Sorsby gambling addiction casts light on issue that could affect thousands of college athletes
Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby has stepped away from the team to seek treatment for a gambling addiction, highlighting a growing concern about compulsive gambling among college athletes. With the rise of legal sports betting and name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, experts warn that thousands of male college athletes may be at risk. The NCAA estimates around 6,000 athletes meet diagnostic criteria for problem gambling annually, yet stigma and eligibility rules discourage many from seeking help. Experts urge the development of confidential support systems and educational programs to address the issue.
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Open this photo in gallery:Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby watches the school's NFL football pro day last month in Lubbock, Tex.Annie Rice/The Associated PressShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountIn the eight years since the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way for legal sports gambling across the country, the bad headlines for college sports have picked up.Coaches being tainted by scandals at their programs. The social media pressure on athletes to perform for gamblers. The arrests and indictments of players, former players and associates betting on the outcome of games few remember. The back-and-forth over whether to allow college athletes, who can now earn millions, to bet on pro or college sports.
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