Since its initial publication, BetMGM Casino, William Hill Sportsbook, and betly Sportsbook have all been launched in the Mountain State, making this an evolving story.
The West Virginia Lottery had a hectic Wednesday as it paved the path for a new legal online sportsbook and introduced the BetMGM online casino app, providing West Virginians with an additional option for iGaming.
The app, including the familiar BetMGM sports betting app for WV sports fans, could be launched within a few hours. Additionally, WV bettors can expect to gain access to another well-known online sportsbook brand in the near future.
Why BetMGM online casino could be a welcome addition
In a nutshell: WV online slots. At present, West Virginia online casino players have only one choice – DraftKings Casino. Despite generating over $16 million in wagers within its initial weeks without slots or video poker games, one can’t help but wonder how much greater its success could have been with these sought-after games. While DraftKings has recently introduced slots to its platform, it failed to fully seize the market without any competition.
BetMGM has entered the competition against DraftKings. Apart from its video poker games, BetMGM’s online casino product in various states also offers a wide range of slot titles. This impressive selection has enabled BetMGM to secure a notable portion of the market.
Other online casinos and sportsbooks that are looking to enter the WV market are now facing pressure. The recent advancements could prompt other online casino brands to expedite their plans. Flutter Entertainment, known for operating FanDuel Casino and popular PokerStars brands in different states, may consider entering the market to avoid being left behind.
However, it’s not just the online casino segment that is expected to expand in the WV gambling industry. Both online and retail sports betting are also experiencing growth.
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The party’s back on at Mardi Gras and Wheeling Island
Delaware North is set to reopen its brick-and-mortar sportsbooks in Nitro and Wheeling after months of closure. The Mardi Gras Sportsbook will resume operations tomorrow, followed by the reopening of the Wheeling Island Sportsbook on September 2nd.
Starting on Thursday, Delaware North’s online sports betting app, betly, will resume accepting wagers from West Virginians. This time, it will be utilizing a new platform. After the unfortunate BetLucky incident in March 2019, this will mark the first instance of online sports bets for the two WV casinos.
Although it is exciting for fans of Delaware North’s brand, the most significant news regarding online sports betting in West Virginia is William Hill’s entry into the market.
Currently, the timeline for the launch of William Hill is not yet fully determined. The company intends to commence testing its product next week, which is one of the remaining crucial steps in terms of both regulatory and technical aspects before the official launch.
In the near future, the Mountaineer Racetrack and Casino will offer WV bettors the opportunity to access William Hill. However, since three other online sportsbook brands have already established themselves months ahead, capturing a market share will necessitate a vigorous marketing campaign.
Therefore, upon the launch, bettors in West Virginia can anticipate promotional offers from William Hill. However, according to WV Lottery Director John Myers, Delaware North’s relaunch will not have such promotions, at least not right away.
In the near future, the range of online gambling opportunities in the Mountain State will significantly increase. This exciting development promises a highly competitive environment for the avid gamblers residing in WV.
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