While there are a set of pros and cons to inserting gambling into sports, there are several arguments that highlight the latter more. Among those who stand against the addition of this new mechanism to the NBA is Cleveland Cavaliers head coach JB Bickerstaff.
Just recently, the issue of gambling was highlighted when Minnesota Timberwolves Rudy Gobert made an inappropriate gesture that suggested referees were receiving money from the said practice. The All-Star center made this move after officials slapped him with his sixth foul, causing him to be ejected from their game against the Cavs.
After the incident, the NBA threw down the hammer by fining Gobert to the amount of $100,000. In a statement, the league took the center’s past instances of detrimental conduct into consideration, along with his criticism of Scott Foster revolving around receiving money to fix the game.
Although Gobert’s gesture didn’t prove anything, the issue of gambling garnered more attention. This led several personalities to question whether adding it to the NBA will be beneficial or not.
Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach JB Bickerstaff Warns NBA About Dangers of Sports Gambling
Before Cleveland played the Miami Heat, Bickerstaff appeared before the media and answered several questions. When the topic of Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton saying he feels like a prop came up, the Cavs head coach gave his opinion about the NBA dabbling into sports gambling.
In a video posted by Stefan Bondy on X:
Crazy. pic.twitter.com/nmCUV70X5T
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) March 21, 2024
“They got my telephone number and were sending me crazy messages about where I live and my kids and all that stuff. So it is a dangerous game and a fine line that we’re walking for sure,” Bickerstaff said. The Cavs coach also added that sports gambling brings more pressure to the players, coaches, and referees, and everybody involved in the NBA.
It’s not yet known whether measures will be put in place to protect personalities in the league from harm. Nevertheless, the NBA should look more into the issue to ensure no one is put in danger.
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