NBA Implements New Betting Restrictions Amid Scandals
The NBA has mandated its sportsbook partners to restrict specific types of bets in light of recent betting scandals. This directive was communicated through a memo to authorized gaming operators, including major platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel.
The league, which estimates that its partners represent about 99% of the U.S. betting market, has the authority to regulate the types of bets offered. NBA executive vice president Scott Kaufman-Ross emphasized the need to balance the removal of problematic bets while preventing a shift to illegal betting activities.
Recent scandals have highlighted issues with 'under' prop bets, where wagers are placed on players not meeting certain statistical benchmarks. Notably, former player Jontay Porter has been banned from the NBA for admitting to manipulating game outcomes for bettors, while Terry Rozier faces allegations related to similar actions, which he denies. The new restrictions will build on previous limitations that already include bans on betting involving 10-day or two-way players and certain prop bets.
