Category Archives: Gambling

Committee seeks new code of conduct for Premier League, other U.K. sports leagues to restrict the number of ads in stadiums.

Last Updated: Dec 22, 2023 6:00 AM ET Read Time: 4 min

A parliamentary committee in the United Kingdom wants more done to curb legal sports betting and gaming advertisements in the English Premier League.

A report from the Culture, Media, and Sport Committee released this week determined that the Premier Leagues decision to remove gambling ads from the front of match shirts by the end of the 2025-26 season will not significantly reduce the volume seen during matches.

The cross-party committee isnt calling for an outright ban, but it wants a new code of conduct for the Premier League and other sports leagues in the U.K. that will restrict ads in the stadium and provide more responsible gaming messages.

More should be done to shield children and people who have experienced problem gambling from what often seems like a bombardment of advertising branding at football and other sporting events, committee chair Dame Caroline Dinenage said in a BBC.com report.

The study found that just 7% of visible ads came from the jerseys of 10 matches researched. There were 7,000 gambling advertisements seen during six matches in the opening week of the campaign.

The Premier League responded to the committees report, saying it adheres to all gaming regulations and is now working with other sports and the government on the development of a new code for responsible gambling sponsorship.

The Premier League had deals last season with soccer betting sites that generated an estimated 60m. The clubs agreed in April to remove the front-of-shirt ads, which the committee commended in its request to do more.

Premier League clubs have come under fire for violations this year.

In August, the U.K. watchdog Advertising Standards Authority ruled that bet365 shared a social media marketing post targeted at a younger audience during a February match between Manchester United and Arsenal. The ASA hit XLMedias FreeBet.com in September for sharing an Instagram post of a Manchester United player under the legal age of players who can advertise.

Gambling ads have been a hot topic in the U.S. as well, and Canada is working on regulations against them.

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U.K. Parliamentary Committee Wants Premier League, Other Sports to Curb Gambling Ads - Covers

The man who oversees the regulation of the gambling industry in the state is leaving the job in January. Racing and Gaming Administrator, Brian Ohorilko took over the job 12 years ago after being with the Racing and Gaming Commission for eight years before that.

You know, Ive done a lot in this space and those 20 years, and for me, it was just, like an opportunity to pursue some other goals. And the timing felt right, both personally and professionally to do so at the end of this year, he says. He will take a job outside of state government. Im not quite ready to discuss some of those details, but I am excited and motivated for some new challenges, Ohorilko says. And I just cannot wait to get an opportunity to make a positive and professional impact.

Ohorilko says awarding new gambling licenses was one of the biggest issues he faced in his tenure. Dealing with some of the licensing decisions, those certainly have been the most challenging times when you have opportunities and for different communities and to look at whether or not a new casino would make sense, he says. So those were definitely some of the biggest challenges. He says more recently dealing with sports betting issues has been a challenge.

Ohorilko says the Racing and Gaming Commission in Iowas is a highly respected regulatory body, and a lot of that is due to the dedication and hard work put in by the Commission and staff over the years. The ability to understand all of the issues, clearly from all sides, being transparent about what that looks like when decisions are made, making sure that the public has an opportunity to provide input and share their feelings, Ohorilko says.

Ohorilko says the sports gambling issues are similar to when casino gambling was first introduced. These are things that as time moves on, will be items that well see, you know, regulations evolve and really each state will have what they feel comfortable with in terms of whats legalized, Ohorilko says. Ohorilko took over for Jack Ketterer, who retired after serving as administrator for much of the time since the start of gambling in the state.

The Racing and Gaming Commission appointed Deputy Director Tina Eick to serve as interim administrator. The Commission chair indicated they would expect to appoint a new administrator at their meeting in January.

Continued here:

Leader of state gambling regulation leaving for another job - Radio Iowa

Brazil's chamber of deputies voted yesterday (21 December) to approve Bill 3,626/2023, which will regulate sports betting. Igaming has also been added back into the bill after removal by the senate.

Brazils chamber of deputies has now voted to approve online gambling, giving the final green light for the market to be regulated in 2024.

Yesterday evenings vote on 21 December follows the senate plenary approving Bill 3,626/2023 on Tuesday 12 December last week.

Now that the Bill has been approved by the chamber of deputies, it will be passed onto the office of the president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, for final approval.

While the bill for Brazils online gambling regulation was previously approved by thechamber of deputies in September, the chamber was required to vote again to agree on the changes made to the bill by the senate last week.

Senator Angelo Coronel presented the bill to the senate on the 12 December. It contained the latest round of amendments followinginitial approval of the bill three weeks agoby Brazils Economic Affairs Commission.

The bill faced significant opposition in the senate, which saw three key highlights voted on.

In addition to the exclusion of igaming, the senate also voted to exclude virtual games and sports betting terminals. Also turned down was an amendment that would prohibit sports betting advertising in stadiums.

All taxation recommendations introduced by theEconomic Affairs Commission on 22 Novemberwere also approved.

This confirms that GGR (gross gaming revenue) will be limited to 12%, instead of 18%. The taxation on winnings has also been modified.

Bettors will be taxed only once a year, at a rate of 15% on net winnings. This exceeds the exemption threshold of BRL2,112 (339/394/$425).

Licensees will also be required to pay an initial fee of up to BRL30m. By doing so, they will be granted the right to operate up to five different abrands.

While the senate voted to remove igaming from the bill yesterday, the chamber of deputies retained the authority to overturn the exclusion.

In an interview with iGB earlier this month,Neil Montgomery, founder and managing partner of Brazilian law firm Montgomery & Associados, expected opposition to igaming from the senate.

This was especially the case for the Evangelical Parliamentary Front. During yesterdays vote, Deputy Eli Borges, a leader of the Evangelicals, highlighted that we are taking another step forward to involve Brazilian citizens in an unprecedented situation.

The president of the Chamber, Arthur Lira, countered Borges criticism by highlighting that the proposal was already approved by deputies in September and by the senate, where many aspects of the bill had already been compromised on.

Lira highlighted that postponing the vote does not prevent online games, but encourages lack of control and money laundering.

If we simply dont vote on the regulations, will games cease to exist? Will people stop playing, bets stop working and sponsoring teams, events and tournaments? No, said Lira.

He highlighted that gaming platforms already exist and need regulation. Here we are not increasing or decreasing, we are trying to regulate and give seriousness [to the sector] to avoid, for example, money laundering, he said.

At the request of the Evangelical Parliamentary Front, all mention of physical gaming or casinos have been left out of the text.

With the exclusion of online gambling however, it was projected that projected taxation revenue would fall short of what was originally expected.

With an initial target of BRL1.6bn, the loss of igaming would risk reaching less than half of that amount. This was estimated at BRL700m. That total is in glaring contrast to what was initially hoped for via taxes and licence fees.

In many ways, Neil Montgomery saw approval as almost inevitable. This is since the federal government is pushing for the approval to contribute to helping achieve zero fiscal deficit next year. Montgomery is referring to the Brazilian governments aim to hit a zero-deficit target in 2024.

Assuming the current bill is approved by the president, 36% of the tax will be directed to sports and 28% will go to tourism. Public safety initiatives will be given 14% and 10% each will go to education and social security.

The value of inspection fees is also expected to be changed. It will no longer be calculated based on the amount of premium paid. Rather, it will be based on lower levels of GGR.

Budding operators must also receive approval from the ministry of finance in order to operate in Brazil.

To qualify for a licence, operators must have a Brazilian partner that holds a minimum of 20% of the companys capital in the country. They also must have the appropriate cybersecurity systems in place.

The bill also outlines that operators will have to implement identification processes. It stipulates facial recognition technology as a potential method.

Unlicensed operators will not be allowed to advertise in Brazil. In addition, B2B partners will be prohibited from providing technology to unlicensed B2C companies. Bonuses will also be banned.

As weve covered extensively on iGB, Brazils legalised sports betting and casino story has been a long and winding one.

The final stretch of the journey kicked off in May when Brazils governmentannounced PM 1,182 for sports betting.

Da Silva gave the PM the all-clear. The president subsequentlysigned it into law in July.

Initially, the PM was not well received. Themain points of contentionwere around the 18% tax rate, advertising restrictions and ambiguous regulation around payments.

Following that, Bill 3,626/2023 was introduced which made amendments to PM 1,182.

The biggest change was the addition of online casino. This was approved by the chamber of deputies in September, with the tax rate still at 18%.

More here:

Brazil green lights online gambling regulation - igaming included - iGaming Business

Shift to Eco-Friendly Practices in Online Gambling

Published 4:38 pm Friday, December 22, 2023

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The online gambling industry, a behemoth in the digital entertainment sector, is undergoing a transformative shift. With the global focus pivoting towards sustainability, this sector is not behind in embracing eco-friendly practices. This movement is not just a fleeting trend; it represents a profound change in how online gambling platforms operate, interact with their environment, and contribute to a greener future.

In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the depths of this transition. Well look at innovative strategies that are being adopted, their impacts on both the environment and the industry, and what this means for Luckydreams enthusiasts and stakeholders alike. As we navigate through these changes, it becomes clear that this shift is not just about compliance or public image its about responsibility and foresight in a world increasingly conscious of its ecological footprint.

The digital nature of online gambling might suggest a minimal environmental impact. However, the reality is more nuanced. Energy consumption for server operations, electronic waste from outdated technology, and the carbon footprint of associated services are just some aspects that need addressing.

One of the major steps towards sustainability is the adoption of green server practices. By switching to energy-efficient servers and utilizing renewable energy sources, online casinos significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

Advancements in technology lead to rapid obsolescence of electronic equipment. Online gambling platforms are countering this by investing in longer-lasting, upgradable technology, thereby reducing electronic waste.

An indirect yet significant aspect of sustainability is promoting responsible gambling. Platforms are now more focused on ethical practices, ensuring that entertainment doesnt come at the cost of social well-being.

The integration of Virtual Reality (VR) technology offers an immersive experience while curbing the environmental impact associated with traditional, land-based casinos.

List of Eco-Friendly Initiatives in Online Gambling:

As online gambling ventures into eco-friendly practices, the repercussions are vast and varied.

Players are increasingly aware of their environmental impact. Platforms that adopt green practices are seen more favourably, enhancing user loyalty and attracting a socially conscious clientele.

Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are tightening environmental regulations. By adopting green practices, online gambling platforms stay ahead of legal requirements, avoiding potential fines and restrictions.

While initial investments in sustainable technology might be high, the long-term savings in energy costs and avoidance of regulatory penalties make it a financially sound decision.

The shift towards eco-friendly practices significantly boosts the industrys image. It breaks away from traditional stereotypes of gambling being a solely profit-driven enterprise, portraying it as a sector conscious of its global responsibilities.

Technological advancements in online gambling are not just shaping the way we play but also how the industry aligns with sustainability goals. Key to this evolution is the development of energy-efficient gaming software. Game developers are now focusing on creating platforms that are as thrilling as they are power-conscious. This new breed of gaming software captivates players while significantly cutting down on the energy required to run these platforms, a crucial step in reducing the industrys overall carbon footprint.

Another groundbreaking innovation is the adoption of blockchain technology. Traditionally, financial transactions associated with online aviator casino bonus have had a significant environmental impact, mainly due to the energy-intensive nature of data centres and traditional banking systems. Blockchain emerges as a game-changer, offering a transparent, secure, and efficient alternative. By streamlining transactions and reducing the need for energy-intensive data processing, blockchain is not just revolutionizing the security and transparency of online gambling, but also substantially diminishing its environmental impact.

Together, these technological advancements represent a major shift in the online gambling industry. By prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainable transaction methods, the sector is taking significant strides towards a more environmentally responsible future. This commitment to sustainability is reshaping the industrys image and setting a new standard for how online entertainment platforms can operate, harmonizing with our planets ecological needs.

Looking ahead, the integration of eco-friendly practices into online gambling is expected to grow. This will not only involve technological advancements but also a shift in corporate ethos and player expectations.

Online gambling companies are increasingly recognizing their role in contributing to a sustainable future, incorporating eco-friendly policies into their core business strategies.

As awareness grows, players are more likely to support platforms that align with their environmental values, driving further change within the industry.

The transition to eco-friendly practices in online gambling is a significant step towards a sustainable future. Its a journey of technological innovation, corporate responsibility, and player involvement. As this sector continues to evolve, its commitment to the environment will enhance its reputation and ensure its longevity in a world increasingly guided by ecological consciousness.

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Shift to Eco-Friendly Practices in Online Gambling - Smithfield Times Eco-Innovation in Online Gambling: A Green ... - Smithfield Times

In 2021, the State Senate passed a so-called comprehensive gambling legislation that would have established a state education lottery and permitted casino gambling at locations around Alabama.

The bill, tied to a constitutional amendment removing its prohibition on games of chance, would have green-lit casino-style games at facilities for then-existing operators in Macon, Greene Jefferson, Mobile and Houston Counties. It also would have allowed for the expansion of gaming at the existing Poarch Creek facilities in Elmore, Montgomery and Escambia Counties and allowed for an additional Poarch Creek facility in either Jackson or DeKalb County.

Although the State House of Representatives never fully considered the legislation, it was panned for creating a system that did not open it up to the free market to determine the casino operators.

During an interview with Mobile radio FM Talk 106.5 last week, State Rep. Chip Brown (R-Hollinger's Island) said while an effort to bring legislation to a vote in 2024 was underway, he supported a "free-market approach" that would open the casino licensing up for bidders.

"My understanding is legislation is still being worked on but there will be legislation this time," Brown said. "I support a free-market approach. I support opening it up. Let's bid on that. Let the best person come in and do it. But first and foremost, if you really look at what we're considering is letting the people vote on it."

"People have this idea at the end of the day, we're voting for gaming," he continued. "No, we're voting to create the best potential system that we could for the people of the state of Alabama, and that we're voting to let the people vote on that. We haven't had a vote on gaming vote since Don Siegelman was governor. That's crazy."

The Mobile County lawmaker said he anticipated having the opportunity to vote on a bill that included the free-market proposal.

"Right now, your push for a free-market situation do you think you'll see a bill and get to vote on a bill like that?" FM Talk 106.5's "Midday Mobile" host Sean Sullivan asked.

"I do," he replied. "That's the idea. You would have a lottery inside a comprehensive bill, but it would create what the lottery would do, where the payouts are, but you need a separate lottery commission to oversee the lottery. Then you would have the gaming commission that oversees the actual gaming table games, that sort of thing at facilities. And then you have sports betting, the other component of it."

Jeff Poor is the editor in chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email [emailprotected] or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.

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State Rep. Brown predicts vote on legislation with 'free-market - 1819 News

When Kentucky lawmakers approved sports betting, they set up the state's first problem gambling fund.

It's meant to bring awareness and treatment to those who might have a gambling disorder.

But as Kentucky editions June Lefler reports, advocates say more help is needed right now.

Boulware Mission in Owensboro, Kentucky, is a residential program for men.

Ron Slim Clark counsels these men on their drug and alcohol addictions.

But she also screens for and educates them on gambling problems.

The brain doesn't see it really much differently as far as the dopamine it releases than it does with using different substances.

So after that big win, however much that is few hundred, few thousand, you go back because you want to chase that dopamine feeling.

Then you want to go back and get some more math.

Yeah, you wouldn't chase that dopamine failing.

The National Council on problem Gambling estimates just 1% of adults in the U.S.. Have developed a gambling disorder and another 2 to 3% have a gambling problem.

John Arnett developed a gambling disorder in his fifties.

I was extremely lucky the first year I gambled.

And what I've learned from Gamblers Anonymous, that's the worst thing that can happen to someone.

Because if you lose a lot when you began your entire school and bought right away, whereas if you win, your interest will pay.

And the consequences of problem gambling are arguably as devastating as those from a substance use disorder.

The least that you have to lose is money.

The most you have to lose is reputation, livelihood, employment, freedom.

And more than that.

Of all the mental illnesses that are out there schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, gambling disorder has the highest rate of suicide.

One in five individuals with a gambling problem will attempt or complete suicide.

Arnett eventually found help through Gamblers Anonymous in Kentucky.

And you draw strength from attending those sessions and discussing your issues with people that are there.

Anyone with concerns can take a quick self-assessment online or call one 800 gambler, which is answered by counselors here in Kentucky.

24 seven.

The callers can be completely anonymous.

We can offer you just listening support, general.

Kind of try to let the person vent or talk about whatever it is that they're experiencing.

We can also provide them with tangible resources.

Including contacts for seven open gamblers, anonymous groups, and seven active certified gambling counselors in the state.

Since the advent of sports betting, calls to the hotline have increased.

So almost 300% increase this month from last year.

This month.

So December of 22 to 23, we've seen almost a three fold increase.

Sports betting isn't new, but legal Online gaming is likely expanding how people get treated.

A guy at one time who played in a major SEC school and became hurt and ended up really his life took a downward spiral and he was gambling quite a bit.

He told me, he said, I bet on every down in every game if you watch When we approached the Super Bowl soon there will be so many different things you can bet on.

Aside from the coin toss, who's going to win the coin toss?

Who's going to be the starting quarterback?

What their uniforms are going to look like?

Who's going to score first?

Who's going to make the most first downs?

There's just so many different ways.

When state lawmakers approved sports betting, they also set up the state's first ever problem gambling fund.

2.5% of sports betting revenue is earmarked for this fund.

That should total about $100,000 a month based on initial earnings.

But that money won't be available for quite some time.

And we don't anticipate that money will be available until well into 2024.

With contributions from the gaming industry.

The Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling is using its resources to train more counselors.

We are trying to increase the number of certified gambling counselors because we anticipate a wave of problem gambling surfacing in 2024 with the advent of the sports betting in the state.

Mike Stone was recruiting at a regional counseling conference in the fall.

It is as much a geographic concern as it is a numerical concern.

There's one counselor in eastern Kentucky.

There are three in Owensboro.

There are two in Louisville.

That means that there are none in Lexington.

There's none in northern Kentucky.

There's none in Bowling Green.

There's none in Paducah.

There's no.

But there's gambling all over the state.

For stone, this is a race against time.

While the money from the state isn't coming any time soon, sports betting is well underway and it's not slowing down.

For Kentucky Edition, I'm June Leffler.

Again, the problem Gaming Gambling Helpline is one 800 gambler.

Tomorrow, we'll bring you a third story on sports betting and how college campuses are talking about it.

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Kentucky Edition | Kentucky's First Problem Gambling Fund | Season 2 | Episode 145 - PBS

In one of the biggest soccer days of the year in England, the Premier League returns to action for Boxing Day this midweek for Matchday 19.

There are five matches on the day after Christmas, headlined by Manchester United hosting Aston Villa. Newcastle and Liverpool are both in action on Tuesday as well.

Meanwhile, the matchweek continues on Wednesday with three fixtures before a pair of games on Thursday. Manchester City returns from winning the FIFA Club World Cup with a match at Everton, and Arsenal welcomes West Ham to round out the games.

It is disappointing that all of the teams are not in action on Boxing Day, but the Sports Gambling Podcast Network still has you covered with our best bets and a full preview of the EPL.

Newcastle vs. Nottingham Forest This could be the perfect bounce-back spot for Newcastle at home. The new manager for Forest keeps me away here.

Bournemouth vs. Fulham Two of the most improved sides in the league meet in this one. With the spikes in form, it is hard to get a gauge on either team in this one.

This game isnt the first one that stands out on paper from an entertainment standpoint, which is what makes this a great spot for an under.

Whenever you get these relegation six-pointers, both sides can come out extremely cagey. They will focus on not giving up a crucial goal in such an important match.

You also have to look at the data since Chris Wilder returned as manager to Sheffield. In his four games in charge, this bet would have cashed in all of them, with the Blades averaging just 0.69 expected goals per 90 minutes, according to fbref.com.

As for Luton, the visitors rank in the Bottom 5 of the Premier League in xG, and big chances are created on the road.

Im not saying you have to watch this one, but it doesnt mean there isnt money to be made in a snoozer.

Burnley vs. Liverpool How does Liverpool respond after playing Arsenal this past weekend? I still cant trust Burnley, even in the perfect scheduling spot at home.

Manchester United vs. Aston Villa Bookmakers are starting to catch up with how bad United is. However, I still cant bet them or Villa away from home here.

Brentford vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers The odds are spot on here. I dont see any value on the side or total.

Chelsea vs. Crystal Palace Both teams to score almost made the article. Chelseas only clean sheets at home came against Sheffield and Luton. Palace has scored in all, but one road match and Eberechi Eze should be fit enough to start.

Yes, we are once again back on Everton here. Outside of the Toffees terrific form, City could have serious injury issues coming into this match.

In the game to win the Club World Cup, Rodri picked up a knock and couldnt finish the match. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne both were ruled out as well.

I understand that Pep Guardiola has plenty of options to fill in for those guys. However, those are his three most important players in the squad.

The Cityzens are also forced to come back from Saudi Arabia after celebrating and winning another trophy by going to a tough play to play in Goodison Park. This is an excellent spot for Sean Dyches team to get a result here.

Brighton vs. Tottenham Hotspur You would expect there to be goals in this match. Im staying away, but this could be a great watch for the neutrals.

Arsenal vs. West Ham Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, typically dominates these sides at home. I could see the Gunners being popular in parlays due to the heavy price to back them.

The rest is here:

Boxing Day Preview and Best Bets - SGPN

By Chen Kuan-pei and Jason Pan / Staff reporters

Authorities in Changhua County yesterday arrested four people accused of running an underground election gambling ring and confiscating NT$1.19 million (US$38,137).

After receiving a tip-off, county prosecutors coordinated with police to surveil and raid three locations, arresting the primary suspects at their residences, Changhua County Deputy Chief Prosecutor Huang Shu-yuan () said.

The suspects were offering odds and payouts for wagers on votes for presidential candidates, updating the odds based on the latest election news, Huang said.

Photo: Chen Kuan-bei, Taipei Times

Their actions are quite damaging, affecting impartiality for holding a fair election, she said.

The suspects face gambling charges under the Criminal Code and the Presidential and Vice Presidential Election and Recall Act ().

The suspects are a 62-year-old man surnamed Huang (), believed to be the leader of the operation, along with a man surnamed Peng (), 70, and two women, surnamed Yang (), 53, and Chen (), 45.

After questioning, Huang was released on bail of NT$100,000, while the other suspects were released on NT$30,000 bail.

The Ministry of Justice is providing a reward of NT$1 million for information leading to the arrest of underground betting rings with more than 40 members and with a betting pool of more than NT$1 million, the government announced earlier this month.

Informants could receive an additional NT$100,000 for every 10 percent increase in the number of members involved above 40 capped at NT$500,000.

Those reporting on an election gambling ring involving more than NT$5 million could receive an additional NT$50,000 for every additional NT$5 million in betting funds found, capped at NT$500,000.

People who report interference by foreign forces in the presidential election could receive a reward of up to NT$10 million. Informants would receive an additional NT$1 million for each additional person reported, up to a maximum of NT$20 million.

The Changhua County Prosecutors Office said that authorities would protect whistle-blowers identities in cases leading to arrests.

Comments will be moderated. Keep comments relevant to the article. Remarks containing abusive and obscene language, personal attacks of any kind or promotion will be removed and the user banned. Final decision will be at the discretion of the Taipei Times.

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2024 Elections: Changhua officials arrest four for election gambling -

Locks

NFL Saturday Prop Bets (Odds via DraftKings)

0.5 Unit Joe Mixon Over 18.5 Receiving Yards (-110)

0.5 Unit Chase Brown Over 18.5 Receiving Yards (-110)

0.5 Unit Pat Freiermuth Over 26.5 Receiving Yards (-110)

0.5 Unit Tanner Hudson Over 29.5 Receiving Yards (-110)

0.5 Unit Jaylen Warren Over 43.5 Rushing Yards (-110)

0.25 Unit Tyler Boyd Anytime TD (+250)

0.25 Unit Tanner Hudson Anytime TD (+550)

1 Unit James Cook Over 96.5 Rushing+Receiving Yards (-110)

0.75 Unit Easton Stick Over 32.5 Pass Attempts

0.25 Unit Josh Allen Anytime TD (+110)

0.25 Unit Josh Allen Over 0.5 Interceptions (+100)

NBA (0.5 Unit) Boston Celtics/LA Clippers Over 230.5 (-110; Odds via Caesars): 2:30 PM CT on Bally Sports SC

The Clippers are back home now where theyve compiled one of the best under records in the league. But odds makers are aware of that, and adjust this total down accordingly to where I think its time to buy in on the over. Six of LAs past seven games have gone over this total as their offense finds its groove, including three of the past four at Crypto. They should be fully healthy for this game, which theyll need against Bostons surging offense. Keep an eye on Jayson Tatums status today, but otherwise these two offenses that are top-10 in just about everything should pile up the points.

NCAA Football (0.5 Unit) Coastal Carolina vs San Jose State -9.5 (-110; Odds via Fanduel): 9:30 PM CT on ESPN

No team lost more players to bowl opt-outs and the transfer portal than Coastal Carolina did this month. That leaves them extremely shorthanded against a very good San Jose State team that finished the season on an absolute tear. The Spartans were left out of the Mountain West championship game because of a computerized tiebreaker, so I think they have some frustrations to take out today. Quarterback Chevan Cordeiro has a homecoming to Hawaii here, and should also be motivated to run it up on the undermanned Chanticleers. Coastal Carolinas only motivation here seems to be a free trip to Hawaii, so Ill back the squad with all their pieces that actually want to play a football game tonight.

No degenerates today.

Tiny Nick is 1844-1648 ATS (+85.2 Units) on his Locks since joining Zone Coverage.

Every day he will offer his Locks and Degenerate picks. Locks are the games hes confident in. Degenerates are entertaining but riskier picks.

Read more here:

Tiny Nicks Gambling Picks: 12/23 - Zone Coverage

MGM Resorts International has donated $360,000 to the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) to support gambling-related harms research.

The funding will support two research projects that will each last for two years that are designed to understand, prevent, and address the risks associated with gambling.

ICRG has been a key figure in responsible gambling and problem gambling research since its inception in 1996.

This deal with MGM Resorts is the latest for the firm as it looks to work alongside key operators in an attempt to protect players who suffer from gambling addiction.

For MGM Resorts, the partnership continues its ongoing commitment to educate 60,000 of its employees on the risks associated with gambling as well as its use of the its own responsible gaming program, GameSense.

The ICRGs research will be shared with other GameSense license holders and operators who will benefit from the findings.

Stephen Martino, MGM Resorts senior vice-president and chief compliance officer, said: These research projects are critical to the continued success of the industry and are in the best interest of our guests, company, employees, and the communities where we operate.

Were pleased to continue our financial support of the ICRG and its critical work around responsible gaming best practices.

Arthur Paikowsky, ICRG president, added: We salute MGM Resorts for supporting our research that will answer the many questions we have about the impact of gender on gambling disorder and address the health risks of casino employees.

The ICRG is very grateful for the companys long-standing and continuing support of the ICRG.

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MGM Resorts International donates six-figure sum to gambling harms research - EGR Global