Live betting on ESPN Bet is wagering on a game after it has already started, rather than only before kickoff, tipoff, or the first pitch. The main idea is that the odds change in real time as the action unfolds. That means a team that starts slowly may become more attractive to bet on later, while a team that takes an early lead may see its odds shorten.
On ESPN Bet, live betting can include many of the same markets that are available pregame, such as moneylines, point spreads, totals, and sometimes player or team specific props, depending on the event. Because the odds move quickly, the sportsbook is constantly adjusting prices based on what is happening in the game, including score, time remaining, possession, injuries, fouls, and other game flow factors.
This type of betting is often appealing to people who want to react to what they are watching instead of predicting the outcome before the event begins. It can also create more opportunities during a game, since new bets may open and close as the odds update.
One important point is that live betting usually requires quick decisions. Markets may be suspended briefly during big plays, reviews, or scoring changes. It is also wise to check the current rules for the specific event, since some live markets can differ by sport or state. If you are viewing ESPN Bet on a current web page, the help or policy information on that page may show the most relevant details for your location.