The Gryphon Gazette

By Sawyer G. ‘26

For over a century, American sports have been strictly separate from gambling to protect the integrity of competition and prevent scandal. However, since the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision to legalize sports betting, major U.S. leagues have increasingly faced significant gambling-related issues, particularly involving athletes, who are among the most restricted from betting. Recent events have shown the extent of the problem, with professional and collegiate athletes being implicated in multiple scandals. The NBA and NFL have taken action against such activities, where concerns have escalated to the point that NCAA president Charlie Baker has called for a national ban on bets involving individual college athletes’ performances.

Scandals are not new to sports; historical incidents like the 1919 Black Sox scandal and Pete Rose’s lifetime ban have marred sports’ reputation. Yet, the legalization and mainstream acceptance of betting have brought these issues back to the forefront. The visibility of betting odds and gambling ads during broadcasts and in arenas underscores the new reality: betting is now part of the fan experience, intended to keep viewers engaged. However, this integration has raised concerns about the potential manipulation of games and the effect on sports’ credibility. Recent incidents, such as MLB’s star player Shohei Ohtani getting caught in a betting scandal and numerous college athletes investigated for betting, highlight the ongoing risks. These concerns are exacerbated by the personal attacks some athletes face from disgruntled gamblers, showing the pressure and harassment linked to sports betting.

As sports leagues adapt to this new era, they face the challenge of balancing the lucrative opportunities from betting with the need to maintain fair play. The involvement of high-profile athletes as betting ambassadors, and the integration of betting into live broadcasts illustrate the deep ties between sports and gambling industries. Yet, the potential for conflict remains, as evidenced by ongoing legal issues and the push for legislative changes to protect athletes from the pressures of gambling. The NFL and other leagues are working to educate their personnel on the rules, even as they navigate the complexities of this new landscape.