Post Reports Is the gambling explosion ruining sports?
Nov 18, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Rick Maese, a seasoned sports reporter from the Washington Post, delves into the gambling epidemic sweeping through sports. He explores how modern sportsbooks operate, revealing the surge in mobile betting and prop bets. Recent scandals involving NBA coaches and players raise questions about integrity and addiction. Maese warns that while legalized betting offers some safety, the industry teeters on the edge of compromising trust and competition. Is the thrill of sports betting worth the risks? Tune in for insights!
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Betting Became Instant And Hypergranular
- Online sportsbooks let users bet on hundreds of discrete game events from their phones, changing how people engage with sports.
- This gamification turns every stat and play into an opportunity for wagering and engagement.
A Massive, Rapidly Growing Market
- The U.S. market now handles roughly $150 billion in wagers and about $14 billion in sportsbook revenue.
- Sports betting revenue is growing near 20% year over year and legal in most states and territories.
Supreme Court Opened The Floodgates
- The 2018 Supreme Court decision let states legalize sports betting and triggered widespread market entry.
- Leagues shifted from opposing gambling to partnering with operators to capture revenue.