Lawyer Who Made US Sports Betting Possible Passes Away at 84

Theodore “Ted” Olson, an advocate who played a key role in the legalization of sports betting, has, unfortunately, passed away. While the man himself might be dead, his legacy will continue, cementing him as one of the most influential people in the past few decades.

Olson Made Betting Possible

Olson successfully argued Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association in front of the United States Supreme Court. The rest is history – the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was overturned, ushering in an era of sports betting.

The legalization of betting was no easy task. New Jersey, which has been trying to legalize sports betting since 2011, was initially prohibited to do so because of the PASPA. As a result, Chris Christie, who was governor at the time, contacted Olson in order to work out a solution. When Olson joined the cause, sports betting advocates rejoiced, knowing that the best Supreme Court lawyer was on their side.

Things didn’t immediately get better but even after several losses, Olson forecasted a Supreme Court victory. And this is exactly how things turned out.

A Trailblazing Advocate

Once named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by The Times magazine, the professional lawyer had a long history of tackling difficult high-profile cases.

Before the case against the NCAA, he was also responsible for the Bush vs. Gore case, effectively prevented the recount of votes in Florida, making Bush the next president without further delays.

He also challenged an amendment in California that banned same-sex marriage.

Olson passed away aged 84. His death was announced by Gibson Dunn, his law firm, which regretted his passing. Describing Olson as a “titan of the legal profession” and an extraordinary advocate, Barbara Becker, chair and managing partner of Gibson Dunn, said that the entire team mourns the loss of a principled, fearless and creative lawyer.

We mourn his loss profoundly and send our condolences to his wife Lady, a cherished member of our firm family, and to all of Ted’s loved ones.

Barbara Becker, chair and managing partner, Gibson Dunn

Olson, for reference, also served as solicitor general of the US under Bush and US assistant attorney general of the Office of Legal Counsel under Reagan.