WNBA removes betting-related video featuring Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese after backlash
The league deleted a humorous social media post about players' wager following criticism.
1WNBA's betting video sparks controversy
The WNBA shared a video featuring Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese discussing a $400 wager during All-Star weekend. While intended as humor, the league removed the post after backlash. Officials stated players receive annual training about gambling policies, which strictly prohibit betting on league games.
2Players' wager conversation revealed
Bueckers and Reese openly discussed their $400 bet before the All-Star game, with Bueckers joking 'This is how the rich stay rich.' Reese confirmed the agreement saying 'Bet. I'm standing on it.' Their conversation, initially shared by the league's official account with laughing emojis, quickly went viral and drew criticism.
3WNBA's gambling policies
WNBA rules explicitly prohibit players from betting on league games. The commissioner can impose penalties ranging from fines to lifetime bans for violations. However, the league announced no disciplinary action in this case, stating the matter was handled internally and would serve as a reminder about gambling policies.
4League's official statement
The WNBA acknowledged its social media post 'missed the mark' and was removed shortly after publication. While emphasizing players receive regular training about gambling prohibitions, the league said it would use this incident to reinforce policies with the involved players, warning that even joking about betting can have consequences.
5Broader gambling investigations in basketball
This incident coincides with increased scrutiny of gambling in professional basketball. In November 2025, the NBA requested documents from several teams including the Lakers amid a federal investigation. At least 10 Lakers staff cooperated with authorities, while Jontay Porter received a lifetime ban for limiting his participation for betting purposes.
6Social media reactions
The WNBA's decision to remove the video sparked widespread discussion on social media. Some users accused the league of double standards, while others argued professional athletes should avoid such jokes. The incident reignited debates about athletes' social media use and professional conduct standards in the sports world.
7Sports betting industry growth
As sports betting expands, leagues face growing challenges in maintaining integrity. The WNBA's response highlights how sports organizations navigate this new landscape. With sports betting legalization spreading across the US, such incidents are becoming more frequent, pushing leagues to implement stricter measures.
8Professional sports ethics
This incident underscores evolving expectations for professional athletes' conduct. The WNBA's quick action demonstrates the importance of reputation management for sports organizations. Such cases provide clearer understanding of how athletes' public statements and social media activity can impact their careers and league policies.
Original article: ReadWrite — WNBA, bahis içeren video nedeniyle tepkiler üzerine paylaşımı sildi