The prevalence of sports betting creates unique challenges for college athletics that threaten the well-being of student-athletes, the integrity of NCAA competition and the overall reputation of the sport. The NCAA is advocating for changes in state laws and regulations to better protect students-athletes from the effects of problem gambling, educate students-athletes on responsible gambling habits and enhance integrity monitoring programs.

In a September 2023 NCAA survey of campus compliance directors, 27% of autonomy schools reported having dealt with a sports betting issue. The NCAA is also concerned about the risk of athletes or their associates being subject to targeted harassment by bettors. Moreover, the proliferation of billion-dollar advertising campaigns can entice young people to engage in irresponsible betting, which increases the likelihood that they will develop problem gambling habits.

Fortunately, many states moved quickly after the Supreme Court’s PASPA ruling. Ohio lawmakers passed a bill in December and Gov. Mike DeWine signed it. The first retail sportsbooks opened in November 2018 and online sportsbooks launched in May 2019. DraftKings, FanDuel, SugarHouse and BetRivers were among the early players.

It’s important to note that sports betting is legal in all US states except California, which requires a ballot initiative. However, even if California voters approve it, it could be 2024 before sports betting is available there. In the meantime, there are several social sportsbooks, such as Fliff Sportsbook, where users can place bets on upcoming fights. Those bets are made on the basis of live action, and each bet includes various prop bet options for the fighters.