Here’s today’s quick rundown in the world of US gambling.
Don’t legalize sports betting if you are banning in-game wagers
Minnesota’s efforts to legalize sports betting are progressing. However, some legislators want to ban in-game wagers if the state allows online sports betting. I am sure most of you know this is a terrible idea since lots of sports betting takes place during the events and not just beforehand. There is no similar ban of all live betting that has been instituted anywhere in the nation. If you’re going to legalize online sports betting, don’t legalize a half-assed version of it.
Closing Line Consulting
Need help with gambling content, communications/PR, or research and analysis? I’m starting a consultancy to help companies in the gaming industry and beyond. Reach out if you want to have a conversation. Learn more about CLC here.
Farewell, SI Sportsbook
888 is giving up on SI Sportsbook, in a move that will shock no one. The sportsbook was only live in three states, and the problems around Sports Illustrated are well-known. Deploying the SI brand for sports betting was never a good idea (even without the benefit of hindsight). It never had the brand loyalty/juice to make the endeavor work (better than the shuttered MaximBet, worse than the shuttered Barstool Sportsbook). That problem has only grown with the mishandling of SI’s website and content. The craziest bit of the 888 exit is it has to pay $50 million to get out of the deal. 888 also appears to be the latest European operator that’s giving up on the US market. Of all the ill-fated attempts to launch a sportsbook in the US, this one was perhaps the one most destined to fail.
Quick hitters
DraftKings CEO Jason Robins talks Jackpocket upside.
It looks like sports betting is dead in Alabama.
The Washington Post ran an editorial about sports betting.
The Closing Line is a publication of +More Media.
For sponsorship inquiries, contact me or email scott@andmore.media.
Live betting is one of the most features on sportsbooks. If Minnesota doesn't want sports betting, its lawmakers should just come out and say so.