N.B.A. Tightens Rules to Combat Sports‑Betting Exploits

New injury‑report deadline aims to curb insider information

In a decisive move to protect the integrity of its games, the National Basketball Association has announced a change to its injury‑reporting policy. Teams will now be required to submit their official injury updates closer to game tip‑off, reducing the window in which sensitive information can be leaked to bettors.

The league says the adjustment targets a known vulnerability that has been exploited by individuals attempting to profit from inside knowledge of player availability. By tightening the timing of reports, the N.B.A. hopes to eliminate the advantage that can be gained from last‑minute roster changes.

League officials emphasized that the new rule is part of a broader effort to safeguard the sport from illicit betting practices. “We are committed to preserving a level playing field for all participants—players, teams, and fans alike,” a spokesperson stated.

Teams will now have a 30‑minute window before the start of each game to file any injury updates, a significant reduction from the previous 24‑hour deadline. The change is expected to take effect at the beginning of the upcoming season.

Analysts predict that the tighter reporting schedule will make it more difficult for gambling syndicates to obtain real‑time information, thereby strengthening the league’s overall anti‑cheating measures.