In a collaborative effort, the National Basketball Association (NBA), Major League Baseball (MLB), and the National Hockey League (NHL) have unveiled a 30-second spot titled “Never Know What’s Next.” The campaign, supported by leading sportsbook operators and the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), aims to promote responsible betting in sports.
Encouraging Responsible Betting:
The spot, backed by sportsbook operators including DraftKings, Fanatics Sportsbook, FanDuel, PENN Entertainment, and NCPG, delivers a crucial message urging fans to practice responsible betting. The campaign emphasizes the importance of setting limits, conveying that sports betting is a form of entertainment and debunking the notion of “locks” or “easy money” in the realm of sports betting.
Educational Message:
The 30-second spot features live game action from the NBA, MLB, and NHL to illustrate the unpredictability of sports. The campaign reinforces the message that every play, shot, or swing is inherently unpredictable, whether it’s a game-winning shot from beyond half court, a pivotal save on the ice, or a walk-off home run.
Collaborative Initiative:
Scott Kaufman-Ross, NBA Senior Vice President Head of Gaming & New Business Ventures, highlighted the significance of collaboration across sports leagues, gaming operators, and responsible gaming partners. The shared priority is to make a substantial impact on responsible gaming education, particularly for young bettors. The NBA emphasizes the importance of ensuring fans are aware of the risks associated with betting and dispelling misconceptions that it is a reliable way to make money.
Casey Brett, MLB Senior Vice President of Business Development, expressed pride in being part of the campaign, emphasizing the paramount need for fans to bet responsibly. The initiative aligns with the commitment of sports leagues to ensure the safety of sports betting for all participants.
The collaborative effort of the NBA, MLB, NHL, sportsbook operators, and the NCPG underscores a collective commitment to responsible sports betting. Through impactful messages and engaging visuals, the campaign seeks to educate fans about the unpredictable nature of sports and the importance of approaching sports betting as a form of entertainment with defined limits. This initiative reflects a proactive approach by sports leagues and industry partners to foster a culture of responsible sports betting across the United States.