The American Gaming Association (AGA) forecasts that Americans will wager approximately $3.1 billion on men’s and women’s college basketball tournaments in 2025. This represents a significant rise from the $2.7 billion bet in 2024. The increase reflects the growing popularity of sports betting across the nation, particularly around major sporting events like March Madness.
Expansion of Legal Sports Betting Across U.S. Drives Public Trust and Increased Participation
According to the AGA, the rapid growth in sports betting is closely tied to its expanding legality across the U.S. As of 2025, 38 states and Washington D.C. have legalized sports wagering. Since the repeal of PASPA in 2018, sports betting has grown into a mainstream form of entertainment, with 75% of Americans supporting its legalization in their home states.
Americans Expected to Wager Over $3 Billion on March Madness as Legal Betting Gains GroundThe 2024 American Attitudes Survey by the AGA revealed that public perception of sports betting continues to improve. A remarkable 90% of respondents now view betting as an acceptable form of entertainment. This growing trust is seen as a major driver behind the increasing number of participants and the record-breaking financial projections.
March Madness Boosts Basketball Betting and Promotes Responsible Gambling Awareness During National Problem Gambling Month
March is a pivotal month for basketball betting due to the NCAA men’s and women’s tournaments, known collectively as March Madness. These tournaments are major highlights on the U.S. sports calendar and consistently draw high betting volumes. Joe Maloney, SVP of strategic communications at AGA, emphasized the excitement around this period and the expanding opportunity for fans to bet legally and responsibly.
In conjunction with increased betting, March is also a key time for promoting responsible gambling. The AGA’s Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly. the campaign continues throughout the month, emphasizing five core principles including setting a budget and keeping calm regardless of outcomes. March also marks National Problem Gambling Month, highlighting the industry’s commitment to raising awareness and providing support for responsible gaming.