Fantasy Sports And Gambling

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By: staff Posted: June 8, 2009

Fantasy Sports and Gambling

Last May, the relationship of gambling and fantasy sports was once again scrutinized. The news was very popular in two states only (Montana and Delaware) but its long term effect would be nationwide. As an avid fantasy sports player, you should be aware of this situation. To give you a brief idea about the news, NCAA complained to the state government of Delaware’s new laws on fantasy sports games. The state has now allowed fantasy sports to be part of the betting law. In gist, fantasy sports betting online would be allowed in Delaware. NCAA do not want this to happen since fantasy sports betting could have a direct influence of the game. They even threatened to ban NCAA Playoffs in Delaware if they push through with the law (but it did anyway).

The state’s reason for allowing fantasy sports in their league without fear of NCAA is because Montana also enacted almost the same law without any complaints from NCAA. In fact, there are a few states around the country that have recognized fantasy sports.

From the standpoint of NCAA, it could be understood that fantasy sports could lead to betting. Since college players are getting very popular without any financial compensation, they could be influenced by those who are in illegal gambling.

It’s the Gambling, not the Fantasy Sports

But if you take a look on what NCAA fears the most, it’s actually on illegal gambling and not on fantasy sports. It could look like it will influence players, but these are nothing but numbers. It’s just that the money fueled in fantasy sports could lead to illegal gambling but they actually do not. There are millions of fantasy sports players who just wanted to have additional fun while watching their favorite team or player.

The Government Side

The government’s take on fantasy sports is actually a little bit frustrating if you take a look at it closely. Their apparent liking of fantasy sports is only based on the revenue. Millions could be earned by the state government if they will say “yes” to fantasy sports. To put it bluntly, they are only in it “for the money”.

The government’s standpoint is somehow scary since this could lead to gambling. That’s where NCAA’s point of not allowing fantasy sports in their league came from. Money could destroy not only the concept of friendly gaming in fantasy sports but other professional leagues as well.

Do Your Part

The argument between the government, NCAA and other fantasy sports websites basically stems from the question, “are you gambling?” Gambling in fantasy sports is a serious charge of NCAA which could have effects on other professional sports.

You can actually do something in your end: limit your spending in fantasy sports. Of course, it could be fun with a few challenges but spending thousands of dollars in fantasy league only pushes the operators to use the money to sway the results. Remember, fantasy sports are just games and should not take over your life. It’s ok to be a fan but not an obsessive fan.