Mastering Value Betting: A Set of Eights on the Button in Microstakes NLHE
When you’re playing at microstakes in No-Limit Hold'em (NLHE) , extracting maximum value from strong hands is essential to building your bankroll. In today’s post, we’ll break down a 6-max Zoom hand where we (the hero) hold 8♥ 8♦ on the Button against a villain who raises from early position (UTG). In this hand, we’ll focus on how to best maximize value from a set of eights , and understand the thought process from preflop to river . Preflop: Calling with Pocket Eights on the Button Hero’s Hand : 8♥ 8♦ Villain’s Raise : UTG raises to 2.5bb Villain’s Estimated Range : 55+, ATs+, KTs+, QTs+, J9s+, T8s+, 97s+, 87s, 76s, AJo+, KQo Stack Sizes : Both players have 100bb When the villain opens from early position (UTG) , we can estimate their range based on the given hands: strong pocket pairs (55+), suited connectors (ATs+, J9s+, T8s+), and offsuit broadways (AJo+, KQo). This range is pretty standard for an UTG open. Our hand, 8♥ 8♦ , is a solid pocket pair, and the best way to ...