Sports Gambling Surge in AZ: The Hidden Costs for Students and Athletes

Sports gambling is experiencing rapid growth in Arizona, particularly among college students. Since its legalization in 2021, the state has seen a striking increase in sports betting, surpassing Nevada in terms of wagering volume. In April alone, Arizona sportsbooks reported nearly $100 million more in bets when compared to their Nevada counterparts, according to the Arizona Department of Gaming. This surge can be attributed, in part, to the engagement of Arizona State University (ASU) students.

Douglas Santo, an ASU student, noted, “Sports betting has become a regular activity, rather than something people shy away from discussing.” This shift reflects a broader cultural acceptance, as sports betting has moved from a clandestine act to a common topic of conversation, even infiltrating classroom discussions.

The normalization of sports betting across 38 states has reshaped the landscape for students. Brendon Pehar, a rising senior, shared that most of his peers have placed numerous bets, illustrating an ingrained culture of wagering. “The first thing I ask when discussing a game is, ‘What do you have on this?’” said Pehar.

However, this current trend is not without a controversial history. In the 1990s, ASU was embroiled in a point-shaving scandal involving basketball players who accepted bribes to manipulate game outcomes. While the past highlighted significant risks associated with gambling, the current environment presents new challenges as sports betting becomes commonplace.

ASU’s athletic director, Graham Rossini, emphasized the importance of educating student-athletes about the implications of sports betting. “Our athletes need to understand that engaging in sports betting jeopardizes their eligibility,” he stated. Rossini also pointed out that the accessibility of athletes through social media increases their vulnerability to harassment from frustrated gamblers.

In addressing these pressures, ASU has bolstered its mental health resources. Rossini suggested eliminating prop bets, which focus on individual players’ performances and can lead to increased backlash against athletes when bets are not fulfilled. “There’s an expectation that they perform under scrutiny,” he remarked.

The impact of sports betting extends beyond athletes; it also affects the broader student population. A study by the NCAA found that 58% of young adults aged 18 to 22 engage in sports gambling. Paul Gibson, Clinic Director of Ellie Mental Health, raised concerns about this trend. “Many students apply financial aid to gambling, which can lead to severe consequences for their finances,” Gibson noted.

Gibson acknowledged the stigma surrounding gambling addiction. “People often feel more comfortable seeking help for substance abuse than for gambling issues,” he explained. This silence complicates the understanding of the problem and hinders treatment for those in need.

Christopher Boan, a lead writer for BetArizona.com, pointed out that gambling on college campuses is far from new. “Despite the advent of mobile betting, the underlying demand on campuses has remained constant,” he remarked. The legalization of sports betting has merely provided a legitimate avenue for activities that were previously shrouded in secrecy.

Pehar, who embraces sports betting, sees it as a way to enrich his engagement with sports. “I’ve developed a newfound interest in soccer through betting,” he remarked, highlighting a personal connection that extends beyond mere gambling.

The influx of betting advertisements targeting young adults has also caught attention. An NCAA study showed that 63% of on-campus students have encountered betting advertisements, with 58% claiming that these ads make them more likely to bet. Boan emphasized that the focus on younger demographics is crucial for sports betting companies as more individuals reach the legal betting age.

Despite concerns about gambling losses, some students downplay their experiences to normalize gambling behaviors. “Comparisons to friends’ losses help minimize their own,” Gibson said, pointing to a culture of rationalization among bettors.

As sports betting continues to integrate into Arizona’s social fabric, it remains clear that this phenomenon is not a fleeting trend. Regardless of the outcomes in sports, it is evident that bettors across the state will remain active participants on game day.