NBA Reviews Vulnerable Bets Amid Scandal, Limits Imminent

URGENT UPDATE: The NBA is taking swift action in response to a recent betting scandal, focusing on the types of bets most susceptible to manipulation. Sources confirmed to ESPN that the league is currently reviewing betting limits and wagering types, heightening scrutiny on player prop bets ahead of the upcoming season.

Just announced, the NBA has identified specific bets, including those on missed free throws, fouls, and turnovers, as particularly vulnerable. Partner sportsbooks, including FanDuel and DraftKings, have agreed to halt these wagers, aligning with the league’s proactive measures. DraftKings previously offered in-game betting on free throws but will refrain from such bets this season.

The urgency stems from recent allegations against NBA guard Terry Rozier, who is accused of conspiring with gamblers regarding bets on his performance statistics. This scandal has rocked the league, leading to a reported $257,700 wagered on Rozier’s under statistics during a March 2023 game. According to the indictment, Rozier informed a friend of his intent to leave the game early, a tip that allegedly netted gamblers around $100,000.

FanDuel has emphasized its commitment to integrity, stating it collaborates closely with the NBA to determine which bets to eliminate. A spokesperson noted, “Our collaboration with the NBA has helped us determine what bets not to offer, like fouls, turnovers, or missed free throws.”

The NBA’s scrutiny is not limited to Rozier; the league previously addressed similar concerns regarding Jontay Porter, a former Toronto Raptors center. Porter, who was banned for his involvement in a gambling scheme, admitted to manipulating his performance in two games during the 2023-24 season to benefit bettors.

The growing popularity of player prop bets, particularly in basketball, has raised additional alarm. These bets are increasingly common in parlays, amplifying the stakes for bettors. As sportsbooks prepare for the 2024-25 season, they have been urged to limit wagers on players with short contracts to mitigate risks of further scandals.

While the NBA can influence its partner sportsbooks, challenges remain with daily fantasy operators and offshore sportsbooks, which are not as easily regulated. The Sports Betting Alliance has warned that any broad ban on prop bets could drive bettors to illegal platforms, increasing risks and undermining game integrity.

“That creates a dangerous blind spot for regulators and leagues, preventing them from effectively identifying and addressing threats to game integrity,” said Jeremy Kudon, president of the Sports Betting Alliance.

As the NBA continues to evaluate its betting offerings and work alongside its sportsbook partners, the focus remains on safeguarding the integrity of the game. Fans and bettors alike will be watching closely as this situation develops, with significant implications for the future of sports betting.

Stay tuned for further updates as the NBA and its partners navigate these urgent challenges in the betting landscape.