Sports betting provider, BetMGM, relocates its sportsbook from Great American Ball Park.
BetMGM Sportsbook Relocating from Great American Ball Park to Downtown Cincinnati's The Banks
The BetMGM Sportsbook, which opened at Great American Ball Park following the legalization of wagering in Ohio last year, will be leaving its current location this autumn and moving to The Banks district in downtown Cincinnati. The new sportsbook will be situated at the intersection of Second Street and Joe Nuxhall Way, and will house the fourth Nation Kitchen & Bar restaurant in the city.
The new sports betting venue will offer a separate area restricted to individuals aged 21 and older, equipped with numerous betting windows, kiosks, and an abundance of televisions. The restaurant within the complex will cater to patrons of all ages.
In a press release, Matt Prevost, the chief revenue officer of BetMGM, stated, "We are excited to further enhance BetMGM's presence in Ohio. The Reds and Nation Kitchen & Bar have proven to be remarkable partners, and together, we are creating an outstanding entertainment hub that we eagerly anticipate welcoming sports enthusiasts."
Doug Healy, the Reds' chief financial officer, added, "The convergence of BetMGM and Nation Kitchen & Bar offers another exciting destination for our thriving urban core. This Nation Kitchen & Bar brings exceptional dining services from one of Cincinnati's renowned eateries, while BetMGM delivers an unparalleled sports betting experience."
Previously reported by WCPO 9, BetMGM had been contemplating a move away from Great American Ball Park, as the retail sportsbook was the only one in Ohio that did not show a profit. According to the Ohio Casino Control Commission's revenue reports, the sportsbook posted a net loss of over $8,000 from January through April.
In a separate incident, the sportsbook was associated with a betting scandal involving the University of Alabama baseball team. "There were signs of suspicious activity and conduct that the BetMGM staff identified, prompting a notice from BetMGM to both U.S. Integrity and the commission. That's how it began," Matt Schuler, executive director of the OCCC, told WCPO. Utilizing available tools, BetMGM provided the commission with substantial, credible information that led to the cessation of all betting activity related to Alabama baseball.
[1] The relocation aims to provide a more integrated and standalone sports betting experience within the lively The Banks district, offering additional amenities such as a large videowall, multiple betting kiosks, and a VIP room, enhancing the overall sports betting environment.[2] The move to The Banks was officially announced on June 20, 2024.
- Patrons can expect an improved sports betting experience at the BetMGM Sportsbook, as it prepares to relocate from Great American Ball Park to The Banks district in downtown Cincinnati.
- After identifying signs of suspicious activity, BetMGM, the sportsbook in question, proactively provided substantial and credible information to the Ohio Casino Control Commission, ultimately leading to the cessation of all betting activity related to the University of Alabama baseball team.
