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Sportsbooks Restrict Winning Bettors Amid March Madness Boom

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

March Madness has sparked interest in sports betting, with many casual bettors in office pools.
David Hill, a journalist, discussed challenges faced by successful gamblers on the Settle In podcast.
Hill described sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings as using a "ban-or-bankrupt model" that sidelines winning bettors to protect profits.
He noted his own experience of being restricted to minimal bets despite not wagering large sums.

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Story summary

March Madness has sparked interest in sports betting, with many casual bettors in office pools.
David Hill, a journalist, discussed challenges faced by successful gamblers on the Settle In podcast.
Hill described sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings as using a "ban-or-bankrupt model" that sidelines winning bettors to protect profits.
He noted his own experience of being restricted to minimal bets despite not wagering large sums.