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Sports prediction markets will be covered in a new NBA and WNBA campaign examining the risks of putting money on game results.
The initiative will focus especially on young adults and caution that knowing basketball or another sport does not prevent losses.
According to the league announcement, the effort is being developed with the National Council on Problem Gambling. Its rollout is planned for the 2026-27 NBA season, with the exact timing still to be announced.
Financial warnings apply to bets and trades
Whether fans place a sportsbook wager or buy a prediction market contract, the leagues say participation should be for entertainment. Neither activity should be relied on to produce income.
Campaign materials will emphasize budgeting both time and money and recognizing when activity is becoming hard to manage. Potential consequences include financial strain, damage to personal relationships, and effects on mental health.
An accompanying advertisement will appear on television and social platforms through the leagues’ own outlets and their partners.
Michigan actions have already limited sports contract access
Michigan’s response to sports prediction markets has already affected what residents can trade. Agreements and court orders have restricted sports contracts available through Coinbase, Robinhood, and Kalshi, while customers retain access to Michigan-licensed sportsbooks.
On Oct. 7, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) detailed an agreement requiring Coinbase to end new sports contract offerings and close existing Michigan positions by 12 a.m. Eastern on Oct. 10.
Robinhood’s agreement to halt sports contracts required it to stop offering new sports contracts by the end of Sept. 9 and close remaining positions by Oct. 9.
Kalshi is subject to a preliminary injunction prohibiting it from offering, listing, or facilitating sports event contracts for anyone located in Michigan.
The restrictions on sports event contracts remain in place while related court challenges continue. The underlying question of whether Michigan can apply its gambling laws to federally registered event contracts remains disputed.
Statewide exclusion differs from blocking a single account
Customers of Michigan-regulated gambling websites can use account settings to restrict deposits, betting amounts, and playing time. They can also request self-exclusion directly through an individual operator.
A separate MGCB program, the Responsible Gaming Database, extends an exclusion across regulated providers. Applicants choose whether to exclude themselves from online casino gaming, online sports betting, or both, and select a one-year or five-year term.
The database rules do not allow participants to cancel their exclusion before that term finishes. Removal occurs automatically at the end of the selected period.
Applications can be completed in person at an MGCB office. Alternatively, a completed, notarized form can be sent by email or mail. The process can take time. The board says written confirmation of placement may take up to 45 days after submission, so applicants should not assume an application immediately blocks their accounts.
Operators may also extend an exclusion to affiliated casino properties or other gambling services. Applicants should review those policies as well as the category and duration selected through the state program.
Michigan helpline connects callers with local support
Residents seeking assistance can reach Michigan’s Problem Gambling Helpline by calling 1-800-GAMBLER. Support is available 24 hours a day for people experiencing gambling problems and those concerned about someone close to them.
The service provides information about counseling and treatment resources. Residents can also find responsible gambling information on warning signs and support options in Michigan.
