Anticipated Wagering Amount Reaches $3.1 Billion During March Madness Tournament, Considers by American Gaming Association
As March madness approaches, 39 states and Washington D.C. are ready to welcome a $3.1 billion bet wave on men's and women's NCAA games, a 11% surge from 2024.
Joe Maloney, Senior Vice President of Strategic Communications at the American Gaming Association, commented, "March Madness is America's most exhilarating sports moment, with fans stirred up for both the men's and women's NCAA tournaments." He added, "With the legal wagering industry expanding across the U.S., more enthusiasts are equipped than ever to bet responsibly."
In March, the AGA's 'Have a Game Plan. Bet Responsibly' campaign will remind fans to gamble wisely and enjoy the games without losing their cool. The campaign stresses five tenets:
- Establish a Budget: Determine what you're comfortable spending and stay within your limits.
- Make it a Social Experience: Betting is a shared pastime with friends.
- Know the Odds: Familiarize yourself with the games and odds to enhance your chances of winning.
- Legitimate Venues: Opt for regulated, legal betting platforms.
- Maintain Your Composure: Remember, the outcome of a bet doesn't warrant online or in-person criticisms of players, coaches, or officials.
Maloney stated, "Our latest 'Have A Game Plan' principle, 'Keep Your Cool,' is all about preserving the fun and respecting the game, despite the unpredictability of March Madness."
Since the 2018 Supreme Court's decision to overthrow the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), legal sports betting has been legalized in 38 states and Washington D.C. The AGA reports that American support for legal sports betting remains steady. Per the AGA's 2024 American Attitudes Survey, 75% of Americans endorse legal sports wagering in their home state, and 90% consider it an acceptable form of entertainment.
Sports Betting across the USA
- Legalization Status: Currently, 39 states and Washington D.C. have legalized sports betting, with 32 states providing online and mobile betting options[5].
- NCAA Events: Although laws and regulations may differ by state, several states now allow bets on NCAA basketball tournaments[2][5]. Some states may have restrictions on wagering on in-state college teams or events.
- State-Specific Rules: While there are no federal prohibitions against betting on NCAA events, individual states have their own policies[2]. For instance, some states forbid betting on in-state college teams or impose specific conditions for betting on college sports.
Upcoming Trends
- Missouri: Anticipated to initiate sports betting by December 1, 2025, following the passage of a law to authorize it[2].
- Additional States: States like Alaska, Hawaii, Oklahoma, and Texas are exploring or have pending sports betting legislation[1].
In conclusion, the legal sports betting landscape in the U.S. is evolving, with numerous states working towards refining regulations. The industry's revenues continue to grow, with NCAA basketball tournaments playing a vital role in generating significant income.
Sports betting on NCAA tournaments has become increasingly popular, given the upcoming surge in wagers worth $3.1 billion during the 2025 season, marking a 11% increase from 2024. As of now, 39 states and Washington D.C. have legalized sports betting, expanding the opportunities for sports-betting enthusiasts across the USA.
