SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Speaking at a public forum in New York City, former NBA Commissioner David Stern has backed the stance of current NBA boss Adam Silver with regards to legalising US sports betting.
Stern who led as NBA Commissioner for over 20 years (1983 – 2014), stated that it was time for the US government to rethink its stance on sports betting, and for stakeholders to begin to the agenda implement regulation on a federal level, as opposed to legislation implemented state by state.
“I’m with Commissioner Silver,” Stern said. “There should be federal legislation that says, ‘Let’s go all the way’ and have betting on sports. It’s OK. It’s going to be properly regulated.”
Stern who whilst in charge of the NBA had formerly opposed US sports betting along with other major US pro leagues, is regarded as one of the most influential voices in US sports and governance.
His pro betting stance will be welcomed by industry supporters, who have had little to cheer about in 2015.
To date the NBA has been the most supportive US pro league of legalised sports betting. Its Commissioners pro stance on the matter has been supported by several owners of NBA franchises that have publically stated that legalised betting would aid US basketball on business terms.
