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The Michigan Gaming Control Board has sent out a total of four C&D orders to offshore illegal gaming operators online, namely Bet Pop Casino, You Wager, Discount Wager, and Wager 7. These casino platforms are said to be violating the Lawful Internet Gaming Act of Michigan along with the Michigan Penal Code and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act. In a decisive move to protect Michigan residents and uphold state gaming laws, the Michigan Gaming Control Board has issued cease-and-desist orders to four offshore gambling operators found to be offering unlicensed online betting services in the state. The targeted platforms include Wager 7, You Wager, Discount Wager, and Bet Pop Casino. These actions are part of an ongoing effort by the MGCB to enforce Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Penal Code, and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act. Each of the operators has been ordered to cease all gambling-related activities in the state immediately or face further legal consequences. Offshore platforms operating illegally According to the MGCB, these four platforms were unlawfully accepting bets from Michigan players without obtaining the required state licenses. As unregulated entities, they lack critical consumer protections, including responsible gaming programs, secure financial systems, and dispute resolution mechanisms. "These illegal gambling operations prey on vulnerable consumers and undermine the integrity of the regulated gaming industry," said the Executive Director of the MGCB, Henry Williams. "Michigan residents deserve the protections that come with licensed, legal gaming. We will continue to take strong action against those who skirt the law." You Wager: high-stakes betting without state approval You Wager, an online sportsbook established in 1998 and based in Costa Rica, has been accepting players from across the US, including Michigan. The site is well-known among high-stakes gamblers, offering extensive betting options on everything from NFL and MMA to international soccer and esports. With NFL spread betting limits reaching up to $10,000, You Wager has built a sizable following - but none of it is authorized under Michigan law. Bet Pop Casino: an unlicensed gaming hub Bet Pop Casino, launched in 2019 and owned by First Fidelity Company, operates a full-scale online casino offering slots, blackjack, video poker, roulette, baccarat, and poker. Despite its wide variety of games, the platform has not secured a Michigan gaming license and is therefore in direct violation of state gaming laws. Wager 7: a multi-platform offender Wager 7 not only provides a comprehensive sportsbook covering college football, horse racing, and auto racing, but it also runs an online casino with poker, pai gow, craps, and other table games. The site has promoted features such as 'same-day payouts' and a referral bonus program - marketing tactics that may attract players but do not meet Michigan's regulatory standards. Discount Wager: lacking transparency and oversight The most recent of the four, Discount Wager, was established in 2020 and is also owned by First Fidelity Company. The platform operates without well-defined terms and conditions and provides none of the consumer safeguards mandated by the MGCB. Its lack of transparency and official oversight further elevates the risks to players. Legal and consumer implications The MGCB's investigation determined that all four platforms were violating multiple Michigan laws by offering unauthorized gambling services. Consumers who use such sites are exposed to higher risks, including financial fraud, lack of data security, and no recourse in disputes or payout issues. Each operator has been given 14 days to comply with the cease-and-desist orders. If they fail to do so, the MGCB, in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Attorney General, will pursue additional enforcement actions. To protect the integrity of Michigan's legal gambling industry and ensure public safety, the MGCB is asking the public to stay vigilant. Michigan residents who encounter suspicious or illegal gambling activity are encouraged to report it by contacting 1-888-314-2682 or sending an email to MIGamblingTip@michigan.gov.

After making those early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid, it seems that Novak Djokovic is definitely getting some pressure in his game at this point as he is still yet to bag a tournament win in over a year and a half. At this point, his best chance for a promising comeback on the clay courts would be the French Open later in the month. By the high standards of the Serbian maestro, it cannot be denied that this has been quite a disappointing year so far. At the age of 37, Djokovic has suffered multiple early exits in his last two clay runs, and even skipped out on the Italian Open – where he has won six titles and could have been a favorite to look out for. But as the season continues, it seems that Djokovic is not opting for the scorching-hot environment in Spain and Italy for now. But after accepting the wild card entry for the Geneva Open – another clay court tournament – it does seem that Djokovic is preparing well for a comeback in the next big tournament at hand, the Roland Garros. The Chase for the 25th Grand Slam Title While there was no official statement from Djokovic as to why he opted to skip the Italian Open, the Serbian star did make it clear that he would be participating in the low-stakes Geneva Open. This is a chance to familiarize himself with the red dirt grounds after losing out on his first two runs this season on the same surface. In a season filled with a lot of new challenges and unfamiliar struggles, much has been questioned about the consistency of one of the tennis greats. Nothing has been the same for him ever since both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have moved on from the game. He did initially manage to try to stay at a top for a few years, but now has faltered in his games. “I was hoping I can play one more match than I played in Monte-Carlo. [It’s] kind of a new reality for me, I have to say,” Djokovic said after his 6-3, 6-4 loss to Arnaldi. “Trying to win a match or two, not really thinking about getting far in the tournament… It's a completely different feeling from what I had in 20-plus years of professional tennis. It can be remembered that Djokovic came so close to claiming his 100th tour-level title in Miami before losing to Jakub Mensik in the championship match. Nothing has been easy for the Serbian star so far. A Patchy Season for Djokovic This has been an up-and-down season for the Serbian star. Djokovic started out on a better groove this year than he did in 2024, reaching the semis of the Australian Open before pulling out due to an injury. Since then, Djokovic has lost three matches in a row on his comeback before that massive run in the Miami Open, where he nearly capped off a huge campaign. Still, Djokovic has won 12 of his 19 matches so far, but he is yet to bring a title home and could have easily earned those in the big tournaments where he almost won. The ATP 250 event will begin this May 18th, and the French Open is not that far away as it begins this May 25th. This is a perfect chance for Djokovic to come back strong if he wants to win it all now more than ever.

At the age of 40, there are indeed a lot of discussions online right now as to how legendary MLS star Kei Kamara can actually make an impact for FC Cincinnati. As one of the best players to ever grace the pitch in the league, it seems that there is a lot of hope that the veteran would be able to boost Cincinnati’s hopes of winning a league title now more than ever. Kamara was a free agent even after he ended up producing well with LAFC last season. He scored a total of eight goals and five assists across all competitions for the Western team, which eventually led to the Black and Gold scoring its first US Open Cup title in that campaign. Cincinnati hopes that the experience will rub off well on the rest of the core and turn them into a championship squad. Cincinnati sits atop the Eastern Conference so far in this season and is locked with Columbus Crew for the top spot, only leading by a tiebreaker stat. For this team to actually lock in and come up a championship, Kamara’s big game may be the answer that they have been looking for in a long while. Bringing in the Veteran Kei Kamara stands as one of Major League Soccer’s most enduring and impactful figures. With a career spanning over a decade, Kamara has etched his name into the league’s history books through consistency, athleticism, and an unmistakable flair for scoring goals. As one of the league’s all-time leading goal scorers, his legacy is not just defined by the number of goals he’s netted, but by the breadth of clubs he’s impacted—having played for more MLS teams than any other player. From the Columbus Crew to Sporting Kansas City, and the New England Revolution to the Colorado Rapids, Kamara's ability to adapt and contribute wherever he goes is a testament to his talent and professionalism. What sets Kamara apart is not merely his goal-scoring ability, but his longevity and influence both on and off the field. While many strikers fade after a few seasons, Kamara has maintained a high level of performance well into his late 30s, showcasing not just physical durability but a deep understanding of the game. His aerial dominance, clever movement in the box, and knack for being in the right place at the right time have made him a nightmare for defenders. He’s been a clutch performer in big moments and a reliable presence in attack, often elevating the teams around him with his experience and leadership. What’s in it for Cincinnati Kei Kamara's recent signing with FC Cincinnati marks a significant chapter in both his illustrious MLS career and the club's ambitious trajectory. At 40 years old, Kamara is the second all-time leading goal scorer in MLS history, with 147 regular-season goals and 445 appearances, making him one of the most prolific and experienced players in the league's history. Kamara's versatility and leadership are expected to complement the dynamic play of Kévin Denkey, Cincinnati's current primary striker. The pairing could create a formidable offensive duo, combining Denkey's pace and pressing ability with Kamara's aerial prowess and clinical finishing. This synergy would not only bolster Cincinnati's attacking options but also provide tactical flexibility for head coach Pat Noonan. Kei Kamara's signing with FC Cincinnati is a strategic move that enhances the team's offensive capabilities and injects veteran leadership into the squad. As the club aims for sustained success, Kamara's impact will be pivotal in navigating the challenges of the MLS season and in their pursuit of silverware.

RSI has just introduced a new initiative aimed at increasing gaming awareness and literacy for the youth. The program, called Gaming Literacy Aiding Decisions (GLAD), is an innovative program meant to help educators enhance the gaming literacy of high school students as well as promote Rush Street Interactive's responsible relationship with the social aspects of gaming. Rush Street Interactive, a leading online gambling operator, has announced the launch of a forward-thinking educational initiative aimed at enhancing gaming literacy among teenagers. Developed in partnership with Integrity Compliance 360, the Gaming Literacy Aiding Decisions (GLAD) program is designed to provide educators with the proper tools to help high school students make informed and responsible choices in a landscape increasingly shaped by digital entertainment and gambling. Bridging the educational gap in a changing gaming environment With the rapid evolution of technology and entertainment, teens today are growing up in a world where online gaming and gambling are more accessible than ever. Recognizing this societal shift, RSI and IC360 have committed to proactively addressing the educational void surrounding responsible gaming. "Consumers today have more entertainment options than ever before, including within the gaming space," said Chief Executive Officer of Rush Street Interactive Richard Schwartz. "As technology continues to evolve, entertainment options such as online gambling have become increasingly mainstream. Like any material societal change, this evolution requires thoughtful education and honest, open dialogue - particularly for youth." Schwartz emphasized the importance of not only acknowledging the prevalence of online gaming but also preparing the next generation with the knowledge to navigate it responsibly. At RSI, we believe our role extends beyond financial contributions. We have a responsibility to empower young people with the tools to make educated decisions about gambling - now and in the future, he added. A curriculum built for relevance and responsibility The GLAD initiative seeks to be a cornerstone in responsible gaming education by providing a structured, engaging curriculum for high school educators. It is tailored to help students understand the mechanics and risks associated with gambling while fostering critical thinking around their personal choices and media consumption. The curriculum's pilot phase has launched in Delaware and New Jersey, where IC360 and RSI have been collaborating with local school districts through a series of speaker events and educational workshops. These early-stage deployments aim to collect valuable feedback and establish performance benchmarks, ensuring the program remains responsive and effective as it expands. Partnership setting new standards in Responsible Gaming education IC360, known for its leadership in compliance and responsible gambling solutions, sees the collaboration as a significant step toward shaping healthier attitudes in younger audiences. "We are proud to partner with Rush Street Interactive, a company that has not only identified the need for gambling literacy among young people but has also taken meaningful, proactive steps to lead the way in addressing this critical educational gap," said Co-CEO and President of IC360, Eric Frank. Frank praised RSI's approach as a model for other industry leaders, saying, "Their demonstrable commitment to supporting educators and empowering students sets a new standard for creating informed and responsible attitudes toward gambling." A scalable, impactful initiative The long-term vision for GLAD involves expanding the program beyond its pilot regions to reach schools across North America. RSI as well as IC360 plan to use insights from the initial rollout to refine content and delivery strategies, ensuring the program remains engaging, relevant, and scalable. By equipping educators with the necessary tools and knowledge, the GLAD initiative is set to foster a generation of students who are not only aware of gambling's presence in modern entertainment but are also prepared to approach it with critical awareness and responsibility. As digital entertainment continues to shape cultural norms, RSI's initiative stands as a proactive and socially conscious effort to educate youth, reinforcing the industry's potential to lead in positive change for society.

In recent times, a lot of states in the US have initiated bans for sweepstakes casino platforms. While some states' bill proposals are still ongoing, some have already been rejected. We take a look at bills that are still active and find out what's happening with these bills in some key states, like New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and more. In a year marked by legislative scrutiny of online sweepstakes platforms, US state lawmakers have introduced a wave of bills seeking to regulate or ban these dual-currency gaming operators. While several proposals have failed to gain traction and died in session, others remain active and are advancing through statehouses. The legislative movement stems from concerns around the legality, consumer protections, and perceived overlap between sweepstakes models and online gambling. However, recent trends show growing resistance to sweeping bans, particularly in states prioritizing innovation and economic freedom. Early setbacks in the south and mid-Atlantic Some states took swift action early in the legislative year, only to see efforts fizzle amid wider gaming debates. In Mississippi, for example, the Senate passed a bill banning sweepstakes operators. Yet the measure was ultimately derailed in a conference committee, tangled in the state's larger conversation around expanding online sports betting. Similarly, Florida's attempt to prohibit sweepstakes platforms ended in quiet withdrawal earlier this month. That move was welcomed by industry advocates like the Social and Promotional Games Association. "The defeat of these bills continues a clear national trend," said an SPGA spokesperson. "Lawmakers across the country are rejecting these anti-innovation, anti-business efforts that attempt to dictate what games American adults can play on their phones." The spokesperson also pointed to Maryland and Arkansas, where similar legislation failed to pass, indicating growing skepticism toward restrictive bills. A state-by-state look: where the action continues Despite setbacks in some regions, several states still have active legislation that could reshape the landscape for online sweepstakes platforms. Connecticut: Senate yet to vote In Connecticut, SB 1235 was introduced in February to prohibit both real and simulated online casino gaming or sports betting conducted via sweepstakes platforms. The bill has cleared several committee hurdles and is now awaiting a vote on the Senate floor. With the state's legislative session running until June 4, there is still time for further movement. Louisiana: unanimous Senate support Louisiana has made notable progress. The Senate passed SB 181 with a unanimous 39 - 0 vote. This bill seeks to expand the definition of 'gambling by computer' to include sweepstakes operators using dual-currency systems. It now moves to the House Committee on Administration of Criminal Justice. The legislative session continues until June 12, giving proponents a narrow window to finalize the bill. New Jersey: slow but active In New Jersey, Assembly Bill 5447 gained momentum after a dormant period. The Assembly's Tourism, Gaming and Arts Committee advanced the measure last week. A5447 targets platforms offering virtual currencies that yield real cash prizes, and it still requires approval from additional committees. Given the legislature remains in session until December 31, lawmakers have time to refine and debate the proposal. New York: Addabbo's bill advances New York legislators have also taken a strong interest. Senate Bill S5935, led by gaming advocate Sen. Joseph Addabbo, has already reached the Senate floor. A companion House bill, AB6745, remains in committee. Addabbo's bill includes an amendment granting the New York State Gaming Commission more authority to define what constitutes a sweepstakes system - potentially allowing for nuanced regulation over outright bans. New York's session ends on June 12. Montana: awaiting the signature of the Governor In Montana, lawmakers have already passed SB555, sending it to Governor Greg Gianforte's desk for approval. The bill avoids using the term 'sweepstakes' directly but amends gambling definitions to include any platform that transmits gambling information and allows wagers or payouts in any currency. Notably, it preserves legal standing for free-to-play casino models. A mixed national picture As legislative sessions near their end in several states, the fate of online sweepstakes bills remains uncertain. While many proposals have stalled or died, active measures in states like Louisiana, Connecticut, and New York suggest the debate is far from over. Industry advocates continue to push back against what they see as restrictive, anti-consumer laws. Meanwhile, state lawmakers are weighing how best to regulate a fast-evolving digital gaming sector without stifling innovation. The next few weeks will be critical in determining which states move toward prohibition - and which choose a more measured regulatory path.

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook addressed his contract situation during a recent appearance at a Celebrity Poker Tour event in Las Vegas. When asked about the possibility of a holdout, Cook remained tight-lipped, stating, "I necessarily don't want to talk about it right now, because it's like, it's something I want to hold in to myself. Just let the business take care of the business." Cook, 25, is entering the final year of his rookie contract, which is set to pay him $5.3 million in 2025. He has been a standout performer for the Bills, earning back-to-back Pro Bowl selections and leading the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns in 2024. His impressive performances have fueled discussions about a potential contract extension. In February, Cook hinted at his desired salary by stating, "I just want to get what I deserve," and later emphasized his goal of securing "the big bucks." Reports suggest that Cook is seeking an extension worth $15 million per year, which would place him among the highest-paid running backs in the league. Now he is keen to get that into reality. Cook and the Hunt for Bigger Pay However, contract negotiations between Cook and the Bills have reportedly stalled. General Manager Brandon Beane indicated that while preliminary talks occurred, the team is now focused on other priorities, including the draft. Cook has also been absent from the team's voluntary offseason workouts, though Beane expressed confidence that he will be ready when the season begins. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract, Cook remains focused on his performance and his commitment to the team. He concluded his remarks by stating, "However it works out, it works out. I mean, I just make sure the business is a business, and just do whatever I can to always be there for my teammates, and however it works out, it works out. And then we go play football." As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Cook's status and whether the Bills and their star running back can come to terms on a new contract. The Cook Impact James Cook has solidified his role as a cornerstone of the Buffalo Bills' offense, particularly during the 2024 season. The 25-year-old running back led the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns, tying O.J. Simpson's franchise record for most in a season. His performance was instrumental in the Bills' high-scoring offense, which set a new franchise record with 525 points in the regular season. Cook's versatility was on full display as he contributed significantly in both the rushing and passing games, accumulating 1,267 yards from scrimmage and earning his second consecutive Pro Bowl selection. Beyond his on-field achievements, Cook has become a leader in the locker room, earning praise from head coach Sean McDermott for his development and leadership qualities. His consistent performance and leadership have made him a valuable asset to the Bills, prompting discussions about a potential contract extension. While negotiations are ongoing, Cook's impact on the field and in the locker room underscores his importance to the team's future success. After all, he was instrumental in most of their playoff successes, and it would be fun to see him get another chance at the postseason and finally break that drought on the Super Bowl with the Bills soon enough. Cook definitely deserves a lot of credit for his success with Buffalo, and the team should definitely consider paying him better.

In a decisive move signaling a shift in direction, the Colorado Rockies have relieved manager Bud Black of his duties following a dismal 7–33 start to the 2025 MLB season. The decision comes on the heels of a 9–3 victory over the San Diego Padres, which ended an eight-game losing streak but was insufficient to salvage Black's tenure. The Rockies' performance this season has been marked by inconsistency and underachievement, culminating in a franchise-worst 21–0 loss to the Padres the previous day. Black, who became the Rockies' all-time winningest manager in 2024, managed the team for nine seasons, compiling a 544–690 record. Under his leadership, the Rockies reached the playoffs in 2017 and 2018 but have since struggled to maintain competitiveness. The team's ongoing challenges, including back-to-back 100-loss seasons in 2023 and 2024, prompted the front office to seek a change. A New Dawn In the wake of Black's dismissal, third-base coach Warren Schaeffer has been appointed interim manager for the remainder of the season. Clint Hurdle, a former Rockies manager and the franchise's all-time winningest skipper, will serve as the interim bench coach. General Manager Bill Schmidt expressed confidence in Schaeffer's ability to connect with players and improve team performance, emphasizing the need for a fresh approach to reverse the team's fortunes. As the Rockies embark on this new chapter, the focus will be on rebuilding the team's culture and performance. The remainder of the 2025 season presents an opportunity for Schaeffer and the coaching staff to assess the roster and implement strategies aimed at long-term success. The Rockies' ownership and management are committed to making the necessary changes to restore the team to competitiveness in the National League West. Schaeffer, previously the team’s third base coach and a respected figure in the Rockies’ player development system, steps into one of the most challenging managerial roles in baseball. But does he have the tools – and time – to make an impact? Schaeffer Stepping Up Schaeffer’s most immediate opportunity lies in player development and clubhouse culture. A former minor league manager within the Rockies’ system, he has strong relationships with many of the team’s younger players, including top prospects like Adael Amador and Yanquiel Fernandez. Giving these prospects meaningful playing time could inject life into a stagnant roster. Schaeffer’s background managing in the minors gives him insight into the Rockies’ farm system. These changes wouldn’t solve every issue overnight, but they would signal a bold shift toward player growth, accountability, and future competitiveness. One should expect that he will instill more aggressive baserunning and better situational awareness, turning the Rockies into a more dynamic, high-effort team. Additionally, Schaeffer is expected to emphasize fundamentals, baserunning, and defensive improvement – areas where the Rockies have consistently struggled. With Clint Hurdle stepping in as interim bench coach, Schaeffer will also have a seasoned voice beside him to help stabilize the team’s leadership. If the Rockies are to salvage anything from 2025, it won’t be about a playoff push – it will be about setting the tone for 2026 and beyond. Schaeffer’s success will hinge not just on wins, but on whether he can inspire effort, reestablish development priorities, and restore a sense of direction to a franchise adrift. The challenge is steep – but for Schaeffer, it’s also the opportunity of a lifetime that he should not pass up with Black now moving on from the team.

A lucky player has won an astonishing $609,198 progressive jackpot prize with only a $20 wager while playing the slot game MGM Grand Millions on a BetMGM online casino at the beginning of the year. Steven Hooker, a native from Michigan, also got the 'VIP treatment' on his very first trip to Vegas, where he received tickets to an AC/DC concert and stayed for 2 nights at the ARIA, which included exotic car racing and a steak dinner. BetMGM, a premier operator in the iGaming and sports betting industry, announced that Steven Hooker, a resident of Michigan, scored a life-changing $609,198 progressive jackpot with a single $20 wager on MGM Grand Millions via BetMGM Casino. The win took place in January, and in April, Hooker received a high-rolling celebration courtesy of BetMGM in Las Vegas. From small bet to big win Steven Hooker's massive win came from playing MGM Grand Millions, a slot game exclusive to BetMGM Casino and developed in-house by Entain, BetMGM's co-parent company. The game features a vibrant emerald backdrop, golden lion statues, stacks of cash, and other high-roller symbols. With 243 ways to win in the base game - and up to 1,024 ways during free spins - MGM Grand Millions has become a favorite among players seeking the thrill of progressive jackpots. Hooker's $609,198 win is just one of many impressive payouts on the platform. In 2024 alone, BetMGM awarded $128.5 million in progressive jackpots to online casino players. Michigan led all states with $42.7 million in payouts. Las Vegas like a rockstar As part of BetMGM's exclusive jackpot program, Hooker was flown to Las Vegas for a VIP experience in April - his very first time visiting the iconic gaming city. A devoted fan of the legendary rock band AC/DC, Hooker received tickets to see the band live at Allegiant Stadium, courtesy of BetMGM. His celebration also included a glamorous check presentation on stage at Rhythm & Riffs, located at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. BetMGM pulled out all the stops, offering a luxurious 2-night stay at ARIA complete with fine dining at Jean Georges Steakhouse and a high-speed thrill ride at Speed Vegas in exotic cars. "It happened so fast. I was starstruck. I am pumped. I always dreamt about coming to Las Vegas, and it wouldn't have happened without BetMGM," said Hooker, recalling the experience. Creating unforgettable moments BetMGM's jackpot program offers more than just monetary rewards - it delivers unforgettable experiences, thanks to its deep partnership with MGM Resorts International. "BetMGM's jackpot program is about creating and delivering once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are made possible through our relationship with MGM Resorts International," said Angus Nisbet, Vice President of Gaming at BetMGM. "It is an unbelievable feeling for us to be a part of these moments with players and share their excitement." Currently live in five markets, BetMGM Casino offers over 5,400 games and one of the largest progressive jackpot networks in the US. Its exclusive titles include Bison Fury, 15 Lanterns, and MGM Grand Millions. Rewarding loyalty and promoting responsibility Players on BetMGM Casino not only compete for big jackpots - they also earn Tier Credits and BetMGM Rewards Points that can be redeemed for MGM Rewards Points and digital bonuses as well as Marriott Bonvoy Points. As the premier operator continues to grow and innovate, responsible gaming remains central to its mission. The platform integrates GameSense, an award-winning program licensed from the British Columbia Lottery Corporation, offering tools and education to help players enjoy a safe and responsible digital experience. GameSense is fully embedded across BetMGM's desktop and mobile platforms and aligns with the player experience offered at MGM Resorts properties nationwide.

After the new pope was selected - and the choice was a big surprise indeed - there has been an influx of new wagers from sports bettors who have 'renewed their faith' on other long shot bets. According to experts, other sports bettors are now placing their bets on teams like the Bears, Villanova University, and more - thanks to the so-called "pope effect." In a surprise twist that caught both religious scholars and sports bettors off guard, Robert Francis Prevost was selected as the new Pope this past Thursday, adopting the name Pope Leo XIV. But despite being listed at +5000 odds at BetMGM - with less than 1 percent of total bets placed on him - a small group of hopeful wagerers cashed in big. The betting market for the next Pope, available only in Ontario, rarely attracts headlines, but the shock of this outcome sent ripple effects well beyond the Vatican. From Chicago to the Vatican Pope Leo XIV's roots are firmly planted in American soil. Born in 1955 Chicago, he earned a mathematics degree from Villanova University in 1977 right before embarking on his religious journey. Though his path to the papacy was unorthodox and unexpected, glimpses of his life in America, including an appearance in Game 1 of the 2005 World Series broadcast between the Houston Astros and the Chicago White Sox, have added to the public fascination. What followed his selection, however, was something no oddsmaker could have predicted: a surge of faith-based bets on sports teams connected to his past. Chicago sports teams experience betting boom Following the papal announcement, sportsbooks across North America were flooded with bets on Chicago's major sports teams. Hard Rock Bet reported record-setting betting activity on both the Cubs and the Bears. Thursday marked the highest single-day volume of wagers on the Cubs to take home the World Series and on the Bears to lay claim on the Super Bowl since those markets first launched. "Sports fans are looking for anything, even potential divine intervention, to help their favorite teams win," said SVP of Sportsbook at Hard Rock Bet, Neil Walsh. "Some of our players look at data, others rely on gut feeling, and in this case, potentially a higher power." ESPN BET echoed that sentiment, reporting that the Bears received more than twice as many Super Bowl bets as any other NFL team in the 24 hours following the Pope's appointment. Chicago quarterback Caleb Williams even fanned the flames with a cryptic tweet, further fueling fan excitement. Interestingly, while the Cubs ranked third in total World Series wagers during that period, the White Sox - despite their connection to the Pope's World Series cameo - didn't receive a single bet. Villanova Wildcats see miraculous betting surge Perhaps the most dramatic spike in wagers came for the Villanova men's basketball team. Currently listed at +8000 to win the 2026 NCAA men's national championship at BetMGM, the Wildcats suddenly became a betting darling. "The interest in Villanova basketball picked up pretty much as soon as we saw the white smoke," said VP of Sportsbook Strategy & Growth at ESPN BET, Adam Landeka. "More than 50 percent of all futures bets and nearly a third of the total handle for next year's NCAA men's title have come in on the Wildcats." At BetMGM, Villanova went from less than 1 percent of national title bets to claiming 22 percent of all such wagers in just one day. Combined data from Hard Rock Bet and ESPN BET also showed that Villanova attracted more bets than all other college basketball teams combined in the wake of the papal announcement. Faith, fandom, and futures The intersection of sports betting and religion is usually nonexistent, but Pope Leo XIV's unexpected rise appears to have inspired a unique blend of devotion and superstition among fans. While divine intervention may not be quantifiable, the numbers coming from sportsbooks are very real - and very unexpected. As fans ride the wave of what some are calling "the Pope Effect," sportsbooks are watching closely. Whether or not Chicago teams or Villanova cut down nets or hoist trophies in the coming seasons, one thing's for certain: Pope Leo XIV has already made an impact well beyond the walls of the Vatican.

The Oklahoma City Thunder collapsed hard in Game 3 when they could not buy a single bucket in overtime against the Denver Nuggets. When they went down 2-1, many fans were quick to criticize the Thunder for their inability to close out tight games. So when they came into Game 4, the approach was different, and it paid off well. The Thunder showed that they can adapt, improvise, and overcome against a team that has so much experience on the big stage. Considering how the Denver Nuggets have been a solid squad over the years, OKC’s perfect response shows a lot about how the Thunder really has been great this season so far. Now they have tied the series, and it is going to be in Oklahoma City once more. As the playoffs continue, road wins continue to steal the show. However, the OKC-DEN series has been a beast, and both teams have managed to respond well in time as they continue to put up impressive game performances. At this point, the fight continues in this series and is likely to bring huge adjustments one game after another. The Response of the Thunder OKC went 10-deep in its roster for Game 4, and it actually paid off as the Thunder saw a promising 35-8 twist on bench points – with Aaron Wiggins, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace combining for eight of OKC’s 10 three-pointers. It was a brilliant game for the Thunder, who took a 21-8 lead early in the second quarter and had control of Game 4. They did, however, go down by six to start the fourth quarter. OKC responded with an 11-0 run from that point and did not keep their foot off the gas – throwing haymakers after haymakers as Denver tried to desperately claw their way back for a win. Eventually, the game went down the wire – to fouls and free throws to end the fourth. OKC executed its plays well down the stretch, very much different compared to the last two games that ended in single digits. It was a promising sight for the Thunder, and they have done a great job of tying this series when it mattered most. The MVP Battle Neither star performed well in this game, but it was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who shined bright on the big stage as he scored nine big points in the fourth quarter to push OKC to a promising victory. He finished the game with 25 points, six rebounds, and six assists on 8-of-19 shooting from the field. On the other hand, Nikola Jokic did not play well to his standards. The 2024 MVP finished with 27 points and 13 rebounds on 7-of-22 shooting. What was surprising is that he only had three assists – the lowest number he had in that regard for the whole playoffs. The game plan has been working for both teams. Denver is forcing SGA to be a playmaker, while OKC is forcing Jokic to be a scorer. So far, that has turned well to be true for both teams while both stars have responded at a great level. What mattered so far is the surrounding players to support them, and OKC’s depth has shown to be a huge advantage in its own right so far. Now that the series will be shifting to OKC, the homecourt advantage also returns to the first seed in the West. This victory by the Thunder has undone any progress that the Nuggets have made, and now they have a prime chance to close this series in six or seven games.

Mark Stone's injury has cast a shadow over the Vegas Golden Knights' playoff aspirations, particularly in their pivotal Game 4 against the Edmonton Oilers. After sustaining an upper-body injury in the first period of Game 3, Stone was ruled out for the remainder of the contest and is considered week-to-week. This marks a significant setback for the Golden Knights, as Stone has been a cornerstone of their offense, contributing 53 points in 56 games during the regular season. Despite his absence, the Golden Knights remain focused on the task at hand. Head coach Bruce Cassidy emphasized the need for the team to rally together and compensate for Stone's absence. "We can make up some of the offense as we go along, but if we play good defense with this team, that generally leads to good offense," Cassidy remarked. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on how the Golden Knights adapt to this challenge and whether they can continue their playoff run without their captain. The Stone Dilemma The Vegas Golden Knights enter tonight’s pivotal Game 4 against the Edmonton Oilers without their captain, Mark Stone, who is sidelined due to an upper-body injury sustained in the first period of Game 3. Despite Stone’s absence, the Golden Knights remain confident in their depth and resilience as they aim to take a commanding 3–1 series lead at T-Mobile Arena. Stone, who led the team with 56 points this season, has been a cornerstone of Vegas' offense. His leadership and scoring ability will be missed, but the Golden Knights have demonstrated their depth throughout the season. “You just have to keep playing, that’s what we did last night. He went into the dressing room and we kept playing,” Vegas forward Ivan Barbashev said on Sunday. “It’s not easy when Stone is not out there, but the guys started to play extra hard.” Players like Jack Eichel, Chandler Stephenson, and William Carrier have stepped up in previous games, and they will need to continue their strong performances in Stone’s absence. Additionally, goaltender Adin Hill is expected to start, bringing stability to the crease. Stone has eight points (four goals, four assists) in nine Stanley Cup Playoff games, including four points (two goals, two assists) in this best-of-7 series, which Vegas trails 2-1 after Reilly Smith won Game 3 by scoring with 0.4 seconds left in the third period. The Chance for the Oilers The Oilers, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, are formidable opponents but have shown vulnerabilities, particularly in their penalty kill. The Golden Knights' power play, ranked seventh in the league, could exploit this weakness to gain an advantage. Vegas' defensive unit will also play a crucial role in containing Edmonton's high-powered offense. While Stone's injury is a significant setback, the Golden Knights' depth, leadership, and strategic play provide a solid foundation for success in Game 4. The team remains focused and determined to continue their playoff run and capitalize on the opportunity to extend their series lead. With the way the Oilers are playing this time, the Golden Knights are expected to be in for a tough struggle without their leading scorer and captain on the ice. Reports are yet to come in surrounding Stone’s availability, so there’s still a lot of hope for their chances to turn this series around as it is tied at 2-2.