March Madness will be upon Pennsylvania sports betting next week as the busiest wagering month on the sports calendar begins with men’s and women’s college basketball conference tournaments tipping off.
It also is the start of Problem Gambling Awareness Month. To mark the kickoff, one major sports betting company plans to help in a big way.
BetMGM announced Friday a new pledge to prominently feature responsible gaming messages in its marketing and advertising campaigns, starting Wednesday, March 1.
Responsible gaming messaging will be featured within the BetMGM Pennsylvania sportsbook mobile app and within BetMGM advertisements. That will range from billboard marketing to television and print and radio ads across the U.S. and Canada.
Additionally, messages and banners will be incorporated into BetMGM's digital and social platforms, as well as on property signage within its retail sportsbooks.
The Aim of BetMGM Messaging
The messages were developed in partnership with GameSense, an industry-leading program that focuses on positive, transparent and proactive conversations with players about how to gamble responsibly.
“We are committed to leading the industry in promoting responsible gaming, which is why we're announcing this unprecedented pledge to spotlight responsible gaming messaging in our advertising,” said Adam Greenblatt, the CEO of BetMGM, in a news release.
“As the legalized sports betting and online gaming industry continues to expand, it is vital that we not only equip players with tools and resources for how to play in a responsible and safe manner, but that we also make a significant commitment to showcasing responsible gaming in our advertising.”
Selection Sunday for both the men’s and women’s college basketball tournaments will be on March 12. Both tournaments tip off with the first four to start on March 14 and 15, respectively.
“With the continued growth of sports betting and iGaming, it's imperative that our industry remain committed to supporting the best interests of our guests and customers,” said Bill Hornbuckle, the CEO and president of MGM Resorts. “MGM Resorts is the premier leader in gaming entertainment, and GameSense has helped us set the standard for promoting responsible gaming and prioritizing player health.”
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If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.