NEWSLETTER
There is some good news for North Carolina sports betting enthusiasts, as the commission hopes to have betting live by March Madness in a few months. Here are the latest details and updates as we get closer to the launch date for online betting in the state.
NC Sports Betting By March Madness?
There has been plenty of buzz surrounding a potential launch date for North Carolina sports betting. The first day it could have launched was January 8, 2024, but the North Carolina Lottery Commission was clear that date would not be met.
Then, attention was moved to early February due to the Super Bowl being on February 11, 2024. The commission shot down that timeline as well. Now, Gov. Roy Cooper has stated he was the state to be live by the 2024 March Madness Tournament. He says it’s no guarantee but it is definitely the goal.
March Madness begins on March 19, 2024. Selection Sunday is on March 17, 2024. The state of Massachusetts launched sports betting on March 10, 2023, earlier this year to coincide with the 2023 March Madness Tournament.
North Carolina Sports Betting Applications Due Dec. 27
Today is the final day for sports betting operators to get their applications in for sports betting licenses. Then, the committee has 60 days to review applications and make final decisions on what sportsbooks will be available in the state for the launch date.
Operators like ESPN Bet and FanDuel have already formed partnerships in the state and will likely be available on day one. Other top brands like DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars are expected to apply for licenses to operate in North Carolina.
ESPN Bet, bet365, FanDuel, Fanatics Find Partnerships
A few of the top sportsbooks in the country have gotten an early start and found partnerships with in-state professional teams and facilities. The sports betting law in the state requires operators to work with professional sports teams and venues to earn sports betting licenses.
bet365 Sportsbook joined forces with the Charlotte Hornets and ESPN Bet teamed up with Quail Hollow Club which hosts PGA Tour events including the Wells Fargo Championship. FanDuel is also working with the PGA Tour while Fanatics is jumping into the NHL with the Carolina Hurricanes.
