First basket predictions and picks: Top NBA bet for Saturday has +1500 odds [11/1/2025]

Our NBA first basket predictions for Saturday, November 1, 2025, have landed—with Collin Sexton of the Hornets the most likely player to score the first basket according to the latest Dimers Pro simulation data.

Saturday's first basket predictions come from our NBA first basket odds and player projections, which highlight not only first basket probabilities, but also projected points, rebounds, assists and more for every player on today's basketball slate.

Who will score the first basket tonight? [November 1, 2025]

According to our data-driven analysis, the most likely NBA player to score the first basket in Saturday's clash is Collin Sexton, with a probability of 13.9%.

Player (Team)	FB Probability
Collin Sexton (Hornets)	13.9%
LaMelo Ball (Hornets)	13.9%
Daniel Gafford (Mavericks)	13.7%
Cade Cunningham (Pistons)	13.5%
Ausar Thompson (Pistons)	11.8%
Miles Bridges (Hornets)	11.3%
Klay Thompson (Mavericks)	10.9%
Jalen Duren (Pistons)	9.8%
Max Christie (Mavericks)	9.4%
P.J. Washington (Mavericks)	9.4%

Following Sexton closely are LaMelo Ball at 13.9% and Daniel Gafford at 13.7%.

Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson are among those in the top 10, with the full list of first basket projections for Saturday available via today’s NBA player projections.

Best NBA first basket picks [11/1/2025]

Having simulated the result of today's NBA matchups 10,000 times each, our predictive model has discovered the best NBA first basket bet for you to make on Saturday.

Max Christie first basket scorer

• Odds: +1500
• Edge: 3.2%
• Probability: 9.4%
• Matchup: Mavericks vs. Pistons (10:00PM ET)

Our model has identified the best NBA first basket bet for today's NBA slate in the game between the Mavericks and Pistons. The bet is on Max Christie (DAL) at odds of +1500 with FanDuel Sportsbook, with an edge of 3.2% according to our analysis.

NBA schedule for today [11/1/2025]

• Mavericks vs. Pistons (10:00PM ET, Saturday)

Conclusion

For November 1, 2025, our NBA first basket predictions feature star players including Collin Sexton, LaMelo Ball and Daniel Gafford—all of whom are among the top projected chances to open the scoring in today’s games. But when it comes to betting value, it’s Max Christie who emerges as the top pick, producing a calculated 3.2% edge at +1500 odds.

These projections are the result of 10,000 simulations, giving you a reliable foundation for smarter prop betting. Always wager with care—help is available at 1-800-GAMBLER if you or someone close to you needs support.

For more insight, check out our NBA player props and NBA best bets. Stay in the loop with our up-to-the-minute NBA betting trends, NBA news, and current NBA title odds.

This article was partially generated using automated data and AI tools, with all content reviewed and finalized by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and quality.

Note: This article may include affiliate links. Learn how we review products and services.