Caesars Entertainment Strikes Historic Deal for Online Sports Betting Launch in North Carolina

Caesars Entertainment’s Milestone Expansion in North Carolina’s Emerging Betting Market

Caesars Entertainment, a dominant force in the gaming industry, is poised to make a significant splash in North Carolina‘s burgeoning sports betting sector. In collaboration with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Caesars is gearing up to launch mobile sports betting, coinciding with the state’s debut in the online sports wagering arena set for March 11. Beginning March 1, the Caesars Sportsbook app will start welcoming sign-ups and deposits, paving the way for a highly anticipated market entry.

Strategic Alliance: Caesars and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

The venture is a natural evolution of Caesars’ long-standing partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This collaboration has already led to the successful establishment of two land-based locations: Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort in Cherokee and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel in Murphy. The expanded agreement now grants Caesars exclusive mobile sports wagering rights at these casinos, as well as across the tribal lands in western North Carolina.

Eric Hession, president of Caesars Digital, expressed enthusiasm about deepening this two-decade-long partnership. He emphasized that the expansion allows Caesars to enhance the sports wagering experience for customers, offering a seamless transition from in-person betting at their sportsbooks to the convenience of mobile betting.

Michell Hicks, principal chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, also voiced excitement for the new joint endeavor, highlighting its potential to advance tribal enterprise and benefit the community.

A Competitive Landscape: Caesars Among Pioneers in North Carolina

With the impending launch of North Carolina’s online sports betting market, Caesars joins other major players such as BetMGM and DraftKings in establishing a foothold in the state. Operators looking to enter this market must secure partnerships with local sports teams, leagues, or venues.

BetMGM has already carved its path through an agreement with Charlotte Motor Speedway, while DraftKings has partnered with NASCAR. Similarly, Fanatics Betting and Gaming is joining forces with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, and Underdog is collaborating with McConnell Golf for license applications. ESPN Bet, another significant player, has secured a deal as the official betting operator of Quail Hollow Golf Club and the Wells Fargo Championship in North Carolina.

North Carolina’s Sports Betting Landscape: A New Frontier

As North Carolina prepares to welcome a diverse array of operators into its sports betting ecosystem, the state is poised to become a dynamic and competitive market. With Caesars Entertainment leading the charge alongside other industry giants, sports enthusiasts in North Carolina can anticipate a robust and engaging betting experience that combines the thrill of sports with the convenience of online platforms. This development marks not only a milestone for Caesars but also signifies the growing acceptance and integration of sports betting into mainstream entertainment and sports culture.