NBA’s Exclusive Deal With FanDuel A Sign Of Things To Come
By Anthony F. Irwin
@AnthonyIrwinNBA
Getty Images
Fantasy leagues have altered the way fans watch sports. It’s become nearly impossible to separate discussions about games from the statistical referendums based on one’s cleverly-named fantasy team.
Now, with the NBA announcing an exclusive deal with FanDuel, that discussion will become all the more prevalent. The move shows commissioner Adam Silver’s open-mindedness and could be a sign of things to come.
FanDuel CEO and co-founder Nigel Eccles spoke to the interest fantasy drives across all major sports in an interview with ESPN, but that the NBA schedule could be a grind for many (cut to Derrick Rose and Greg Popovich nodding resoundingly). Eccles said one-day fantasy leagues shorten that commitment and would drive interest in the league. As fans take part in such one-day leagues, the interest could also grow in season-long leagues as well.
Silver also predicted that one day, gambling on the NBA could very well be legal. Today’s news is an important first step in that direction. Say what you will about how betting could affect games, but gambling drives interest. Take a look at March Madness, for example, when fans flock from all over the country to centralized areas to bet on the games. Try to find a work environment that doesn’t take part in some bracket pool every year.
Incentivize fans with their wallets, and the game becomes more interesting. Tuesday’s news was exciting not only because of what it means for fantasy sports, but what it might lead to down the road. The NBA is already one of, if not the fastest-growing sports worldwide.
Between that, the talk of lottery reform and his handling of the Donald Sterling saga, the major takeaway is how perfect Silver has been in his role as commissioner.
Anthony F. Irwin is an NBA, NFL, MLB and NCAA Football contributor for www.Rantsports.com. Follow him on Twitter, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google. Send him an email at .
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