The NBA and WNBA will launch a responsible gaming campaign that warns fans about the risks of both sports betting and prediction markets, partnering with the National Council on Problem Gambling to reach young adults in particular.
The campaign will debut during the 2026-27 NBA season, which starts next Tuesday, though the leagues have not announced exact timing. The spot will run across social and linear platforms on league-owned and partner channels.
The NBA already partners with DraftKings and FanDuel and is exploring potential partnerships with prediction markets, according to Front Office Sports. Still, not everyone in the league is comfortable with the gambling expansion.
Message for NBA, WNBA fans
The NBA and WNBA want fans to understand that wagering carries real risk. When not done responsibly, adverse effects can extend beyond finances to mental well-being and relationships with family and friends.
The campaign will stress the risks, encourage fans to set limits on time and money spent and direct them to responsible gaming education and resources.
“We’re proud to support a campaign that brings greater visibility to the risks of sports betting and prediction markets and puts education at the forefront, helping fans better understand the potential for harm and the resources available to those who may need help,” Derek Longmeier, president of the NCPG board of directors, said in a statement.
The leagues are directing fans to visit ResponsiblePlay.org for responsible gaming information and resources and the 1-800-MY-RESET helpline for free, confidential support 24/7.
The role of prediction markets
Prediction markets have sparked controversy nationwide by offering sports event contracts.
Prediction markets are regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and are seen as financial instruments. However, the league is making clear that wagering or trading should be for entertainment purposes only, and not to generate income.
“As the ways people engage with sports continue to evolve, it is important that fans understand the risks associated with putting money on sports outcomes,” said Scott Kaufman-Ross, head of media distribution and partnerships at the NBA. “Through this campaign, we want to help fans make informed decisions, understand the risk and, if they choose to bet, trade or anything similar, that they do so responsibly.”
Longmeier’s statement specifically addressed prediction markets. The NCPG created a Financial Services & Trading membership category to admit Kalshi as a member and accepted a $2 million investment from the company.
That caused an uproar, as the Michigan Gaming Control Board, Nevada Council on Problem Gambling and Ohio Casino Control Commission left the organization over the last several months. It also triggered Executive Director Heather Maurer‘s resignation from the NCPG, which is set for Friday.
Discomfort in the league
There has been some pushback in the NBA from a star player and a high-level executive over the harms of gambling.
San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama said earlier this month he would “absolutely not” partner with a sportsbook and is “very sad to see some players promote it.” Wembanyama has turned down large endorsement deals that do not match his values and will only promote companies that have a “good impact” and a “good influence in the world.”
Minnesota Timberwolves president of basketball operations Tim Connelly worries gambling could become the main reason some fans watch the NBA. He wants people tuning in because they enjoy the game.
“We have to be cognizant that we’re not developing a generation of people only watching the sport to gamble,” he said during the team’s media day. “I hope that sports and the enjoyment of sports is not adversely affected by people watching the games for the wrong reasons.”
There are multiple players tied to prediction markets, including LeBron James with Polymarket and Giannis Antetokounmpo as a shareholder with Kalshi.
