In the New York Times article Legalize and Regulate Sports Betting by Adam Silver, he proposes that gambling should be allowed on all professional sports events. Silver, who is the commissioner of the National Basketball Association uses solid evidence to justify his proposition.
In his article, Silver addresses the public regarding sports gambling. He is very supportive and adamant about the legalization of sports betting. His argument is that due to the already irresponsible betting and thriving industry of illegal gambling taking place, the government should convert it to legal regulated gambling on sporting events. His persuasive purpose is to justify his support legal sports gambling and open up other’s opinions to the new possibility. Overall Silver’s article is a persuasive one and is supporting the idea that legalized sports betting would be
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“There is no solid data on the volume of illegal sports betting activity in the United States, but some estimate that nearly $400 billion is illegally wagered on sports each year.” Silver supports the need for a regulation of the sports gambling industry by citing evidence of the size of the underground industry. This gives legitimacy to the articles relevance. He also provides evidence of successful sports gambling. “Outside of the United States, sports betting and other forms of gambling are popular, widely legal and subject to regulation.” This shows the reader that the idea of legalizing sports gambling is realistic and has been achieved in other parts of the world. Silver also address a common counter-argument to this particular issue. He states “Let me be clear: Any new approach must ensure the integrity of the game.” As the NBA’s commissioner this is Silver’s duty. He addresses those who may say by supporting an industry such as gambling, he is not treating the game of basketball with