ESPN Bet Shutdown: Sports Giant Exits Gambling Amid NBA Scandal

ESPN is shutting down its sports betting platform. The move comes amid a major NBA gambling investigation. Penn Entertainment and ESPN announced the early termination of ESPN Bet this week.

The shutdown is effective December 1, 2025. This decision ends a high-profile partnership years ahead of schedule. The sports betting app will be rebranded as theScore Bet.

Partnership Fails to Meet Key Targets

The original deal was struck in August 2023. It was planned for a ten-year term. ESPN licensed its brand to Penn for $150 million annually.

A performance clause allowed for early termination. Specific market share thresholds were not met. According to Reuters, the venture struggled to gain a top position against established rivals like DraftKings and FanDuel. The final payments to ESPN will cease this quarter.

Strategic Shift Follows League Turmoil

The exit follows a significant NBA gambling scandal. Federal authorities recently arrested current and former players. This created an awkward conflict for ESPN, which broadcasts NBA games while promoting its own betting platform.

ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro stated the company is pursuing other opportunities. Penn will now refocus its strategy on its iCasino business. The rebranded theScore Bet will leverage an existing media app with millions of users.

The swift shutdown of ESPN Bet marks a pivotal moment for sports media. This decision underscores the complex challenges that arise when broadcasters become betting operators. The ESPN Bet shutdown signals a cautious retreat from a rapidly evolving and controversial industry.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Why is ESPN Bet shutting down?

The partnership with Penn Entertainment is ending early. The venture failed to meet specific market share performance targets. Both companies mutually agreed to terminate the deal.

Q2: What will happen to my ESPN Bet account?

The platform will be rebranded as theScore Bet. User accounts and funds are expected to transition to the new brand. Penn Entertainment will continue to operate the service.

Q3: When will the shutdown happen?

The official shutdown and rebranding date is December 1, 2025. This timeline coincides with the expected launch of sports betting in Missouri. The service will continue operating until then.

Q4: Did the NBA scandal cause this?

While not directly cited, the timing is notable. The federal probe into NBA betting created a clear conflict of interest for ESPN. The company is now seeking different marketing avenues in the gambling space.

Q5: What is Penn Entertainment’s new plan?

Penn will refocus its digital strategy on its growing iCasino business. It will rebrand its sportsbook to theScore Bet. The company aims to connect the betting app with its popular media platform.