Published on: August 16, 2024, 06:20h.
Last updated on: August 16, 2024, 06:21h.
In breaking news from the NBA, the league has implemented a new rule prohibiting awards voters from participating in related wagering markets.
Reporter Jared Greenberg shared the announcement, indicating that this decision was made by the league’s communications office.
The NBA has officially prohibited award voters from betting on NBA Awards categories during their voting season, as reported by @NBAPR,” tweeted Greenberg.
Throughout the 2023-24 NBA season, a panel of 99 media members voted on awards such as Coach of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, MVP, and the All-NBA teams. The results were verified by Ernst & Young LLP.
Speculation Surrounding NBA Awards Betting
Many responses to Greenberg’s tweet expressed shock that voters involved in determining NBA award winners were ever allowed to bet on related markets.
While there is no evidence of misconduct in award voting, debates often arise around prestigious awards like MVP. Fans have debated whether players like LeBron James or Nikola Jokić deserved more recognition.
The decision to ban voters from participating in awards betting could be a strategic move for the NBA, given that 19 of the league’s 30 teams are in regions where sports betting is legal, including 17 states, Washington, DC, and Ontario, Canada.
Interestingly, this new rule came shortly after former player Jontay Porter was banned for life for allegedly influencing game outcomes. The NBA did not connect this scandal to the decision to prohibit awards betting.
Growing Gaming Connections in the NBA
Gaming ties are prevalent across the NBA, with three team owners owning casinos. The league also allows players to invest in wagering companies, as per the collective bargaining agreement from last year.
Washington Wizards owner Ted Leonsis played a key role in introducing retail sportsbooks to various arenas in Washington, DC.
With these developments, the NBA continues to be entwined in the world of gaming, shaping the future of sports betting within the league.