A snake draft is one of the most popular formats used in fantasy sports to assign players to teams. It’s named after its unique drafting pattern, which alternates the order of picks each round to create a fair selection process.
How a Snake Draft Works
In a snake draft, the order of picks reverses at the end of each round. For example:
- In the first round, Team 1 picks first, followed by Team 2, Team 3, and so on.
- In the second round, the order is reversed, with the last team from the first round picking first.
This “snaking” pattern ensures that teams drafting at the start of one round pick at the end of the next, balancing opportunities for all participants.
Benefits of the Snake Draft
- Fairness: Teams at the top of the order get first pick, but those at the end get back-to-back picks.
- Excitement: The alternating order keeps managers engaged throughout the draft.
- Strategy: Managers must balance their selections, considering the gap between their picks.
Tips for Success in a Snake Draft
- Know Your Position: Plan your strategy based on where you’re drafting in the order.
- Target Key Players: Identify must-have players and potential backups for each position.
- Pay Attention to Runs: Be aware of positional runs (e.g., multiple managers drafting quarterbacks) to avoid missing out.
- Stay Flexible: Adapt to unexpected picks and changing circumstances.
Snake Draft vs. Auction Draft
Unlike a snake draft, an auction draft allows managers to bid on players using a budget. While a snake draft is straightforward, an auction draft requires more complex strategies and budget management.
FAQs
Why is it called a snake draft?
The name comes from the back-and-forth “snaking” pattern of the draft order.
Is a snake draft fair for all participants?
Yes, the alternating order ensures fairness, as each team gets equal opportunities to draft top-tier and mid-tier players.
What sports commonly use snake drafts?
Snake drafts are popular in fantasy football, basketball, baseball, and hockey leagues.
How long does a snake draft typically take?
It depends on the number of teams and rounds but usually lasts between 1-2 hours.
Can the draft order change in a snake draft?
The initial draft order is usually determined randomly or based on league rules, but it follows the snaking pattern throughout.