Sports News Recap: Focusing on Wagering Trends in the Southeastern Region of the Sports World
Get a Grip: U.S. Sports Betting Week in Review - Ky Goes Mobile, FL Still in Limbo, NC Curveballs
Strap in, sports bettors! This week, we're diving into the ever-evolving world of U.S. sports betting, checking out what's new in Kentucky, Florida, and North Carolina. Buckle up!
The Show Must Go On (In Kentucky)
Next week's a game-changer for Kentucky: mobile sports betting is set to kick off on the 22nd, following the successful launch of retail betting on the 9th of September. Seven major mobile operators have already been taking pre-launch registrations, with bonus offers luring in new customers. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission shared that over 60,000 accounts have been created, and a cool $4.5 million has been wagered since retail sports betting started on the 7th. In anticipation, the commission's adding betting markets for Formula One Racing, the National Rugby League, Professional Fighters League, Bellator, and the Universal Tennis League to its roster.
Florida: Standby Mode
Unfortunately, it's a different story in Florida. A legal battle between a parimutuel operator and the U.S. Department of the Interior means the Seminole Tribe's Hard Rock Bet platform is on hold, at least for a few weeks – and quite possibly many months (or more) to come. Here's hoping for a speedy resolution to this tangle.
North Carolina: Expect the Unexpected
North Carolina seems to have a trick up its sleeve. Despite the fact that mobile betting's expected to launch in the first half of 2024, the state's lawmakers have thrown a curveball. The new budget includes a provision requiring operators to partner with sports teams or venues instead of applying directly to the North Carolina Lottery Commission. Operators are navigating this hurdle, but rest assured: we'll be right here, keeping you updated.
There's plenty more happening in the world of sports betting, so stay tuned for more coverage, right here at Sports Handle. For additional industry news, be sure to check out our sister site, US Bets, featuring a weekly Double Down column and Gamble On podcast.
Tech Glitches and Upgrades
Barstool's sportsbook encountered a glitch during system updates, with some accounts still in lockdown mode. On the brighter side, BetMGM's updated app has rolled out some nifty product improvements.
Advertising: Cutting Through the Noise
Sportsbooks have cranked up their targeted advertising strategies as the NFL season kicks off. But it's not all about flashy commercials; new platforms, like the Sumsub platform, are being designed to help sportsbooks tackle responsible gambling effectively.
Can Tech Help You Win?
Some high-tech startups are looking to give bettors the edge they need, aspiring to help bettors beat the books. But remember, luck plays a big part in sports betting!
Regulations: A Work in Progress
Massachusetts sportsbook operators have expressed concerns about the state's data privacy regulations, asking for modifications. Meanwhile, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission has denied DraftKings' requests for waivers to forgo the 21+ language on some logos.
In other news, the Commission approved the addition of limited wagering on certain jai lai events to its bet menu.
Partnerships for Problem Gambling Support
BetMGM has paired up with Kindbridge Behavioral Health in Colorado to deliver direct telehealth services to customers who self-exclude due to problem gambling concerns. This pilot program will give individuals direct access to comprehensive mental health assessments and group support services when they self-exclude from the platform.
Most Important, Interesting Stories
- Field Goals Matter: NFL Field Goal Bets Result in $20 Million Sportsbook Payout [ESPN.com]
- Even The Meaningless Kicks Matter: Rams' Meaningless Final Field Goal Significant to Gamblers and Casinos [Pro Football Talk]
- Threes a Crowd Against PointsBet: New Jersey Fines PointsBet for Multiple Sports Betting Violations [Associated Press]
- Hartford Joins the Sportsbook Game: XL Center Sports Bar and Sportsbook Officially Opens [FOX 61]
- In Kentucky's evolving sports betting landscape, mobile betting will begin on the 22nd, post-successful retail launch. Seven operators have been accepting pre-launch registrations, offering bonuses to attract new customers.
- The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has already seen over 60,000 accounts created and $4.5 million wagered since retail sports betting started. They've added betting markets for Formula One Racing, National Rugby League, Professional Fighters League, Bellator, and the Universal Tennis League.
- Florida's launched sports betting is delayed due to a legal battle between a parimutuel operator and the US Department of the Interior, potentially lasting for months.
- North Carolina's mobile betting launch – expected in H1 2024 – has seen a surprise provision requiring operators to partner with sports teams or venues instead of applying directly to the NC Lottery Commission.
- DKSportsbook encountered technical issues during system updates, while BetMGM updated its app with new product improvements.
- Sportsbooks are enhancing their targeted advertising strategies, applying responsible gambling tactics with platforms like Sumsub, and some high-tech startups are trying to help bettors find an edge in sports betting, although it's important to remember that luck plays a significant role.
