NBA, MLB Players Face Betting Scandal Fallout, Sparking Congressional Concern
WASHINGTON – Professional sports leagues are reeling from a series of betting scandals involving NBA and MLB players, prompting a congressional investigation and raising concerns about the integrity of the games and the rise of sports gambling.
Recent investigations revealed allegations of illegal sports wagering by several athletes. The NBA is investigating Toronto Raptors forward Jontay porter after allegations surfaced that he disclosed confidential medical information and compromised games due to bets he knew about.MLB is investigating Shohei OhtaniS interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, accused of stealing millions to cover gambling debts. Ohtani has denied knowledge of Mizuhara’s alleged betting activity.
“All these scandals,” said Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C.”People are going to get tired of it and move on. I mean, my God, football, basketball, baseball shoudl all be worried now that watching people play video games is a spectator sport.”
The scandals come as sports betting has rapidly expanded across the United States following the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision overturning a federal ban on sports wagering. According to Rep. Paul Tonko, D-N.Y., one in five Americans bet on sports at least once a month, and 7 million people have a gambling problem, with one in five of those addicted to gambling attempting suicide.
“It’s impossible to ignore the similarities between sportsbooks today and the big tobacco efforts of decades earlier,” Tonko said. “rather of ads with doctors recommending cigarettes, it’s celebrities teaching viewers how to bet.”
Concerns also center on the design of gaming apps and their potential to foster addiction, notably among younger audiences. Ben Affleck noted, “That’s what the leagues have to be worried about – a sense that everybody’s on the take.”
congress is currently investigating the scandals, but the outcome remains uncertain. Eric Schmitt argued against federal overreach, suggesting regulation should remain at the state level.
Given the current political climate, analysts suggest notable legislative action is unlikely.
