Legalized Gambling On NBA Games, Stern Says It Is A Possibility

David Stern has always been one of the major sports commissioners that has looked to the future and does not get stuck in the past. That is a main reason why the NBA is experiencing the type of success they are having today.

In an interview, however, with Ian Thomsen from SI.com, Stern did the unthinkable. The NBA commissioner acknowledged that legalized betting on the NBA could become a reality sometime in the future. When Thomsen asked Stern "if it is in the best interests of his league to seek legalization of sports betting," his answer was stunning.

"It has been a matter of league policy to answer that question, 'no,'" said Stern, "But I think that that league policy was formulated at a time when gambling was far less widespread-even legally."

Stern pointed to state governments that are expanding their gambling laws to help deal with the economic recession. He believes that gambling is becoming more acceptable, and that there is growing feeling in state governments that gambling is not immoral.

The NBA has joined the NCAA, NFL, and MLB in opposing a new sports betting law in Delaware. Attorneys for the group of sports leagues argued successfully this past year that Delaware should not be allowed to offer single-game betting.

While Stern admitted to the possibility that betting on the NBA may become a reality in the future, it is not currently the leagues stance to push for legalized NBA gambling.

December 12, 2009
Posted By Vincent Tapoglia III
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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