NBA Tightens Cell Phone Rules to Prevent Gambling Misuse
The NBA is tightening up its regulations governing player and coach use of cell phones and social media during games due to growing concerns about gambling and game integrity.
Official NBA ball. NBA to further restrict the use of cell phones during games.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The rule change follows the recent high-profile incident involving Jontay Porter, a former Toronto Raptors player, who received a lifetime ban from the NBA after violating the league's gambling policies by sharing insider information and placing bets on games. His case led to questions about the potential misuse of confidential information, which prompted the NBA to take action to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Players and Coaches Banned from Phones During Games
The NBA is reportedly working closely with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) to introduce stricter limits on the use of cell phones and social media during games. This policy will prohibit all phone use by players and coaches from the start of a game until its conclusion, with no exceptions. The previous rule, in place since 2009, allowed players limited phone access until 45 minutes before tip-off and after post-game media interactions. However, many players ignored the rule, and some were even caught using their phones during games.
The primary goal of the new policy is to ensure that players and coaches remain fully focused on the game while also addressing concerns about gambling. In Porter’s case, he provided insider information, such as his injury status and expected playing time, that gave gamblers an unfair advantage.
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As part of the revised regulations, every team will now assign a designated staff member to act as a contact person during games. This individual will be responsible for handling any urgent messages for players and coaches, ensuring that no unauthorized phone use occurs. It is hoped that this will close any loopholes that might allow sensitive information to leak.
While some players and coaches recognize the importance of these changes for maintaining fairness, others feel the restrictions might be excessive. Despite the mixed reactions, the NBA remains committed to keeping the sport free from external influences, particularly those related to sports betting. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has said that the new rules are essential if the league is to protect its players and coaches from situations where outside interests could attempt to manipulate or influence them.
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