Charlotte Hornets & bet365 | Fanatics App WV | California & Sports Betting

U.S. Sports Betting News - Around the Horn

Heading into the holiday season, a lot of states are moving to get their ducks in order regarding sports betting ahead of the holidays. Here is some key sports betting news out of North Carolina, West Virginia, and California.

Charlotte Hornets Sign Deal With bet365

Just last week, it was announced that sports betting in North Carolina would not be ready to launch by the beginning of 2024. That was disappointing news for sports bettors who were looking forward to betting on the NFL playoffs.

While the actual sports betting launch date in North Carolina has been delayed, there are still a number of sports betting interests that are busy getting ready to do business. One of those betting interests is bet365, one of the nation's top online gambling operators. They have officially signed a partnership agreement to serve as the primary online bookmaking representative for the NBA's Charlotte Hornets.

According to a bet365 official in a press release: “Everyone at bet365 is thrilled to partner with the Hornets, as we launch our iconic sports betting brand in North Carolina. The Hornets’ rich and dynamic history is deeply rooted in the Queen City community, and we’re abuzz to become part of their exciting future.”

While the new multi-year deal has already been inked, it's contingent on bet365 successfully securing a license from the North Carolina Gambling Commission. It's worth noting that the Commission has not yet started accepting applications. When the licensing process begins in earnest, other major professional sports teams in NC are expected to sign similar partnership deals. That could include deals involving the Carolina Panthers (NFL), the Carolina Hurricanes (NHL), and the Charlotte Football Club (MLS).

Fanatics Launches New Online Gambling App in West Virginia

Earlier this year, Fanatics Betting and Gaming (FBG) announced the acquisition of the American assets belonging to PointBet Australia. At the time of the acquisition, FBG officials stated they would be rolling out a new sports betting app and online casino app where applicable. Note: The app is called Fanatics Sportsbook, but online casino games will be made available in states where such activities are legal.

Effective immediately, that new app has been launched in West Virginia. For the benefit of existing PointsBet customers, Fanatics has devised a seamless process by which existing customers can easily transition to the new platform.

California Tribal Association Says "No" to Sports Betting Initiative

In anticipation of the 2024 election, two sports betting initiatives were making the rounds. Sensing that neither initiative would be beneficial for the state's Tribes, the California Tribal Association convened a vote as to whether or not either initiative warranted Tribal support. A unanimous vote of 52-0 made it clear both initiatives would not be allowed to move forward with any support from California's powerful Indian Nation.

What does this mean for sports betting in California? It's not likely any meaningful sports betting legislation is going to move forward at any point in the next couple of years. With the Indian Tribal Association in control, only the most favorable legislation would have a chance with voters.