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KQED's Forum

Has Sports Betting Changed the Game for the Bettor?

Jan 16, 2025
Ryan Rodenberg, a sports betting expert from Florida State University, Danny Funt, a journalist with insights from The Washington Post, and David Purdum, an ESPN writer focused on the industry, delve into the explosive growth of sports betting since its legalization. They discuss the evolving fan engagement, shifting perceptions among leagues from opposition to acceptance, and the ethical implications of aggressive betting ads. The conversation highlights concerns about game integrity, athlete harassment, and the rising prevalence of betting among youth.
57:52

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The explosion of sports betting post-Supreme Court's 2018 decision has led to 67.8 million Americans wagering $23 billion on the Super Bowl alone.
  • Technology's role in transforming sports betting into an engaging, gamified experience has raised concerns about underage gambling and addiction among youth.

Deep dives

The Rise of Sports Betting in America

Sports betting has significantly grown in the United States, particularly after the Supreme Court's 2018 decision that allowed states to legalize the practice. As a result, sports betting is now legal in 38 states and D.C., with major companies like FanDuel and DraftKings dominating the market, accounting for about three-quarters of all bets placed. The Super Bowl has become a prime example of this growth, attracting 67.8 million bettors who wagered $23 billion in a single year. This increase contrasts the historical stance of sports leagues, which once viewed betting as a threat, now embracing it as a source of revenue and fan engagement.

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