NBA and WNBA target problem gambling in NCPG campaign

The campaign will be aimed at young adults and will direct viewers to educational materials to help them recognise warning signs and find support.

US.- The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) have partnered with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) on a responsible gaming campaign set to launch during the 2026-27 NBA season. The initiative will use a new advertising spot across social media and linear platforms, on the leagues’ own channels and those of partners.

The campaign will focus on educating fans, particularly young adults, about the risks of sports betting and prediction markets. It will stress that even people with extensive sports knowledge can lose money and that these activities should be treated as entertainment, not as a way to generate income.

The initiative will encourage participants to understand the risks involved, set limits on their time and spending, avoid wagering money they cannot afford to lose and seek help if gambling becomes difficult to control. The campaign will also highlight the potential consequences of excessive participation and link to educational materials and resources to help them recognise warning signs and find support.

“As the ways people engage with sports continue to evolve, it is important that fans understand the risks associated with putting money on sports outcomes,” said Scott Kaufman-Ross, NBA Head of Media Distribution and Partnerships. He added that the campaign aims to help fans make informed decisions and participate responsibly if they choose to bet or trade on prediction markets.

WNBA Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison said the initiative would extend that guidance to the league’s audiences. “By bringing this campaign to WNBA audiences, we can reach more fans with practical guidance on understanding financial risk, setting limits and recognising when and where to find support,” she said.

“Awareness is an important first step in preventing gambling-related harm,” said Derek Longmeier, President of the NCPG Board of Directors. “We’re proud to support a campaign that brings greater visibility to the risks of sports betting and prediction markets and puts education at the forefront, helping fans better understand the potential for harm and the resources available to those who may need help.”

Fans can find responsible gaming information and resources at ResponsiblePlay.org. Anyone concerned about their own gambling or that of a loved one can call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET for free, confidential support available 24 hours.