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March Madness Betting to Hit Record Highs Amid Integrity Concerns
Sports BettingMarch 18, 2026·1 min read

March Madness Betting to Hit Record Highs Amid Integrity Concerns


The American Gaming Association (AGA) estimates that Americans will legally bet $3.3 billion on this year’s March Madness games, marking a 54% increase over the past three years. This surge reflects increasing consumer confidence in regulated wagering options.

The AGA reported that nearly half of the online sports betting ads Americans saw during the first two months of 2026 didn’t comply with state gambling regulations. The commercials from prediction markets lacked responsible gambling messaging required by law.

Kalshi is currently the most visible sports betting brand by digital ad impressions. A new annual national poll from Sacred Heart University found widespread concern about the expanding influence of sports gambling on collegiate sports. Nearly 66% are concerned college athletes may face pressure tied to betting surrounding games.

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Argus Riven

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Argus Riven

I've spent years at the tables — cash and tournaments — and just as long shaping poker copy behind the scenes: room reviews, bonus fine print, tournament notes. At PokerInsider I write the way I wish more sites would: clear structure, honest trade-offs, no hype. Whether you're new or already grinding, I care about what the offer actually costs you — rake, variance, and the fine print — and I treat responsible play as part of the job, not a footnote.

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