By Trace White
What appears as entertainment can slowly start to stir into a haunting future. Accessibility to sports betting has become increasingly common. Researchers try to conclude the cause and effect of constant gambling use. The findings, based on multiple studies, are the rising rates of financial and mental stress.
A well-known example is the recent NBA gambling scandal that occurred early in the 25-26 season. 34 people were arrested, notably Heat player Terry Rozier, Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Damon Jones. Notable charges include: wire fraud, illegal gambling, and money laundering.
The NBA has had similar incidents in 2007 and 2024, involving referees like Tim Donaghy and players like Jontay Porter. Other leagues have had incidents as well. Players and officials believe they can get away with this as sports betting has become increasingly normalized since legalization in 2018, making these incidents an increasing issue.
Although sportsbook ads have dropped around 27% since their peak in 2021, according to the American Gaming Association, participation has risen. The rate of participants with active accounts has risen by 5% since 2025, according to Yogonet.
The JAMA Internal Medicine had a study last February researching the increase in internet searches on gambling addiction hotlines from Jan 1, 2016, to June 30, 2024. The study showed that these internet searches have increased by roughly 23% since the legalization. This highlights the mental distress of sports betting and why it should not be used recklessly.
“It’s not proud to say I have, but yes, I have,” said Irvin Duhart. He started sports betting after seeing peers and others make their livelihood from it, including someone who got a payout of $57,000. He described how winning feels like accomplishing something. He also revealed how he won’t bet more than $100, as he said, “I don’t bet no more than I can afford to use.”
He says even though he hasn’t had a financial issue, he sees how addiction leads people to have financial issues. “There are so many ways to bet; it kinda waters down the sports, and it takes away from the true essence of the game.”
He mentioned previous sports scandals, particularly the Tim Donaghy situation back in 2007, stating how “even the refs are betting on the game themselves.”
Betting on sports doesn’t have a clear outcome, but studies show it can have a drastic impact on your life.