Key Moments:
- The Sports Betting Alliance has selected Joe Maloney, a former executive of the American Gaming Association, as its new president and CEO.
- Jeremy Kudon will shift to the role of chairman, concentrating on legislative strategy after serving eight years as president.
- The leadership transition occurs as SBA members and industry stakeholders confront disagreements over the role of prediction markets.
Leadership Transition at the Sports Betting Alliance
The Sports Betting Alliance has announced a pivotal leadership change, appointing Joe Maloney as its president and chief executive officer. Maloney, who previously held an executive position at the American Gaming Association (AGA), steps into the role as the alliance faces heightened debates regarding prediction markets within the gaming sector.
Jeremy Kudon, the outgoing president, will remain with the organization as chairman, focusing on legislative strategy after leading the group for eight years. The Sports Betting Alliance’s roster includes notable operators such as bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, Fanatics, and FanDuel.
Industry Endorsements and Background
“We are thrilled to welcome Joe as president of the Sports Betting Alliance,” Kudon said. “His deep understanding of gaming policy, proven leadership in public affairs, and established relationships make him an ideal leader during this crucial time for our industry.”
An AGA spokesperson congratulated Maloney, saying he was a “valued member” of the association’s leadership team and wishing him “continued success in this next chapter.”
Maloney assumes responsibility for guiding the alliance’s strategic collaborations and engaging with operators, regulators, and lawmakers to maintain compliance and integrity among SBA members. Before joining the alliance, he served as vice president of public affairs for the Washington Commanders.
Focus and Objectives for SBA
“I’m honored to step into this role with the Sports Betting Alliance during such a critical moment for the industry,” Maloney said. Legal, regulated sports betting and iGaming, he added, “are delivering meaningful consumer protections, enhanced integrity monitoring and economic benefits to states, bringing activity once confined to the shadows into the light. I look forward to working with stakeholders throughout the country to continue strengthening the industry and ensuring its long-term success.”
Prediction Markets Create Internal Challenges
The Sports Betting Alliance is currently addressing contrasting viewpoints among its members regarding prediction markets. FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics are either actively engaged in or planning to participate in this emerging segment, whereas BetMGM stands in opposition, and bet365 has yet to declare a stance.
| Member | Position on Prediction Markets |
|---|---|
| FanDuel | Active/involved or plans involvement |
| DraftKings | Active/involved or plans involvement |
| Fanatics | Active/involved or plans involvement |
| BetMGM | Opposed |
| bet365 | No public position |
Rising Tensions with the American Gaming Association
Last month, internal divisions intensified between the Sports Betting Alliance and the American Gaming Association, highlighted by the resignation of FanDuel and DraftKings from the AGA due to disagreements over contracts involving sports events. The AGA has expressed opposition to prediction markets and voiced concerns about partnerships connecting these markets with sports leagues.
AGA CEO Bill Miller called the NHL’s deals with Kalshi and Polymarket “deeply troubling” and “dangerous.” The NHL is the first major U.S. sports league to partner with a prediction market.
Maloney said he looks forward to collaborating with stakeholders nationwide “to continue strengthening the industry and ensuring its long-term success.”
- Author
Daniel Williams
