Charles Barkley Admits Using Bookie Due to FanDuel Betting Limits

Charles Barkley, an NBA Hall of Famer and TNT analyst, has revealed that despite the widespread availability of legal sports betting through platforms like FanDuel, he still relies on a personal bookie to place larger bets due to betting limits imposed by these sportsbooks. He recently placed a significant wager on the Toronto Maple Leafs to win a Game 7, which they lost, continuing their notorious history of Game 7 defeats. Barkley has openly discussed his extensive gambling history, including losing more than $25 million and his past of high-stakes betting, such as playing $25,000 blackjack hands and attempting to win $1 million in a single night. The limits set by legal sportsbooks often prompt high rollers like Barkley to seek alternative, unofficial channels, which may avoid the tax and regulatory oversight of licensed operators. Despite his losses and acknowledged gambling challenges, Barkley maintains his passion for betting and continues to engage in high-stakes wagers, highlighting the persistent appeal of bookies even as legal sports betting expands. His candid discussion underscores the tension between regulated sports betting limits and the betting habits of high-profile gamblers.