Sports gambling has become far more popular because of the easing of laws and the prominence of multiple betting websites.
Today, the NBA openly advertises sports gambling, which is a major change from only a few years ago.
But this change needs to be handled delicately, according to Cleveland Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff.
Speaking with the press, via ClutchPoints, Bickerstaff talked about how sports gamblers have inserted themselves into his life in some alarming ways.
“They got my telephone number and were sending me crazy messages about where I live and my kids and all that stuff. So it is a dangerous game and a fine line that we’re walking,” Bickerstaff said.
"They got my telephone number & were sending me crazy messages about where I live and my kids and all that stuff. So it is a dangerous game and a fine line that we're walking."
Cavs head coach J.B. Bickerstaff on receiving threats from sports gamblers.pic.twitter.com/GN1WanMGna
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 21, 2024
Threatening a coach and his family is never acceptable, especially because of betting.
This shows just how far certain people will go and how dangerous they can get.
Bickerstaff isn’t the only person who has openly talked about how gambling has complicated the NBA.
Certain players have mentioned how they feel disrespected and sometimes even in danger because of how committed certain fans get.
When money is on the line, people can lose sight of what’s right and wrong and it can lead to uncomfortable and even dangerous situations.
The NBA will have to continue monitoring the situation while listening to statements from Bickerstaff and others.
While the league has accepted sports gambling and is reaping the benefits of it, they also have to make sure it is handled well.
If anything were to ever happen to players or coaches because of gambling, it would be a huge problem.
The league is going through many changes right now and the addition of sports gambling is one of them.
Bickerstaff’s comments should be alarming for the league and they need to take them very seriously.
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