Sharp
Also known as: wiseguy, sharp money
A professional or near-professional bettor whose money the book respects. Sharps move lines.
A sharp is a sophisticated bettor; professional or near-pro; whose betting volume and accuracy the sportsbook takes seriously.
Sharp characteristics:
- Bets based on +EV, not loyalty or feel
- Beats the closing line consistently
- Often bet at non-public times (early lines, late steam moves)
- Get limited or banned at recreational books
“Sharp money is on the dog” means professional bettors are backing the underdog; usually causing line movement against ticket count.
Opposite of public/square/recreational.