Ohio Takes a Stand: Banning NCAA Player Prop Bets for Athlete Protection

Following a request from the NCAA, the OCCC has moved to prohibit wagering on prop bets centered around individual collegiate athletes’ performances. This directive, aimed at safeguarding student-athletes from undue pressure and maintaining the integrity of collegiate sports, mandates Ohio sportsbook operators to comply by March 1.

Safeguarding the Integrity of Collegiate Sports

Prop bets, which allow wagers on specific outcomes such as a player’s scoring or yardage in a game, have been identified as a potential threat to the well-being of student-athletes and the fairness of college sports competitions. The NCAA’s concern, echoed by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and articulated in a formal request to the OCCC, highlights the vulnerability of collegiate athletes to harassment and the potential for manipulation of game outcomes.

NCAA President Charlie Baker commended the OCCC’s resolution, emphasizing the importance of this measure in protecting student-athletes from the negative impacts of sports betting. “Today’s decision…marks a significant step in the protection of student-athlete well-being and game integrity,” Baker stated, acknowledging the commission’s swift action in response to these concerns.

Responding to the Risks

The decision to ban player-specific prop bets on collegiate events is not unique to Ohio but aligns with a growing trend among states with legal sports betting frameworks to limit such wagers.

The OCCC’s Matt Schuler underscored the rationale behind this move, citing the potential for bettor harassment of athletes, solicitation of insider information, and the risk of manipulated game events as key factors.

Legislative Backdrop and Financial Context

Ohio’s proactive stance is further reinforced by legislation passed in 2023, aimed at deterring threats against athletes by banning individuals involved in such actions from sports gaming within the state.

The financial impact of prop bets on NCAA players is notable, with the OCCC estimating that Ohio sportsbooks received over $104 million in bets of this nature in 2023, accounting for a small but significant portion of the total betting volume.

Our Comment on the Article

The OCCC’s decision to ban NCAA player prop bets in Ohio is a commendable step towards prioritizing the mental health and safety of student-athletes over the commercial interests of sports betting.

This move not only reflects a growing awareness of the potential harms associated with certain types of sports wagering but also sets a precedent for other states to consider similar protections. By placing the well-being of young athletes at the forefront, Ohio is championing a responsible and ethical approach to sports betting, one that other jurisdictions would do well to emulate.