Whether you want to prove that you would be an awesome GM, or you’re just in it for the money, here’s how to improve your odds of winning a fantasy basketball league.

Step 1: Do your research

Read all the professional and amateur basketball analysis you can, and keep an eye out for promising under-the-radar sleeper picks.

Step 2: Name your team

Come up with a witty team name, ideally a play on words related to a disgraced sports figure, like “Shawn Kemp’s Day Care.”

Step 3: Draft well

Draft your players carefully. NBA rosters are smaller than those of any other pro sports league, meaning fewer players left over as free agents after a fantasy draft. A strong roster is essential to your success.

Step 4: Use your head

Use your head, not your heart. Don’t reject great fantasy players just because you hate them in real life, and avoid drafting sentimental favorites if that’s all they have going for them. There are no points for “loyalty” in basketball pools.

Step 5: Stay informed

Watch as many games as you can, and use your computer to stay updated on injury reports.

Step 6: Be bold

Be bold. Fortune favors the brave, so don’t back away from a blockbuster trade. Very seldom do you win with the exact team you drafted, so be prepared to make well-considered transactions.

Step 7: Play it cool

If someone instigates a trade, never accept it outright; try to work in an extra piece for yourself.

Step 8: Talk trash

Don’t abandon the abuse on draft day—keep up the chatter all season! And don’t worry about offending friends. If they know what they’re doing, they’ll be busting your chops, too.

Step 9: Be lucky

Be lucky. No matter how smart you play or how much effort you put into managing your team, there’s no safeguard against injuries—or players simply having an off year.