WNBA Faces New Controversy Over Gambling Scandal: Dave Portnoy Cites Pete Rose Case in Light of Angel Reese Bet
The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) finds itself facing another public relations headache after a video surfaced involving a personal bet between two of its star players.
The incident occurred when the WNBA’s official X account shared a brief clip showing athletes Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese lightheartedly discussing a $400 personal wager on the outcome of a game between the Atlanta Dream and the Dallas Wings. Because league regulations strictly prohibit players from participating in any form of sports gambling, the post was swiftly deleted.
Following a comeback victory where she posted 22 points and 12 rebounds, Reese jokingly remarked during her post-game press conference that she was waiting to collect her payout via Apple Pay.
Under the WNBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), betting on game outcomes—in any capacity—is considered a severe violation. Offenders face potential fines, suspensions, or permanent disqualification at the sole discretion of Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy took to X to weigh in on the matter, referencing baseball legend Pete Rose, who received a lifetime ban over gambling allegations. He expressed curiosity over how Commissioner Engelbert plans to handle the situation.
While severe disciplinary action like a lifetime ban remains unlikely for what appeared to be a friendly exchange between two rising stars, the WNBA released a statement clarifying that although the post was intended as lighthearted content, it was removed immediately. The league added that it has addressed the issue internally to remind all players of strict anti-gambling rules and prevent similar negative fallout in the future.