've secured seven of the last 10 first baskets.
Gabby Williams was the go-to last time, and it went well; it's hard to go against her again. Kiah Stokes will likely take the tip again, but Maddy Siegrist countered for Dallas last time out. Awak Kuier's status is up in the air, which could change who takes the tip, and she is listed as probable with her wrist injury. Kuier versus Stokes is 1-1 lifetime on the opening tip.
Dallas has done an odd job securing the ball early in games. They've only attempted 40% of the first shots this season, and Kuier does take a step back on the road, with just a 30% tip-off win rate. I'm going back to what worked before. Williams has taken over 17% of Golden State’s first-shot attempts. They need to get her going early to secure this win, and the odds are the same as last time.
My other choice here would be Kayla Thornton; her odds are longer, and she ranks second on the team in first-shot attempts.
Pick: Gabby Williams (+500)