Published on: October 10, 2025, 12:37h.
Updated on: October 10, 2025, 12:37h.
- MGC penalizes PENN $15K for ESPN’s “risk-free” statement
- Davis’s humorous betting comment breaches Massachusetts advertising laws
- PENN faces consequences for ESPN BET broadcasting language
Rece Davis, a host on ESPN, has put PENN Sports Interactive (PSI) in a difficult position with Massachusetts gambling regulators due to inappropriate comments he made during a segment on the well-known “College GameDay” show.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has fined PSI $15,000 due to misleading advertising practices after the seasoned sports anchor called a betting tip “a risk-free investment” during a live broadcast.
Negative Impression
Davis was discussing betting recommendations made on March 24, 2024, by ESPN sports betting analyst Erin Dolan, who advised viewers to bet the under on a total of 60.5 points for Northwestern University against UConn during March Madness.
“Some might call this wagering or gambling,” Davis remarked. “I think the way you presented this … it’s a risk-free investment.”
Although the bet was successful, the MGC expressed concern over Davis’s choice of words.
The MGC concluded that his language violated state sports betting regulations that prohibit marketing claims suggesting that bets are free of risk or certain to succeed. It also contradicted internal ESPN BET Content Guidance that forbids terms like “can’t lose” or “risk-free.”
Davis later clarified on Twitter that his comment was made “in jest.”
“Sports are unpredictable,” he noted. “Betting carries inherent risks. Let’s work together to manage financial risks appropriately.”
Further Complications
However, his appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” seemingly complicated matters when he failed to apologize for the phrase.
“I don’t believe anyone thought we were actually giving away free money. Perhaps it’s wiser to follow the old ‘David Letterman’ approach and state this is an exhibition, not a competition; therefore, no betting allowed,” Davis stated.
The MGC expressed concerns about this clarification, especially regarding Davis’s assertion that “the bet won,” which they felt undermined the prohibition against “risk-free” language.
In its findings, the MGC highlighted that although the controversial language originated from a broadcast and wasn’t directly used in the ESPN BET application, PENN is nonetheless accountable under state laws for all promotional and marketing content related to its sportsbook, regardless of the source.
The commission underscored the seriousness of the violation, particularly since claims of “risk-free” betting can mislead consumers about the realities of wagering. They also expressed disappointment in PENN’s public response, which they felt lacked urgency and clarity.