Prediction Markets Set to Revolutionize Sports Broadcasting and Gambling, Says NBA Star Tristan Thompson
NBA star Tristan Thompson envisions prediction markets as the next evolution of sports gambling, integrated directly into broadcasts to enhance viewership. These markets allow fans to speculate on outcomes with dynamic wagering options, including the ability to exit bets before event resolution, encouraging sustained engagement throughout the game rather than just watching the final scoreboard.
The approach is gaining traction among major sports leagues and companies. The UFC's parent company signed a multi-year deal with Polymarket to introduce a fan prediction scoreboard into UFC broadcasts, displaying global sentiment and fight forecasts. Similarly, the NHL became the first major professional league to partner on a multi-year deal with Polymarket and Kalshi to integrate prediction markets. In addition, Robinhood has started offering sports-related prediction markets this year.
In the broader industry, DraftKings acquired Railbird in October, with Railbird’s platform focusing on finance, culture, and entertainment prediction markets. This expansion beyond traditional sports indicates a growing market for diverse speculative platforms.
The popularity of sports gambling remains strong, with Americans wagering $99 billion through commercial sportsbooks in the first eight months of 2025, reflecting a 12% year-over-year increase according to the American Gaming Association. However, courts are currently assessing how prediction markets fit within state gambling regulations, as Thompson stresses these markets differ significantly from ordinary bookmakers and could drive higher sports ratings.
Thompson specifically supports Basketball.fun, a platform that allows users to speculate on NBA talent, noting a growing blend of fantasy sports with trading card game elements as seen in unaffiliated projects like Football.fun. Overall, prediction markets are expanding rapidly from political forecasting to sports betting, with platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi gaining broader adoption by leagues and sports broadcasts alike.
