NCAA Inches Toward Allowing Pro Sports Wagering

While Division I approved the proposal, the rule change still requires approval from Division II and III committees, expected later this month. If adopted, the ban could officially lift on November 1, 2025.

Maintaining College Sports Integrity

Despite easing restrictions for pro sports betting, the NCAA will continue to bar wagers on college games and prohibit sharing gambling information with third parties. The guidelines also outline penalties for student-athletes who influence the outcome of games, bet on their own teams, or provide gambling-related tips.

University of Illinois Athletics Director Josh Whitman, chair of the Administrative Committee, emphasized that the change aligns NCAA rules with modern sports betting laws. “This adjustment allows schools and conferences to safeguard college game integrity while encouraging responsible gambling habits for those engaging in professional sports wagering,” he said.

The proposal also gained support from the DI Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), representing one student-athlete per conference. SAAC praised the move as a step toward transparency and support rather than punishment, encouraging open dialogue on gambling-related concerns.

Recent Gambling-Related Infractions

The NCAA’s pro sports betting move comes amid recent gambling violations. In September, three former Fresno State basketball players received lifetime bans after investigations revealed they manipulated performances to profit from bets shared with third parties during the 2024–25 season.

Additionally, a probe identified 13 former men’s basketball players at six schools involved in wagering violations, including betting on their teams or sharing insider information. NCAA VP of Enforcement Jon Duncan confirmed that the enforcement team continues thorough investigations, prioritizing cases that directly affect college sports integrity.