SB 100bb Defense
SB 100bb Defense
The strategy and range with which the small blind defends against a raise when both players have 100 big blind effective stacks.
Overview
SB 100bb Defense refers to the decisions made by the small blind when facing an open-raise (typically from late position) in a 100 big blind effective stack cash game. This situation is critical because the small blind is out of position post-flop and must balance between protecting their blind and avoiding costly mistakes. The term is most commonly used in no-limit hold'em, particularly in online 6-max or full-ring games where 100bb is the standard stack depth.
Key Considerations
Position Disadvantage
The small blind acts first on all post-flop streets, giving the raiser a significant informational advantage. This forces the SB to defend more tightly than the big blind, and to rely more on 3-betting than flat calling. With 100bb stacks, the SB can employ a mix of calls and raises, but calling is riskier due to the positional deficit.
Typical Ranges
A standard SB defense range against a button open (e.g., 2.5x) might include:
- 3-bet for value: JJ+, AK, AQ, KQ (suited), AJs+ (about 5-7% of hands).
- 3-bet as bluff: Axs, small suited connectors (54s-T9s), some small pairs (66-88).
- Flat call: Medium to strong hands that play well multiway but are not strong enough to 3-bet for value, such as 99-TT, ATs, KJs, QJs, JTs, and some suited aces (e.g., A2s-A5s).
Stack Depth Effects
At 100bb, the SB has enough implied odds to play speculative hands but must be aware of reverse implied odds. Suited connectors and small pairs lose value if the raiser has a strong range and will continue aggressively. The SB's defense range typically shrinks as the raiser's position improves (e.g., UTG open vs. button open).
Example Scenarios
- Button (BU) opens to 2.5bb, SB with 100bb. A reasonable defense might be to 3-bet about 12-15% of hands and flat call about 8-10%, for a total defend rate of 20-25%. This avoids over-folding (which the BU can exploit) while mitigating positional disadvantage.
- Facing a large open (e.g., 3.5bb): The SB should defend less, as the pot odds worsen and the raiser's range is presumably stronger.
Common Mistakes
- Over-calling: Flatting too many hands like KJo or QTo, which are dominated out of position.
- Under-3-betting: Failing to 3-bet enough bluffs, allowing the raiser to profit by opening wide.
- Ignoring opponent tendencies: Against a tight raiser, the SB should fold more; against a loose raiser, 3-bet more frequently.
Conclusion
SB 100bb Defense is a nuanced skill that requires adjusting ranges based on opponent, position, and stack depth. While GTO solutions suggest a balanced approach with frequent 3-bets and selective calls, live adjustments are necessary for profitability. Mastering this spot is essential for any serious cash game player.