Sports Betting: Myths vs. Facts
Published: December 29, 2025
Nowadays, it’s a challenge to discern what information is and isn’t real. In the sporting and gambling world, hundreds of myths are being circulated to maintain player engagement. It’s important to question the things you hear to avoid consequences that can have a negative impact on your personal life. That’s why Pause Before You Play has highlighted five common sports betting and gambling myths from West Virginia’s Problem Gambling Help Network to help safeguard your mental health, financial stability, and personal relationships from potential betting harms.
Myth #1 — The more you gamble, the more likely you can win it all back.
Fact — Previous money spent has no impact on your chances of winning.
If this myth was true, sportsbooks would be out of business. Sports betting and gambling games are designed to profit from players, not benefit them. Having this mindset can put you on a slippery slope, leading to financial instability or other gambling-related harms. Instead, set limits on the amount you spend on betting to protect you from continuing to lose.
Myth #2 — Feeling lucky increases your chance of winning.
Fact — There is no “luck” involved, only randomized chance.
Many bettors default to the idea of luck when logic has failed them. While it appears harmless, relying on a theoretical idea for success is how people surrender their control when engaging with betting or gambling. While luck remains unproven, the randomness of gambling is undeniable.
Myth #3 — Casual betting is “safer”.
Fact — Many people with gambling disorders do not play every day.
Whether you play sporadically or regularly, there is no set duration of time spent gambling that suddenly labels you with a “gambling disorder”. No matter how much or how little time you spend on these platforms, your brain is still experiencing addictive releases of dopamine causing any amount of engagement to put you at risk of developing a gambling disorder.
Myth #4 — The more you know about sports, the better you’ll be.
Fact — Knowledge does not guarantee success.
Background knowledge of a particular game or team does not improve your chances of winning. While some level of knowledge is generally recommended before engaging in sports bets, there is no guarantee that your chances of winning are greater. Keep in mind, these bets are always unpredictable.
Myth #5 — Self-control is enough.
Fact — Many bettors report becoming restless or irritable when they aren’t playing.
No matter how mentally tough you are, anyone can be at risk of developing a gambling disorder. Gambling can impact your mental and physical well-being, making it hard to recognize the risks and know when to stop. If you plan on sports betting, it’s important to have outside support like family members or tools to restrict your usage and help you set limits on the time and money spent gambling.
If you think you might be at risk for developing a gambling disorder, consider taking the free two-minute quiz to evaluate your relationship with gambling and gauge your risk. Pause Before You Play also has a list of various resources and anonymous support groups for individuals who might need help.