NCAA says players facing unprecedented abuse online from bettors
The NCAA has released new research highlighting the growing impact of sports betting on student-athletes, with concerns raised over fan abuse and its effect on wellbeing and performance.
The February 2026 survey, conducted in partnership with Queensland University of Technology and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, gathered responses from more than 7,400 Division I athletes. Findings show that while most athletes remain unaware of betting markets tied to their performances, attitudes toward wagering are increasingly negative.
NCAA President Charlie Baker said the proliferation of sports betting was concerning for players, who were facing unprecedented, often negative engagement online.
“This time of year can be magical for so many players, but it also can quickly become a nightmare due to abuse from fans engaging in sports betting,” he said.
“The NCAA is actively working to protect college athletes by monitoring abuse through our collaborations with Signify and Venmo, and we are doing everything we can to prevent student-athletes from experiencing this type of abuse.
“But sportsbooks and regulators in some states can do more now by eliminating the prop bets we know are leading to harassment.”
More than half of respondents said sports betting contributes to unfair public scrutiny (52%) and undermines the integrity of competition (55%), while 65% believe betting-related fan behaviour compromises the spirit of sport.
The study also revealed direct exposure to betting-related abuse. Around nine per cent of athletes reported experiencing online, verbal or physical abuse linked to betting outcomes, with significantly higher rates in men’s sports. Notably, nearly half of Division I men’s basketball players reported such incidents.
Among those affected, athletes reported increased stress, reduced enjoyment and diminished focus, with some indicating a direct negative impact on performance.
The NCAA said the findings will inform future education and policy initiatives aimed at protecting athletes as sports betting continues to expand across the USA, with 32 states now having regulated the industry.
