The NBA and WNBA are set to launch a responsible gaming campaign that directs fans to educational resources on the financial risks of putting money on sports outcomes.
The initiative comes as the season prepares to tip off. The NBA is reminding fans that betting on basketball at sportsbooks and trading on prediction markets involves risk and that it should be done for entertainment, not to generate income.
The NBA and WNBA are collaborating with the National Council on Problem Gambling for the responsible gaming initiative. The campaign will run on social and linear platforms this fall. The initiative emphasizes that no matter how much one knows about basketball, their money is at stake.
Scott Kaufman-Ross, NBA Head of Media Distribution and Partnerships, said the campaign responds to changes in the way fans interact with sports, and he added that the league wants fans to understand the risks before they wager.
“As the ways people engage with sports continue to evolve, it is important that fans understand the risks associated with putting money on sports outcomes,” Kaufman-Ross said in the release. “[We] want to help fans make informed decisions, understand the risk and, if they choose to bet, trade or anything similar, that they do so responsibly.”
Colie Edison, Chief Growth Officer of the WNBA, said informed decision-making sits at the center of the campaign.
“We can reach more fans with practical guidance on understanding financial risk, setting limits and recognizing when and where to find support,” Edison said.
The campaign connects fans with responsible gaming education, along with resources that help them recognize problems and learn how to seek help. These materials include references to gambling helplines.
Derek Longmeier, President of the Board of Directors of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), added that public awareness plays a part in the prevention of gambling harm.
Additional details, including the campaign’s creative and debut timing, will be announced at a later date.
Fans can visit ResponsiblePlay.org for responsible gaming information and resources. Anyone concerned about their own gambling or that of a loved one can call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET for free, confidential support, available 24/7.