Following recent arrests linked to a sports gambling investigation, a former NFL player with a history of gambling addiction suggests that this might be just the beginning of a much larger issue.
Last Thursday saw the arrests of Chauncey Billups, Terry Rozier, and Damon Jones. Art Schlichter, whose own football career was derailed by gambling problems, believes these indictments could be the “start of something big,” potentially involving many more players, especially at the college level.
Schlichter, speaking on OutKick, pointed out that college athletes often don’t earn as much as NBA players, making them potentially more vulnerable to the lure of gambling, even for small amounts. He expressed concern about smaller colleges and universities where players might be betting on games for just a few hundred dollars, indicating how widespread the issue could become. “I think a lot of players are shivering right now worrying about this,” he said.
However, Schlichter also voiced confusion about why professional athletes, who earn significant salaries, would risk their careers by getting involved in sports gambling. He questioned whether addiction or a sense of invincibility might be factors, stating he was shocked that they would take such risks.
The charges against Billups, Rozier, and Jones include conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. In response, the NBA has placed Billups and Rozier on leave and pledged to cooperate with authorities.
Schlichter’s own experience with gambling started during his time at Ohio State University. His addiction led to legal troubles throughout his adult life, including a 10-year prison sentence for theft and public indecency charges related to gambling. He has admitted to stealing around $1.5 million to fund his gambling habits and pay off debts.
The NBA has emphasized that the integrity of the game is their top priority. The league’s swift action to place the accused on leave reflects their commitment to addressing the allegations seriously.
The situation raises several questions about the prevalence of sports gambling among athletes and the factors that might contribute to it. While the investigation is ongoing, Schlichter’s comments highlight the potential scope of the problem and the need for increased awareness and preventative measures, especially among young athletes who may be more susceptible to the risks associated with gambling. It also brings up the debate of how leagues should handle athletes who are caught in the web of gambling, and if more resources are needed to help athletes with potential gambling addictions.
