If you live in North Carolina or plan to travel there this year, mark your calendars! The NC State Lottery Commission has voted that online sports betting will officially launch on the scene on March 11, 2024. Although this news is extremely exciting for sports fans, the Sports Betting Committee and the Lottery Commission are diligently working on the challenge of implementing safe and seamless sports betting in the state before the first online wager is made.
The final list of which online sports books will be active is still yet to be determined. The Lottery Commission wants prospective operators to submit their proposed internal controls for NC online sports betting tomorrow (January 26).
North Carolina Gears Up for Sports Betting Launch
Anyone over 21 with an account at a licensed operator will be legally allowed to place bets. While physical locations are on the horizon, online wagers will kick things off as approvals for in-person betting are finalized.
The lottery commission is currently sifting through nine applications for interactive sports wagering licenses. Among the potential players are familiar names like BetMGM (partnering with the Charlotte Motor Speedway), and Fanatics (teaming up with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes). With DraftKings, ESPNBet, Caesars, and FanDuel also in the mix, anticipation is building for a competitive and thrilling North Carolina sports betting scene.
A Win For College Basketball Bettors
The March 11 date is a big win for college basketball fans in North Carolina. The ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament will occur March 12-16 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Selection Sunday is on March 17, and the first round of the NCAA Tournament takes place March 21-22.
Even after March Madness, North Carolina’s passionate fan base and strong sports culture guarantee a successful long-term game. The state boasts numerous professional teams and major sporting events, ensuring a thriving sports betting scene beyond the initial launch.
Top Professional Sports Teams in NC
- Carolina Panthers
- Charlotte Hornets
- Carolina Hurricanes
- Charlotte FC
North Carolina Will Draw Bettors in With Promos
Expect a flurry of sports betting promos from online sportsbooks vying for attention of fans once the official launch is in place. For now, the state Lottery Commission is working on tackling key areas like operator compliance and regulations.
With 12 licenses up for grabs and nine companies battling it out, the competition is fierce. Big names like DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars Sportsbook, Fanatics, and ESPNBet are expected to expand their reach and begin new partnerships in a vibrant market.
NC Expected Online Sportsbooks
- BetMGM Sportsbook NC
- Caesars Sportsbook NC
- DraftKings Sportsbook NC
- FanDuel Sportsbook NC
- Fanatics Sportsbook NC
- ESPN BET NC
