URGENT UPDATE: The NCAA has just announced a stunning reversal of its controversial plan to allow college athletes to bet on professional sports. Following a Justice Department investigation into alleged illegal gambling involving an active NBA player and coach, Division I school leaders have swiftly rescinded the decision.
Just last month, the NCAA voted to permit athletes to wager on professional sports, with the new rules set to take effect on November 1, 2023. However, leaders from Division I institutions have acted quickly, with a procedural timeline allowing them to withdraw their approval until November 21, 2023. In a statement released today, the NCAA confirmed that two-thirds of Division I member schools voted to retract the approval, citing ongoing concerns about integrity and compliance.
The NCAA stated, “Because sports betting rules are common legislation, the ban on all forms of betting — for sports in which the NCAA sponsors a championship — will remain in place for all three NCAA divisions.” This decision reflects the organization’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of college sports amidst rising gambling scandals.
The reversal comes on the heels of alarming statistics from an anonymous NCAA survey conducted in 2024, which revealed that 22% of male athletes and 5% of female athletes admitted to wagering on sports, despite prohibitions in place. The NCAA has faced mounting scrutiny as scandals unfold, including a case where former Temple basketball player Hysier Miller acknowledged betting on his own team and allegedly betting against Temple on three occasions.
Earlier this week, the NCAA disclosed that over one-third of Division I men’s basketball players reported harassment from bettors, highlighting a growing crisis in college athletics. This latest decision is seen as a necessary step to protect student-athletes from the pressures and risks associated with gambling.
As this situation continues to evolve, college sports fans, athletes, and stakeholders are urged to stay informed on any further updates regarding NCAA policies and their implications. The urgency surrounding this issue underscores the need for ongoing discussions about the intersection of sports and gambling in the collegiate arena.
