When you bet on sports events, you’re making a wager that the result will be different than what’s actually happening. When you place a bet with licensed and legal operators, you’re protected by your state’s gambling laws. These laws ensure that games are fair, bets are honored and customers’ funds are safe. If you’re unsure about what’s legal in your area, be sure to check with your gaming regulatory body.

In recent years, the NFL has done a 180-degree turn on its stance on sports betting, and it is embracing it in many ways. The league has partnered with DraftKings, FanDuel and Caesars Entertainment to launch sports betting apps. It has also added odds and lines to its game coverage. And it is promoting its sports-betting partnerships on social media and in other promotional venues.

Unless you live in one of the few states where betting is legally permitted, the only way to place a bet on an NBA game is through an official betting site that’s licensed and regulated by your state. In addition to offering bets on the latest NBA action, these sites also have tools that can help you make smart wagers and avoid common betting pitfalls. They include educational guides on problem gambling and self-exclude options for a set period of time, as well as links to support services.