Expert anticipates continued increase in sports betting statewide

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) – The American Gaming Association expects $35 billion will be wagered on the NFL this season.

In Indiana, the amount of money bet on sports is increasing.

So far this year, $2.7 billion has been wagered on sports in the Hoosier state. That’s a 20% increase compared to this time last year.

It’s a trend that has some concerned.

“Sports betting, it mostly affects males from the ages of 18 to 35,” Chris Gray said. “The odds of winning are not great.”

Chris Gray with the Indiana Council on Problem Gambling says she’s not surprised by the industry’s growth.

She points to the easy accessibility as a problem.

“You can be in your pajamas, you can be sitting, you can actually be sitting in a meeting and betting, and no one would know,” Gray said.

The numbers show football made up 16% of all bets made in the Hoosier state in 2023.

Gray feels its return means more money will be coming in.

“It’s not just the ease of betting online, but it’s also being able to bet on aspects of the game as it’s being played,” Gray said.

Gray cautions those betting, even people who are just placing a few bucks down for fun.

“Set a limit of how much you want to spend, and once you spend that amount, walk away,” Gray said.

The state of Indiana does make money off sports gambling.

According to the Indiana Gaming Commission’s website, the state collects anywhere between $3-5 million every month in taxes.

Gray says part of that money goes toward funding organizations helping with gambling addiction, however, she says it’s not enough.

She adds there are lots of places to seek treatment, including the list below: