Definition of First Play

In sports betting, the term "First Play" refers to a prop market where bettors can wager on which player will record the first basket, first assist, or first rebound of the game. This means the very first occurrence of that stat in the game, regardless of team - not the first stat for an individual player.

For example, if you bet on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to score the first basket at odds of 7.00, and he hits the opening shot of the game, your bet would cash at seven times your stake. If Jalen Williams grabs the first rebound of the night and you had him at 12.00, that's a big return on what was likely a well-timed prediction. On the other hand, Myles Turner to record the first assist at 21.00 is a longshot, but those bets can pay huge if the opening possession plays out in his favor.

Because of the nature of the market, bettors often consider a mix of factors: who's likely to win the tip-off, which players typically initiate the offense, and which ones crash the glass early. A player like Isaiah Hartenstein might be a smart pick for first rebound, while a big like Chet Holmgren, who occasionally facilitates, could surprise with the first assist.

"First Play" bets are especially popular in Same Game Parlays (SGPs), where bettors combine high-odds props for big potential payouts. While risky, these wagers are decided almost immediately and can set the tone - and the adrenaline - for the rest of the game.