March Madness Betting to Hit Record $3.1 Billion as Legal Wagering Expands
The frenzy of March Madness is set to reach new heights this year, with American bettors expected to legally wager a staggering $3.1 billion on the men’s and women’s NCAA basketball tournaments, according to projections from the American Gaming Association (AGA). This marks a significant increase from the $2.7 billion wagered in 2024, underlining the rapid growth of legal sports betting across the United States.
The AGA attributes this rise to the continued expansion of legal betting markets and the increasing confidence in regulated platforms. As more states embrace legalized sports wagering, fans nationwide are placing their bets with unprecedented enthusiasm.
“March Madness is one of the most electrifying periods in American sports, with fans deeply engaged in both the men’s and women’s NCAA tournaments,” said Joe Maloney, AGA’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Communications. “With legal sports betting reaching more states, more fans than ever can participate responsibly.”
Responsible Betting Initiative: Amid the surge in betting activity, the AGA is reinforcing its commitment to responsible gaming through its ‘Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly.’ initiative. The campaign emphasizes five core principles designed to promote a safe and enjoyable betting experience:
- Set a Budget: Determine your spending limit and stick to it.
- Keep it Social: Betting should be a fun, shared experience.
- Know the Odds: Understand the risks and probabilities before wagering.
- Play Legally: Use only licensed and regulated betting platforms.
- Keep Your Cool: Whether winning or losing, maintain sportsmanship and respect for players, coaches, and officials.
Maloney highlighted the importance of the latest principle, “Keep Your Cool,” as a reminder that while betting adds excitement, it should never fuel negativity or unsportsmanlike behavior.
Legal Betting Landscape: Since the Supreme Court’s 2018 ruling that overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), legal sports betting has expanded rapidly. Today, it is available in 38 states and Washington, D.C., providing millions of Americans with regulated and secure wagering opportunities.
Public sentiment continues to favor legalized betting, with the AGA’s 2024 American Attitudes Survey revealing that 75% of Americans support legal sports wagering in their state. Additionally, 90% of respondents view sports betting as a legitimate form of entertainment.
As March Madness approaches, both fans and industry leaders are gearing up for another record-breaking tournament, with responsible gaming at the forefront of the conversation.