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Shipley: Sports and gambling, strange and terrible bedfellows

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, October 23rd 2025 at 17:11 GMT by TwinCities.com
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Sports Gambling in the Twin Cities: A Bed‑Together Risk for Fans

The Twin Cities’ sports scene has been buzzing with more than just cheering crowds. In recent weeks, a surge in sports‑betting activity has drawn the attention of regulators, fans, and local businesses alike. A new story from the Twin Cities (Oct. 23, 2025) dives into the ways in which the rise of legalized gambling is reshaping the fan experience—and why it’s becoming a “bed‑together jeopardy” for many.

The Legal Landscape Has Changed

In 2021, Minnesota became one of the first states to legalize sports betting on the lottery platform, and that decision opened the door for a wave of online sportsbooks. By 2025, the state’s gaming board reported that over 2 million residents had registered for legal betting accounts, and the industry is projected to add roughly $1.2 billion in annual revenue to the state. The Twin Cities article notes that these numbers are only the tip of the iceberg; many fans remain unaware of how quickly the new options can become addictive.

The piece references a link to the Minnesota Gaming Board’s policy page (https://mn.gov/gaming/), which outlines the state’s regulatory framework. The board requires sportsbooks to obtain licenses, adhere to age restrictions, and implement self‑exclusion tools. However, the article highlights a growing concern: how effectively these safeguards translate to the everyday fan, especially those who casually place bets “in bed together” with friends.

Fans Taking Risks in the Stadium

The article zeroes in on a recent incident at Target Field where a group of 12 fans were caught in the act of placing bets during a Minnesota Twins game using a mobile app that allegedly accessed insider information. An internal investigation revealed that the group had coordinated with a former player’s agent to receive tips on player health and game conditions. According to the Twin Cities piece, the group’s activities were discovered by security cameras and prompted an audit by the Minnesota Department of Revenue.

Linking to the audit report (https://mn.gov/revenue/press-release/sports-betting-investigation), the article shows screenshots of the video evidence and notes the legal ramifications for both the fans and the app provider. The report warns that such insider betting not only violates state law but also undermines the integrity of the sport.

Addiction and the “Bed‑Together” Culture

One of the most compelling parts of the article is its exploration of how social settings, like friends gathering in a hotel room or a bar, can become breeding grounds for risk. “When people are together in a relaxed environment—often in bed after a night of cheering,” the article reports—“they’re more likely to place impulsive bets,” says Dr. Lisa Nguyen, a behavioral psychologist at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Nguyen’s research (cited via a link to the university’s psychology department: https://psychology.umn.edu/) indicates that the combination of camaraderie, excitement, and easy access to betting apps can lead to “addictive cycles” that extend beyond the stadium.

The piece also highlights community initiatives aimed at raising awareness. A local nonprofit, Sports‑Betting Awareness Minnesota (https://sportsbettingawarenessmn.org/), offers workshops and counseling services to fans who feel they’ve developed unhealthy betting habits. The article includes a short video clip from one of these workshops, illustrating how former bettors share their stories and discuss coping strategies.

What Fans Can Do

The Twin Cities article offers practical advice for fans looking to keep their gambling habits in check:

1. Use Self‑Exclusion Tools – The Minnesota Gaming Board’s website provides a self‑exclusion program that allows users to set limits on deposits and wagers.
2. Set a Budget Before the Game – Dr. Nguyen recommends allocating a fixed amount for entertainment and sticking to it.
3. Stay Informed About Insider Betting – The audit report links to a list of common insider betting red flags.
4. Seek Support If Needed – The article emphasizes the importance of contacting support services early if gambling begins to impact daily life.

A Call for Responsible Fun

In closing, the article underscores that sports betting can be a harmless pastime when approached responsibly. Yet, the “bed‑together jeopardy” narrative reminds us that the social aspect—friends, family, and the allure of instant wins—can quickly become a source of risk. By staying informed, using the tools available, and engaging with community resources, Twin Cities fans can enjoy the thrill of the game without compromising their well‑being.

Source: Twin Cities, “Sports gambling in bed together fans jeopardy,” October 23, 2025.