Geno Auriemma Laments Explosion of Sports Gambling
Auriemma has won 12 national championships with the Huskies.
Geno Auriemma, coach of UConn's women's basketball team, warns that the growing influence of sports gambling could lead to a scandal in women's college basketball. In an interview with Front Office Sports Tonight, Auriemma expressed concern that betting may become "just normal behavior" and impact the game, similar to issues seen in men's college and professional basketball.
He noted that the smartphone era has made it easier for young players to bet on each play during a game. Auriemma emphasized that the NCAA prohibits student-athletes from betting on sports, but the rules haven't stopped players from placing bets, as some admitted to doing so during their college eligibility. The volume of athletes makes it difficult for institutions to police such activities.
Moreover, sports gambling has reportedly increased abuse allegations, with women's basketball players receiving approximately three times more threats than men. Professional sports leagues, including the NBA and WNBA, have partnered with sportsbooks and are open to prediction markets.
Written by urgent.news from Front Office Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
