PSAB NA: ‘We cannot be bystanders’ on gambling harm prevention
The inaugural members of the Pro Sport Advisory Board North America have all enlisted their support in order to proactively prevent problem gambling from affecting the world of sports, with one board member explaining that it’s “a necessity” that the issue is addressed.
They were the words of Justin Bokmeyer, who is currently with the Brooklyn Nets (NBA) as director of basketball operations.
He comes from Major League Soccer where he spent two years as the first general manager of MLS NEXT, the top youth player development program in North America. Bokmeyer previously worked within the NBA’s international basketball operations department, where he helped grow the NBA Academy program and played a key role in the development of the Basketball Africa League.
Prior to beginning his career in the NBA, Bokmeyer spent two years as the director of lacrosse operations at West Point. The El Cajon, California native served in the United States Army for 11 years on active duty, including as a platoon leader and company commander.
Bokmeyer earned his Master of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University after attaining his bachelor’s degree in business management and legal studies at West Point, while serving as captain of the Black Knights’ lacrosse team. He played two years of professional lacrosse for the Denver Outlaws of Major League Lacrosse.
That extensive background in sport made him an ideal candidate to be part of the newly-created board, which will be meeting regularly to address the unique challenges of gambling in the North American sports landscape and looking to provide front-foot solutions to the issue for the entire ecosystem to follow.
He explains what drew him to accepting the PSAB NA’s offer, and where he sees his input making the greatest impact…
What made you want to join the Pro Sport Advisory Board North America?
“The environment is so critical to an athlete and staff member’s development and success. We have the chance to help support a company that is doing incredible work to educate and teach about something that is now having a greater influence on sports.”
What am I hoping to bring as a member of this board?
“I want to be a part of something bigger than myself. This is something that affects so many people and a chance to play a small role is important.
“I am passionate about education and player development being holistic and this is clearly something that has to be addressed going forward. We can’t sit around and wait for something to happen.”
Why is it important to create a specific board for North American sport?
“The legislature continues to change within the US and North American countries in general. Between the Big 5 sports leagues, Club WC, and WC all within North America, we have to support and play a part to ensure the integrity of the sports we love and are around.”
How important is gambling harm prevention to you / your organization?
“It is a necessity. We cannot be bystanders and have to provide support to staff and players. The pressure to perform is already enormous in pro sports and we have to find ways to educate and protect the players and staff from additional stressors from gambling.”
