UMass Lowell’s Center for Public Opinion conducts public-opinion polling at the state and national levels. The nationally recognized center uses the latest technology and highest standards in its surveys and is a member of the American Association for Public Opinion Research’s Transparency Initiative.

The center’s events and polls on political and social issues provide unique opportunities for civic engagement, experiential learning and research.

Public Not Interested in Watching College Basketball, but Majority Support Paying Collegiate Athletes

Basketball against black background Image by Piotr Stach

UMass Lowell’s Center for Public Opinion conducted a survey from Jan. 25 to Jan. 30, 2023, of 1,000 American adults about the popularity of college basketball, compensating college athletes, and name, image and likeness rights. 

Key Findings:

  • Less than one in five respondents (16%) consider themselves a fan of college basketball.
  • Nearly two-thirds (63%) of respondents say college athletes should be paid for the games they play.
  • Athletes should benefit from the use of their name, image or likeness, reported 68% of respondents.

Football Remains America’s Favorite Game, Despite Fan Reservations

Closeup of football laces

UMass Lowell’s Center for Public Opinion conducted a survey from Jan. 25 to 30, 2023, of 1,000 American adults about sports betting, as well as favorite sports and perceptions of popular athletes.

Key Findings

  • Football remains American’s favorite sport even though a majority are troubled by hits sustained by players during the game (52%) and more than two-thirds (68%) believe those injuries cause long-term health problems for players.
  • Respondents were also concerned with players’ behavior off the field with more than four in 10 reporting domestic violence committed by athletes and other violent crimes as major problems.
  • Tied at 31%, respondents equally favor and disfavor sports betting while just 15% report placing a bet on a sporting event in the last five years.