Caesars Entertainment is set to expand its footprint in the sports betting market by launching its mobile sportsbook in North Carolina. This move comes through a strategic partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The anticipated launch date is March 11, 2024, marking a significant milestone for both Caesars and sports betting enthusiasts in North Carolina.
Partnership with Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
The collaboration between Caesars and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is not new. Caesars has a long-standing relationship with the tribe, operating two of their casinos in western North Carolina. These properties are Harrah’s Cherokee and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River. Harrah’s Cherokee offers the best casino games in North Carolina, according to an analysis from BetByState. This partnership has now evolved to include online sports betting, granting Caesars exclusive rights to mobile sports wagering at these locations and on Eastern Band of Cherokee tribal lands.
Preparations for the Launch
In anticipation of the launch, North Carolina residents can start registering and creating accounts with Caesars Sportsbook from March 1. This early registration process allows users to be ready to place bets as soon as the platform goes live. The timing is strategic, aiming to capture the excitement of March Madness, a peak period for sports betting due to the NCAA basketball tournament.
Exclusive Mobile Betting Rights
The agreement between Caesars and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians provides Caesars with a unique position in the North Carolina market. It will be the only operator with the right to offer mobile sports betting at the two casino properties on tribal lands. This exclusivity is expected to strengthen Caesars’ presence in the state and provide a competitive edge.
Statewide Impact and Potential
North Carolina presents a thriving market for sports betting, with a strong connection to college teams and professional franchises across various major leagues. The launch of Caesars Sportsbook is anticipated to tap into this potential, offering a wide range of betting options on professional, college, and Olympic-style events. The partnership also aims to benefit the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians by enhancing their tribal enterprise and offering new opportunities for growth.
Regulatory Approvals and Future Prospects
The launch of Caesars Sportsbook in North Carolina is pending approval by the North Carolina Lottery Commission. Once regulatory approvals are secured, Caesars will join the ranks of operators offering legal online sports betting in the state. This expansion is part of Caesars’ broader strategy to grow its digital offerings and provide a premier sports wagering experience to customers nationwide.
The partnership between Caesars Entertainment and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians marks a significant development in the sports betting landscape of North Carolina. With preparations underway for a March 11 launch, sports betting enthusiasts in the state are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Caesars Sportsbook. This venture not only signifies the growth of Caesars’ digital footprint but also highlights the potential for sports betting to contribute to the economic development of tribal lands. As the launch date approaches, all eyes will be on Caesars and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians as they set the stage for a new era of sports betting in North Carolina.
