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Sharp
sports bettingA professional or highly skilled bettor who uses mathematical analysis and data to find edges.
Key Takeaways
- 1Sharps are professional bettors who move lines
- 2They focus on math and CLV, not gut feelings
- 3Sportsbooks adjust lines based on sharp action
- 4The opposite of a sharp is a square (recreational bettor)
What is a Sharp?
A sharp (also called a "wise guy") is a professional or highly skilled bettor who uses mathematical analysis, data modeling, and disciplined bankroll management to find and exploit edges in the betting market.
Sharp vs. Square
| Trait | Sharp | Square (Recreational) |
|---|---|---|
| Decision basis | Math & data | Gut feelings & media |
| Bankroll management | Strict (1-3% per bet) | Inconsistent |
| Bet timing | Early (to capture value) | Late (close to game time) |
| Favorites vs. dogs | Follows value | Prefers favorites |
| Emotional betting | Never | Common |
| Track record | 1,000+ bet sample | Remembers winners |
How Sharps Operate
- Build models — Statistical models that estimate true probabilities
- Compare to market — Find discrepancies between their model and the odds
- Bet early — Capture value before lines move
- Track everything — CLV, ROI, and performance by sport/bet type
- Accept variance — A losing week means nothing over 1,000+ bets
How Sportsbooks Treat Sharps
Sportsbooks respect sharp action because it helps them set accurate lines. But they also limit sharp bettors' accounts because consistent winners cost them money. Getting limited is actually a badge of honor — it means the book considers you sharp.