Americans are anticipated to place $3.1 billion in legal wagers on men's and women's NCAA basketball tournaments this year, as projected by the American Gaming Association (AGA). This marks an increase from the $2.7 billion wagered on March Madness in 2024, highlighting the growth of regulated sports betting and increasing confidence in legal platforms, according to the trade group.
"March Madness is one of the most thrilling times in American sports, with fans excited for both the men's and women's NCAA tournaments," said Joe Maloney, AGA's Senior Vice President of Strategic Communications. "As legal betting spreads across the US, more fans have the chance to place their bets in a responsible and regulated environment."
In March, the AGA is further promoting its Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly. campaign to encourage responsible betting during the tournament. The initiative emphasizes five main guidelines: Set a Budget, Keep it Social, Know the Odds, Play Legally, and Keep Your Cool.
- Set a Budget: Decide on an amount you're willing to spend and stick to it.
- Keep it Social: Enjoy betting as a shared activity with friends and family.
- Know the Odds: Be aware of the games and your chances of winning.
- Keep Your Cool: Regardless of the outcome, avoid criticizing players, coaches, or officials in-person or online.
Maloney emphasized that the new guideline, "Keep Your Cool," is a reminder that betting should remain enjoyable and respectful, no matter how unpredictable March Madness can be.
Since the 2018 Supreme Court decision to repeal the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), legal sports betting is now available in 38 states and Washington, D.C.
The AGA's 2024 American Attitudes Survey found that 75% of Americans support legal sports betting in their state, and 90% consider it an acceptable form of entertainment.
Source:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/americans-to-legally-wager-estimated-3-1-billion-on-march-madness-302400554.html
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