Research Shows Growing Doubt Around NBA Game Integrity

new nationwide poll from Sacred Heart University revealed a clear decline in confidence among US sports bettors as recent betting investigations place fresh attention on the NBA. The research offers a snapshot of how ongoing cases are shaping attitudes across the betting community.

Good to Know

• 79 percent of bettors say scandals are affecting trust in NBA integrity
• Nearly 36 percent are now less likely to bet on NBA games
• Survey included 500 US bettors and carries a 4.3 percent margin of error

Bettors Voice Doubts As Integrity Concerns Rise

Sacred Heart University, working with GreatBlue Research, surveyed 500 US sports bettors during the first week of November. Results show that 79 percent feel the latest gambling issues are influencing how they view NBA game integrity. Nearly 40 percent said those concerns affect trust “a lot.”

The impact extends to betting habits. Almost 36 percent said they are now less likely to place NBA wagers, while 45 percent of that group expect to shift toward leagues such as the NFL. More than 27 percent said they plan to reduce sports betting altogether.

Not all reactions point in the same direction. Nearly 30 percent said they are more likely to bet on the NBA following the scandals. Andrew Miller, director of Sacred Heart sport communication and media graduate program, said:

“The kneejerk reaction among nearly a third of respondents to switch, at least temporarily, from betting on NBA games isn’t surprising. What was interesting is how many — close to 30% — said they’re now more likely to bet on NBA games, perhaps assuming games will be more closely monitored.”

Concerns Spread To Other Leagues And College Sports

Respondents did not limit their worries to the NBA. Roughly 75 percent said they believe corruption exists across multiple sports, including college programs. Investigations involving NCAA athletes and actions taken in Major League Baseball have intensified those concerns.

Sacred Heart ran a similar poll during the spring. That earlier survey, conducted before the latest NBA cases, showed more than 60 percent of Americans were uneasy about legal sports betting increasing corruption risks. At the time, Miller said:

“While sports betting is now widely accepted and easily accessible, a clear majority of Americans are uneasy about the potential for corruption and the erosion of fair play.”

He added that public awareness and stronger oversight may help limit harm in the long term.

Bettors Debate Accountability And Enforcement

The survey showed that nearly half of respondents believe individual players and coaches should take more responsibility for gambling-related issues. About 20 percent pointed to professional leagues themselves, while just over 13 percent placed responsibility on betting platforms.

Stricter enforcement drew widespread support. More than 80 percent said they favor tighter oversight, including 44 percent who expressed “strong” support. Older bettors were more likely to say coaches and players hold the greatest responsibility, while younger participants leaned toward placing accountability on sportsbooks.

Advertising Remains A Major Concern For Many

Advertising also played a prominent role in the survey results. Nearly 70 percent of bettors said promotional activity could encourage “risky or unethical behaviour.” Over 30 percent felt “very concerned.” Older bettors, men and college-aged respondents showed the highest levels of worry.

Fewer than 10 percent indicated that advertising had no impact on their concerns. In Sacred Heart’s earlier poll, more than 26 percent of Americans believed sports coverage included too much gambling content. At the time, Sacred Heart Sport Management Program director Josh Shuart said:

“Gambling is making sports more interactive for viewers, but many people — especially those most engaged — are seeing firsthand how quickly it can become problematic.”

FAQ

Who conducted the survey?

Sacred Heart University and GreatBlue Research conducted the survey of 500 US sports bettors.

How widespread is the loss of trust?

Seventy-nine percent said NBA integrity concerns have increased due to recent betting investigations.

Are bettors changing their habits?

Yes. Some are shifting toward other leagues, some plan to reduce betting and nearly 30 percent said they may bet more on NBA games.

Do bettors blame leagues or individuals?

Nearly half point to players and coaches, while smaller portions blame leagues or sportsbooks.

What role does advertising play?

Most respondents said gambling ads could influence risky decisions or questionable behaviour.