NBA Bans Certain Bets Amid Betting Scandals

The NBA is implementing restrictions on certain types of bets offered by sportsbooks, including same-player parlays involving multiple statistical unders. This move comes in response to recent scandals that have drawn player involvement into sports betting controversies.

The league's decision aims to address wagers that have been central to gambling scandals, such as those involving Jontay Porter and Terry Rozier. Porter admitted to intentionally leaving games early to allow gamblers to win bets based on his performance unders. In one instance, a bettor placed an $80,000 parlay on six of Porter's statistical unders, with a potential payout of approximately $1.1 million. Porter exited that game after just three minutes of play.

Similarly, federal prosecutors allege a scheme involving Terry Rozier in March 2023, when he left a Charlotte Hornets game after approximately nine minutes. Rozier has pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

In addition to same-player unders, the NBA is also banning bets on opening tip winners and players missing specific shots. Wagers on unders involving players projected to play fewer than 12 minutes are also being removed.

The league stated its objective is to eliminate problematic wagers without driving bettors to illegal sportsbooks. DraftKings confirmed that the NBA's guidance aligns with many of their existing market restrictions and that they support the league's efforts to maintain game integrity. FanDuel echoed this sentiment, emphasizing its commitment to a regulated market and rooting out abuses.

To bolster its efforts, the NBA is enhancing its AI-powered betting surveillance system. The league has also enlisted former NFL player and FBI agent Charles Tillman to educate players on gambling rules and is introducing additional protections for players against harassment and online abuse. A third-party service will assist players in removing abusive social media messages, and a hotline has been established to report threats.