SB Float

Overview

A SB Float refers to a specific floating play executed from the small blind position. Floating is a technique where a player calls a bet on the flop with a weak or drawing hand, planning to take the pot away on the turn or river if the opponent shows weakness. The SB Float is notable because the small blind is the worst position postflop (acting first on all remaining streets), making the float particularly risky but potentially rewarding against predictable opponents.

When to Use SB Float

The SB Float is typically employed against opponents who continuation bet (c-bet) frequently on the flop but then check or fold to aggression on the turn. Common scenarios include:

• Facing a preflop raiser who is likely to c-bet many flops but gives up on the turn when they miss.
• Board textures that are unlikely to improve the opponent's range, such as low, disconnected boards (e.g., 7-3-2 rainbow).
• Having a hand with some potential to improve, like a gutshot or overcards, providing backup equity.

Execution

1. Preflop: The small blind calls a raise (or defends the blind) with a speculative hand or even a weak holding.
2. Flop: The big blind or preflop aggressor bets. The SB calls with a hand that is unlikely to be best now but can represent strength later. The call must be small relative to stack sizes, and the float should only work if the opponent will check the turn often.
3. Turn: If the opponent checks, the SB bets to represent a made hand. The bet size is typically 50-75% of the pot, applying pressure.
4. River: If called on the turn and the river brings a scare card, the SB may fire a second barrel. However, this is less common due to the risk of being caught.

Risks and Considerations

The SB Float is a high-variance play because the small blind is out of position. Without the initiative, the SB must rely on opponent tendencies. Key risks include:

• Being re-floated: A savvy opponent may call the turn bet and then bet the river, forcing the SB to fold.
• Turn check-raise: Some opponents will check-raise the turn, putting the SB in a tough spot.
• Multiple opponents: Floating is less effective in multiway pots because the chance of someone having a real hand increases.
• Stack sizes: The float works best with deep stacks (100BB+), as shallow stacks reduce fold equity.

Example

In a $1/$2 cash game, the button raises to $8, the SB calls with 8♠7♠, and the BB folds. Flop: A♣6♦2♥. Button c-bets $12. The SB calls with a gutshot (7) and backdoor flush draw. Turn: 4♠. Button checks. The SB bets $30, representing an ace. The button folds, and the SB takes the pot.

Conclusion

SB Float is an advanced tactic best used sparingly against predictable opponents who fold too often on the turn. Its success hinges on accurate reads and disciplined play. While it can be profitable, it is not recommended for beginners due to the positional disadvantage and high variance.