NCAA President Baker Urges States to Ban Risky College Sports Bets
NCAA President Charlie Baker has called on states to implement bans on risky college sports betting, emphasizing the integrity of college athletics.
NCAA’s Commitment to Integrity
The NCAA operates one of the world’s largest integrity monitoring programs. It has urged states to eliminate proposition bets due to the risks they pose to the integrity of college sports. The NCAA maintains that it does not have any commercial partnerships with betting companies.
Concerns About Match Manipulation
In a recent statement, Baker acknowledged a growing pattern of misconduct in college basketball, highlighted by ongoing investigations. He expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their efforts in tackling integrity issues and match manipulation.
Investigations and Findings
Over the past year, the NCAA’s enforcement staff has initiated integrity investigations concerning sports betting involving approximately 40 student-athletes from 20 different institutions. Here are some key findings:
- 11 student-athletes from seven schools engaged in betting on their own performances.
- Some shared confidential information with known bettors.
- All individuals involved faced a permanent loss of NCAA eligibility.
- Additionally, 13 student-athletes from eight schools failed to cooperate with inquiries, providing false information or refusing interviews.
All of these athletes are currently ineligible to compete.
The Path Forward
The NCAA is determined to pursue violations related to sports betting rigorously. Their integrity monitoring program oversees more than 22,000 events. However, Baker stresses that without support from remaining states, regulators, and gaming companies, the integrity of college sports will remain at risk.
He further urged all student-athletes to make informed choices to safeguard their eligibility and the integrity of the games they play.
