Official betting refers to wagers that are settled based on stats and other information that is obtained from a sport’s governing body. This form of sports betting has become very popular in recent years, and is an integral component of regulated sports markets across the US. But there are some important questions about official betting that need to be answered.

How is this data collected?

Almost every league has an agreement with one of two real-time sports data providers, Sportradar and Genius Sports. Leagues’ relationships with these firms have expanded alongside the appetite for legal sports betting in the United States. In fact, some leagues have even begun to establish their own sportsbooks inside stadiums.

While these sportsbooks are a welcome addition to the fan experience, they also raise significant concerns about the integrity of college-age students and the integrity of NCAA competition. In fact, a survey by the NCAA found that 10% of Division I respondents reported being harassed online or in person by people with gambling interests. The problem is so severe that the NCAA has begun a campaign to educate fans about responsible sports betting.

There are some key differences between the rules that govern official betting and those that govern traditional sports betting. For example, a player who bets on a game in which they are playing or participating is in violation of Rule 21, publicly posted on dugout walls that states: “Any individual who bets any sum whatsoever on any baseball game in connection with which he has a duty to perform shall be declared permanently ineligible.” This rule doesn’t apply to fans, who can place bets with impunity, but it does prohibit players and other individuals from being associated with sportsbooks.