The NCAA's Strategic Gamble

The NCAA has entered into a deal with Genius Sports. This allows licensed sportsbooks to access official data from championship events. However, there's a catch. Sportsbooks must ban individual prop bets, especially those related to underperformance. This is to prevent manipulation and protect student-athletes.

The NCAA recognizes the vulnerability of athletes, especially at smaller schools. Criminal gambling rings can target individual players, and athletes themselves can be lured into illegal betting. Banning these bets gives compliant sportsbooks a competitive edge.

While this move doesn't solve all problems, it's a step in the right direction. The NCAA has long opposed sports wagering legalization and is now using its remaining leverage.