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Fanatics Sportsbook has joined the bandwagon of sports betting platforms applying for a license to operate in the state of Missouri, the fifth operator to do so. It has applied for both an online and retail sports betting license, competing with four other sportsbooks for the coveted regulatory licenses. Fanatics Sportsbook is officially setting its sights on Missouri as the company becomes the latest operator to submit an application for both online and retail sports betting licenses in the state. As of now, Fanatics is the fifth betting operator to file for licensure ahead of Missouri's highly anticipated December 1, 2025, launch of legal sports betting. The Missouri Gaming Commission confirmed the dual application, though Fanatics has yet to disclose which in-state casino or professional sports team it intends to partner with for market access. Missouri sports betting market begins to take shape Under Missouri's approved sports betting framework, the Gaming Commission is authorized to issue up to 19 retail and 14 online licenses. Operators have until the 12th of September to submit their applications, provided they are tethered to a qualified partner such as a casino or sports franchise. Fanatics' move comes as part of a wider rush among major sportsbooks to secure early entry into the Missouri market. Currently active in 22 states and Washington, DC, the operator could soon add Missouri as its 23rd jurisdiction if its license applications are approved. So far, applications for online and/or retail operations have also been submitted by DraftKings, Circa Sports, FanDuel, and Underdog. Like Fanatics, Underdog has not yet publicly announced its Missouri partner. Competition intensifies for coveted untethered licenses Not all licenses in Missouri require partnerships. The Gaming Commission is offering two 'untethered' online sports betting licenses, which allow holders to operate without a state-based partner and retain full control over revenues. DraftKings, Circa Sports, and FanDuel have each submitted bids for these highly sought-after licenses. The Missouri Gaming Commission is scheduled to announce the two selected recipients on the 15th of August. Applicants vying for these direct licenses may present their case before the commission during a meeting on August 13. By bypassing the need for a tethered partnership, untethered license holders stand to benefit from greater operational freedom and financial independence. The intense competition among industry giants demonstrates the potential value of Missouri's emerging market. Key dates leading up to sports betting launch As Missouri inches closer to its legal sports betting debut, the state has outlined a clear timeline: August 13: Applicants for untethered online licenses may appear before the commission August 15: Two untethered license recipients will be selected September 12: Deadline for all other partnered license applications December 1: Official launch of Missouri sports betting The Missouri Gaming Commission has already hosted a public hearing to review proposed sports betting regulations. Interestingly, the meeting went forward without any public comments, signaling minimal public resistance or concern at this stage. Aside from operator applications, the Missouri Gaming Commission has also received interest from potential suppliers. These companies provide critical infrastructure and technology to support legal wagering platforms. So far, five entities have applied for sports betting supplier licenses: Catalist, GLI (Gaming Laboratories International), GeoComply, OpticOdds, and Sportradar. Each of these suppliers brings specialized tools and services - from geolocation compliance to real-time odds delivery - essential to maintaining a secure and efficient betting environment. Missouri's sports betting era approaches With Fanatics Sportsbook entering the field and the regulatory process advancing steadily, Missouri appears well on track for a successful sports betting rollout. The coming weeks will be critical, as operators await license decisions and finalize partnerships ahead of the December 1 live date.

A Las Vegas casino located just off the Strip is now home to Nevada’s latest sportsbook, Boomer's Sports Book, which opened last August 4th at the Ellis Island Casino & Brewery. The casino is also in the midst of an overhaul, and the ceremony included Boomer's president and Chief Executive Officer Joe Asher; Gary Ellis, the owner of Ellis Island; Shelley Berkley, Las Vegas' mayor, along with the former mayor of Las Vegas, 86-year old Oscar Goodman. A fresh chapter in Las Vegas sports betting officially began on Monday, the 4th of August, as Boomer's Sports Book celebrated its grand opening at the Ellis Island Casino & Brewery, marking the launch of Nevada's newest sportsbook at one of the city's most iconic off-Strip locations. With a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, the event drew notable figures including Gary Ellis, the owner of Ellis Island; Mayor Shelley Berkley of Las Vegas, Boomer's Chief Executive Officer Joe Asher, and former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, who at 86 years old placed the first official bets. Goodman's wagers included the Las Vegas Raiders to take home the trophy at the Super Bowl and the San Diego Padres to take the World Series title. Boomer's expansion begins in Las Vegas Boomer's Sports Book is the brainchild of Joe Asher, a longtime sports betting executive known for his former roles as Chief Executive Officer of William Hill US and president of sports betting at IGT. The Ellis Island location marks the second Boomer's launch, following its recent debut at Elko's Commercial Casino. A third site is already planned for Henderson's Casino Valle Verde, also owned by Ellis. The sportsbook runs on the IGT PlaySports platform, which will power both the in-person and mobile betting experience. While Boomer's mobile app is available for both Android and iOS devices, Nevada's regulatory requirements mean bettors must register in person before placing any mobile wagers - an approach designed to drive traffic to brick-and-mortar casinos like Ellis Island. "Vegas is the future of this business" For Asher, success begins in Las Vegas. "The future of this business is going to be heavily dependent on what happens here in Las Vegas," he told reporters. The Nevada-only rollout reflects a deliberate strategy focused on building deep roots in the state's sports betting ecosystem before considering wider expansion. With football season on the horizon, Asher says the early focus is on sign-ups and onboarding customers. A $250 deposit match promotion is currently being offered to attract new bettors. Eventually, the company's energy will shift toward creating an engaging and rewarding customer experience. "I'm a sports bettor and I know what matters to sports bettors," Asher said. "All we need is people to give us a shot, and we'll try to earn your business." A strategic move for Ellis Island For Gary Ellis, partnering with Boomer's is part of a larger $35 million expansion and renovation of the Ellis Island property, which began last fall. The off-Strip casino, located just to the south of Flamingo Road on Koval Lane, is banking on the new sportsbook to increase foot traffic and enhance the casino's profile. "Being in the sportsbook business with Joe Asher is like being in the football business with the Kansas City Chiefs," said Ellis. "I've known Joe for many, many years and I've always liked and respected him very much. So, when he decided he was going to take on this venture, I told him I was with it." Boomer's Sports Book is led by a seasoned team with decades of industry experience. Dave Grolman serves as senior VP of sportsbook and customer support operations. Nick Bogdanovich, an inductee of the SBC Sports Betting Hall of Fame, leads trading operations. And heading compliance is A.G. Burnett, a former chair of the NGCB and now a gaming attorney at McDonald Carano. Asher revealed that his goal is to open 10 retail operations throughout Nevada within the next year - a bold but calculated move as the state's sports betting market continues to evolve.

With the threat of One Big Beautiful Bill raising concerns among the gambling public, advocates for horse racing are still hopeful for a reversal of the bill before it is set to take effect next year. Shawn Smeallie, a famed industry lobbyist, showed optimism during a conference on horse racing, stating that there's widespread support in Congress to reverse a provision to limit gambling loss deduction. Horse racing advocates are expressing cautious optimism that a recent and highly contentious tax change impacting gambling deductions will be rolled back before it takes effect in 2026. Speaking at The Jockey Club's Round Table Conference on the 31st of July, industry lobbyist Shawn Smeallie highlighted growing bipartisan support in Congress to undo a provision limiting the deduction of gambling losses. The change - tucked into the recently passed 'Big Beautiful Bill' - caps the amount of gambling losses that can be claimed against winnings at 90%. Critics say this adjustment unfairly punishes bettors and could have unintended consequences for the broader racing industry. "Taxing losses": a dangerous precedent Smeallie, who represents the racing industry through his firm ACG Advocacy, warned that the new rule could result in some gamblers paying taxes on net losses - an unprecedented and illogical situation. "One tax increase that did sneak into the bill, unbeknownst to the very powerful American Gaming Association, was a provision allowing only 90% deduction for gambling losses," said Smeallie. "This would actually create a scenario for gamblers where they would have to pay taxes on their losses." To illustrate, Smeallie presented the case of a bettor with $300,000 in winnings and $320,000 in losses. Under the current law, this player would be allowed to deduct only 90% of their losses ($288,000), meaning they would still be taxed on $12,000 in income - despite losing $20,000 overall for the year. Legislative fix gaining momentum The racing industry isn't alone in calling for the tax change to be reversed. According to Smeallie, legislation has already been introduced in both chambers of Congress to restore full deductibility of gambling losses. He anticipates the fix will be included in a broader tax bill expected this fall. Several key senators from both parties are backing the reversal, including Sen. Ted Cruz from Texas, Sen. Bill Hagerty from Tennessee, and Nevada Democrats Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Sen. Jacky Rosen. Their support reflects a growing consensus that the 90% deduction cap is unworkable for high-volume gamblers and detrimental to gaming-related industries. Powerful stakeholders, such as the American Gaming Association, have also joined the effort, aligning with racing advocates to protect the interests of bettors and the businesses that rely on their activity. Bonus depreciation victory shows industry's clout While the 90% rule remains a concern, Smeallie highlighted one major win for racing in the final version of the Big Beautiful Bill: permanent 100% bonus depreciation. This tax incentive, which allows for full write-offs of qualifying property like equipment and fencing, barns, and certain horse expenditures, had been at risk earlier in the legislative process. "Making 100% bonus depreciation permanent was a huge victory," said Smeallie. "It allows for long-term planning by owners and farms and provides much-needed stability." Call to action for industry leaders Smeallie concluded his remarks with a rallying cry to the Round Table audience, urging continued engagement with lawmakers on Capitol Hill. He emphasized the critical role of grassroots influence within the racing community. "Many of you in this room have personal relationships with policymakers in Washington," he said. "Your voices make a difference with key decision-makers. We need your help on issues important to the industry, and I can assure you, there will always be issues." He also pointed to other emerging legislative concerns, including labor visa policies affecting backstretch workers and threats to the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority. The message was clear: vigilance, communication, and unity will be essential as the industry navigates a challenging policy landscape. "We are a national, nationwide industry, not without controversy," Smeallie said. "If this (depreciation) tax change should rear its ugly head again, we need our champions ready, able, and willing."

A 50-person coalition of Attorneys General has called on the US Department of Justice to take action against the looming threat of unregulated gambling platforms located offshore. In a letter sent to US Attorney General Pam Bondi, the group asked the DOJ to give priority to the targeting of illicit sports betting and iGaming operations that are outside the laws and regulations of the United States. A powerful bipartisan alliance of 50 Attorneys General from across the United States is calling on the US Department of Justice to step up its efforts to enforce against offshore gambling operations that they say are undermining consumer protections and siphoning off critical state tax revenue. In a strongly worded letter to US Attorney General Pam Bondi, the coalition called on the Department of Justice to take immediate and aggressive action against unlicensed, offshore online sportsbooks and casino platforms operating outside the boundaries of US law. Rampant illegal activity threatens US markets According to the coalition, illegal offshore gambling platforms are thriving by evading US regulatory oversight. Many of these operations are based overseas and lack licensure, security controls, and the consumer safeguards required by regulated state operators. These unlawful gambling platforms expose users - particularly minors and vulnerable populations - to significant risk, the letter states. They not only operate outside our legal framework, but they also facilitate problem gambling, financial crimes, and fraud. The Attorneys General expressed deep concern over the platforms' ability to bypass US laws and reach American consumers directly, often through aggressive online marketing and unregulated payment processing systems. The group estimates that illegal online gambling could exceed $400 billion annually, costing states more than $4 billion in lost tax revenue. Coalition calls for DOJ action To confront this growing challenge, the Attorneys General proposed a multi-pronged strategy for federal enforcement, leveraging existing laws and partnerships. Specifically, the letter calls on the DOJ to: Utilize the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) to seek injunctive relief and block consumer access to illegal gambling websites; Seize assets - which includes websites, servers, and profits - tied to offshore gaming operators in violation of federal law; Coordinate with state authorities, payment processors, and financial institutions to dismantle the financial networks that support illegal online gambling. The DOJ has the tools to tackle this threat head-on, the letter states. What's needed now is the will to act in defense of American consumers and the integrity of our lawful gaming markets. Broad bipartisan support across the country The letter was co-signed and sponsored by Attorneys General William Tong of Connecticut, Andrea Joy Campbell of Massachusetts, Mike Hilgers of Nebraska, and Derek Brown of Utah. In total, AGs from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five US territories - including the US Virgin Islands and American Samoa - signed on in support of the initiative. This united front represents one of the largest bipartisan coalitions formed on the issue of gambling enforcement in recent years, signaling a strong and growing consensus that federal inaction can no longer be tolerated. A role for NAAG and ongoing collaboration The letter was issued in coordination with the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG), a nonpartisan organization that facilitates cooperation among US Attorneys General. NAAG emphasized its ongoing role in promoting bipartisan dialogue and legal collaboration to address complex, multistate challenges such as offshore gambling. As the legal gaming market in the US continues to expand, with sports betting now legal in over 30 states, lawmakers are increasingly concerned about the unchecked rise of offshore operators. Today's action marks a critical moment in the push to close loopholes and protect the gains made by regulated state markets. A full copy of the letter is available on NAAG's website.

General Manager Craig Conroy has reaffirmed his commitment to a long‑term youth‑first strategy heading into the 2025‑26 season. Despite pressure from the opening of free agency, he declined to make splash signings, choosing instead to uphold the plan he laid out when joining the club in 2023. He emphasized that giving opportunities to young prospects is non‑negotiable, even if other teams are loading up with veteran additions. Conroy acknowledged the pull of short‑term gains but reinforced that sidestepping the rebuild in pursuit of immediate improvement would undermine opportunities for prospects. He stressed the importance of roster spots staying open for players like Matt Coronato, Connor Zary, and Dustin Wolf to earn their place. He sees competition itself as a catalyst for development and motivation. This philosophy extends beyond lip service. Conroy has communicated directly to veterans and younger players that lineup spots aren't guaranteed. He wants a meritocracy where players must "come take a jersey" through training camp and earn ice time. It’s a clear shift toward accountability and internal competition. Young Core Living Up to Expectations? The Flames nearly made the playoffs last season, finishing at 96 points and missing out on a wild‑card berth by one regulation win. Conroy sees that performance as proof that his youth‑led strategy is starting to bear fruit. He expects key young contributors – Coronato (47 points), Zary (27 points), Pospisil (25 points), and rookie Dustin Wolf between the pipes – to take another step forward. Wolf, in particular, emerged as a cornerstone. He posted a stellar .910 save percentage, ranking among the top rookie goaltenders in the NHL, and is rumored to be in negotiations for a long‑term role in Calgary. His development underscores Conroy’s belief that building from within can anchor the franchise’s future. Conroy also identified several prospects on the cusp – like Zayne Parekh, Sam Morton, Kevin Bahl, Brayden Pachal, and Matthew Coronato – as contenders to crack the NHL roster this season. He expects these players to push veterans for minutes and become foundational pieces in Calgary’s retool. Can they Climb the Win Column? Conroy has consistently urged patience from both veterans and fans. He differentiates between a rebuild and a retool: the Flames are fully embracing a complete overhaul, not just tweaking around the edges. He views the current season as a vital stepping‑stone toward sustained competitiveness. He’s asked veteran leaders like Nazem Kadri, Jonathan Huberdeau, Mikael Backlund and MacKenzie Weegar to support the youth movement, blending experience with promising talent. Conroy insists that this hybrid model – of young core development supported by steady veterans – is the path forward. Across various discussions on sports outlets, fans and analysts alike note that Calgary is becoming a desirable destination for players seeking opportunity. Observers highlight “prove-it” contracts and a transparent culture that rewards performance. This environment, Conroy hopes, will cultivate a sustainable, winning team by the late 2020s. There’s indeed a huge difference as to how the Flames are making up their approach for this, starting with the increased pressure on their young players to come up with a standing push on the bigger stages of the game and to adapt even more. For starter, the playoffs were very close to their grasp last season, and fulfilling that with no big tweaks in the regular season stands to be a much more promising feat than building a team with instant proven stars. If this is the case for the Flames, then one can expect to see more intense growth from the young players in the roster and may likely end up on the upper echelon of the league once more.

The Cincinnati Masters reunites Alcaraz and Sinner soon after another epic clash – Sinner defeated Alcaraz in four sets to win Wimbledon, leveling their head‑to‑head rivalry in high‑stakes final matches. Their rivalry, informally dubbed “Sincaraz,” is a defining storyline of this era, with Alcaraz leading the overall series at 8-5, though Sinner has had the upper hand on fast, hard courts, while Alcaraz has dominated slower surfaces and clay finals. Both players skipped the Canadian Masters, endorsing a strategic approach toward peak performance in Cincinnati and the upcoming US Open. Sinner defends a large haul of points as the 2024 Cincinnati champion, while Alcaraz can make a significant climb if he redistributes some of his clay‑court success to the hard‑court Masters 1000 events. Ultimately, Cincinnati presents more than just a tournament: it marks the first stage in the final hard‑court push of the year. For Sinner, it's defending momentum. For Alcaraz, it's restarting it. And for fans, the prospect of another Alcaraz‑Sinner showdown promises drama, storyline depth, and stakes that go beyond a single trophy. An Alcaraz Comeback Carlos Alcaraz is scheduled to make his return at the 2025 Cincinnati Masters, kicking off his North American hard‑court swing from August  7 to 18, 2025. The world No. 2 opted to skip the Canadian Open, pausing competition for nearly a month after the Wimbledon final loss to Jannik Sinner and easing some lingering muscle issues. During this break, he trained extensively at the Real Sociedad Club de Campo in Murcia – often alongside younger players like Dani Mérida – to transition from grass to hard‑court play and manage physical recovery. Alcaraz enters Cincinnati with momentum, having won five titles in 2025 – including Monte Carlo, Rome, Roland Garros, and the Italian Open, where he defeated Sinner in the final. That Rome triumph added his seventh Masters 1000 crown and completed his set of clay‑court majors. His renewed focus on the ATP Year‑End No. 1 race means a strong Cincinnati showing could help chip away at Sinner’s lead in the standings. However, Alcaraz’s Cincinnati track record has been mixed. He was runner‑up in 2023 to Novak Djokovic, but exited in a surprise second‑round loss last year to Gaël Monfils. This makes the 2025 edition important both for his confidence and ranking aspirations. Sinner on the Loose Again Reigning champion and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner is confirmed for Cincinnati, returning after skipping Toronto and enjoying rest post‑Wimbledon victory. Sinner arrived in Ohio early – on August 3 – alongside his longtime coach Darren Cahill, dismissing speculation about a coaching change and reaffirming team stability. The Italian is in excellent form, having won Wimbledon on July 13 to claim his fourth Grand Slam singles title and extended his hold on the No. 1 ranking since June 2024. His last Masters 1000 title came at Shanghai in 2024, and he seeks to claim his first of 2025 – and defend last year’s Cincinnati crown, where he beat Frances Tiafoe in straight sets. In training visuals shared from Monte Carlo, Sinner is seen fine-tuning his slice backhand and other tactical elements in preparation for hard courts – a potential sign of his evolving strategy this season. So far, both of these glimpses from both stars only say a lot about how both Alcaraz and Sinner are going all-in to the final stretch of the ATP Tour season, especially with the US Open bringing bigger stakes for both players to maximize their chances and add more to their points tally.

In a stunning weekend in early August 2025, the Miami Marlins delivered baseball’s most unexpected jolt: they swept the New York Yankees in a three‑game series, marking the first time in franchise history that they've ever accomplished such a feat. The defining 7-3 victory on Sunday not only sealed the sweep but also pushed the Marlins to a 55‑55 record, bringing them exactly to .500 for the first time since mid‑April. That sweep also carried a remarkable statistic: Miami now owns a 25‑24 record, including postseason, against New York, making the Marlins the only MLB franchise with a winning record versus the Yankees. That narrow but historic edge puts the Marlins ahead not only of the storied Dodgers but also ahead of the Nationals/Expos, Tigers, and Cardinals, all of which trail New York in head‑to‑head history by comparison. If anything, that should definitely belittle the dominance of the Dodgers-Yankees rivalry at this point. It should be put to shame that it is even called a rivalry when there are the Marlins, who have managed to put up a winning record over one of the most legendary clubs to have ever played the fields in Major League Baseball. A Weekend of Drama and Momentum Friday began with a bang as it flashed a wild 13-12 comeback victory that set the tone. The Yankees raced out to a 6-0 and later 9-4 lead, only for Miami to rally with a six‑run seventh, highlighted by a walk‑off winner in the ninth. Saturday saw a more controlled affair, saw a rookie catcher delivering two solo home runs. Marlins pitching, led by a gem from young starter Eury Pérez, blanked New York 2-0. The bullpen preserved the shutout into the late innings. On Sunday, Miami completed the sweep with a convincing 7-3 win. Edward Cabrera twirled six innings of two‑hit ball with seven strikeouts. Mid‑game, Kyle Stowers belted a three‑run home run that put the game out of reach. Rookie Jakob Marsee added an RBI triple to extend the lead further. Despite being a relatively young franchise with less than three decades of history, the Marlins now boast a rare distinction: they are the only team in Major League Baseball with a winning record over the Yankees. That edge may seem narrow, but baseball's long memories and head‑to‑head tallies make it monumental. That post‑season result is key. Miami’s six‑game upset of New York in the 2003 World Series still looms large – an upset which effectively put Miami one game ahead in the overall tally thanks to postseason counting in full head‑to‑head records. Add their regular season wins, and the aggregate positions the Marlins just above the Bombers. Redefining a Rivalry At first glance it seems odd: a young franchise shaking up one of the most iconic dynasties in sports. But the Marlins’ surge, head‑to‑head edge, and historic sweep have reshaped how baseball fans view rivalries. If one measures by direct results, postseason upset, and a long‑overdue weekend sweep, the Marlins, yes – you read that right – now stand as the one team the Yankees cannot claim a winning edge over. Over their last 44 games, Miami has posted a 30-14 record, the best in all of baseball over that span. That surge has transformed them from cellar dwellers to legitimate National League Wild Card contenders. In the unforgiving ledger of baseball history, on this scale, Miami has become New York’s rival – not by geography or tradition, but by results.

The American Gambling Awards is on the horizon again, and this year, it welcomes new judges, fresh perspectives, and more expertise when it comes to the process of selection. The American Gambling Awards is also set to pick its nominees across 12 categories, including Online Sportsbook of the Year, Online Casino of the Year, a brand-new award, Advisor of the Year, and many more. The 2025 American Gambling Awards promises to be more influential and forward-looking than ever, as the program welcomes a fresh slate of esteemed judges. This year's panel includes a blend of new and returning leaders, all recognized for their deep expertise and transformative impact on the US online gambling sector. Influential new voices join esteemed judging panel Among the latest additions to the panel are George Rover, the executive director of the Responsible Gaming Affiliate Association; Jay Deuskar, the CTO and co-founder of PrizePicks; Thomas Winter, responsible for spearheading Golden Nugget's success online and now serves on the board of Rush Street Interactive; and Ryan Spoon, the president of Yahoo Media Group. These industry veterans will join returning judges, including Amy Howe, Chief Executive Officer of FanDuel; Jason Robins, Chief Executive Officer of DraftKings; and Adam Greenblatt, Chief Executive Officer of BetMGM. Together, the panel represents a dynamic cross-section of the online gambling ecosystem - from product development and media to regulatory and responsible gaming leadership. The diverse mix ensures a balanced and insightful evaluation process for award nominees, bringing both technical insight and visionary leadership to the table. A celebration of excellence and innovation Presented by the Gambling.com Group, the American Gambling Awards is the only US program exclusively honoring achievements in the online gambling sector. Now in its fifth year, the program has grown into a premier industry event, shining a spotlight on trailblazers and game-changers. "The American Gambling Awards were created to recognize the people and organizations driving progress in the US online gambling industry," said the CEO and co-founder of the Gambling.com Group, Charles Gillespie. "Now in our fifth year, the program has evolved into an elite celebration of leadership, innovation, and excellence. We're proud to continue shining a spotlight on the individuals and companies pushing our industry forward." New award category highlights strategic impact For 2025, the program introduces a new twist with the launch of the 'Advisor of the Year' category. Replacing the former 'Dealmaker of the Year,' this new honor broadens its focus beyond transactions, recognizing firms and individuals whose financial, strategic, or legal advisories have had a lasting influence on the future of the US gambling industry. In total, there are 12 award categories for this year, including Online Sportsbook of the Year, Online Casino of the Year, Betting Product of the Year, Gaming Product of the Year, Platform Provider of the Year, Data Service Provider of the Year, Responsible Gaming Award, Payment Service Provider of the Year, Advisor of the Year (New), Policymaker of the Year, Regulator of the Year, and C-Suite Gaming Executive of the Year. Key dates and prestigious ceremony Nominations are now open and must be submitted by August 8. Finalists will be announced on August 26, with winners revealed on October 6. The celebration culminates in an exclusive, invitation-only dinner on November 19 at Italian restaurant Torrisi in NYC - a Michelin-starred venue known for its elegance and intimate ambiance. Each winner will be awarded the iconic trophy, an 11-inch, cast-pewter, gold-plated statuette created by Society Awards - the same firm behind the Golden Globes and Emmys. Featuring an American Bald Eagle set before casino chips, the trophy is a symbol of excellence and prestige in the digital gaming world. As the American online gambling sector continues to evolve, the 2025 American Gambling Awards sets the tone for what excellence means in a fast-growing and increasingly competitive market. With a judging panel brimming with visionaries and innovators, this year's awards are set to be the most impactful yet. For more details, including nomination forms and category descriptions, visit the official awards website at gambling.com/us/awards.

Kansas has welcomed a 7th sportsbook operator in the state - renowned sports betting platform bet365 has joined other sports wagering entities who are already operating in Kansas, such as DraftKings, BetMGM, FanDuel, Caesars, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics. The Kansas sports betting market is thriving since it began operations in 2022, and the state also offers retail betting at three land-based casinos. British-based gaming giant bet365 has officially launched its online sportsbook in Kansas, making it the seventh operator to enter the state's expanding sports betting market. The company's debut comes just in time for the 2025 NFL season, offering Kansas City Chiefs loyal fans a new platform for placing wagers on their favorite team and across a wide variety of wagering markets. This move marks bet365's 14th entry into a regulated US market, continuing the brand's steady push into the competitive American sports betting landscape. Kansas sports betting market gets more competitive Kansas began allowing both online and in-person sports betting in 2022, and the market has quickly become competitive. Bet365 joins major players already operating in the state, including DraftKings, BetMGM, FanDuel, Caesars, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics. The state also supports retail sports betting through three licensed brick-and-mortar casinos. With the arrival of bet365, Kansas bettors now have increased choice and access to innovative platforms just as the football season heats up. Recent US expansion efforts Kansas has become the third US state in which bet365 has launched its operations in 2025 alone. In March, the company debuted in Illinois through a mobile and retail partnership with Walker's Bluff Casino Resort. Just a few days later, bet365 made its way into Tennessee, receiving a license from the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council and becoming the 12th approved online sportsbook in the Volunteer State. Looking ahead, the operator is preparing for a Missouri launch, pending the state's legalization of online sports betting later this year. Bet365 already has a market access agreement in place with the St. Louis Cardinals, which includes a multiyear marketing partnership. Support for women's sports grows Aside from its market expansions, bet365 has also deepened its involvement in women's professional sports. This summer, the operator signed a multiyear deal with the WNBA's Chicago Sky, becoming an official partner of the franchise. The partnership includes bet365 branding all through Wintrust Arena, as well as promotional campaigns across social media and television. In addition, bet365 inked a separate deal with the Indiana Fever, marking its second official partnership with a US women's sports team. The agreement provides marketing visibility across radio broadcasts, digital platforms, and the Fever's mobile app. Plans are also in place for fan engagement activities that further strengthen ties between the sportsbook and the WNBA community. Kansas licensing developments influence launch timing Bet365's entry into Kansas comes amid notable legislative changes surrounding sports betting licenses. Earlier this year, Kansas lawmakers passed Senate Bill 125 - a budget measure that temporarily blocks license extensions for sportsbooks operating under the Kansas Lottery. The bill restricts the Lottery from negotiating or entering into any new contracts or extensions with current sportsbook operators until after the 30th of June, 2026. While the measure doesn't affect bet365's immediate entry, it creates an uncertain future for license renewals in the state beyond the current operating period. As Kansas sports fans gear up for another NFL season, bet365's launch adds new flavor to an already dynamic wagering market. With its user-friendly interface and deep market offerings as well as ongoing support for women's sports, bet365 continues to position itself as a serious contender in the fast-growing US gaming space. Whether its expansion into Missouri goes as smoothly remains to be seen, but if Kansas is any indication, the British bookmaker is betting big on America - and winning.

The NIGC, or the National Indian Gaming Commission, has announced its revenue earnings for fiscal year 2024: a record total of $43.9 billion. The revenue is a significant increase of $2 billion from 2023, and it represents growth of at least 4% over the entire Indian gaming sector. The National Indian Gaming Commission, or the NIGC, has announced a record-breaking $43.9 billion in Gross Gaming Revenue for 2024 fiscal year, and the total revenue marks a $2 billion increase from the previous year and a 4.6% overall growth across the entire tribal gaming industry. This historic figure highlights the continuing strength and resilience of tribal gaming as a powerful economic engine for Native American communities. A testament to tribal resilience and leadership In a statement released alongside the report, National Indian Gaming Commission Acting Chairwoman Sharon Avery emphasized the significance of the milestone. "This year's GGR reflects not only the resilience of the tribal gaming industry, but also the dedication of tribal leadership in preserving and growing this important economic driver for their communities," she said. Avery credited strong and robust tribal governance as well as a tough regulatory framework for ensuring the integrity and sustainability of the industry. The revenue figures were compiled from the financial statements of 532 gaming operations, which were independently audited, and these gaming operations are run by 243 federally-recognized tribes in a total of 29 states. The Gross Gaming Revenue figure - defined as the total amount wagered by players minus the winnings paid out - serves as a primary measure of industry health. Regional success: Oklahoma City and Washington, DC lead the strongest growth While the overall national increase was substantial, the NIGC highlighted two regions in particular - the areas of Oklahoma City and Washington, DC - as standouts, each reporting double-digit growth compared to the prior fiscal year of 2023. The surge in these areas reflects not just increased player activity but also effective management and reinvestment strategies by tribal casino operators. Jeannie Hovland, the NIGC's Vice Chair, demonstrated the wide-ranging benefits of tribal gaming revenue for Native communities. "These revenue numbers demonstrate the positive impacts of tribal gaming and the essential role it plays supporting tribal sovereignty, job growth, infrastructure, education, and important social, health, and welfare programs in tribal communities - just to name a few," Hovland stated. With many tribes using gaming revenue to fund vital services, education programs, and community development projects, the latest figures signal sustained growth not only for the gaming industry but also for tribal self-determination and economic empowerment. Regulation at the heart of sustainable growth The NIGC uses annual GGR data to help guide regulatory policy under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The agency continues to work closely with tribal regulators to ensure compliance, integrity, and long-term sustainability within the industry. "NIGC remains committed to working with Tribes and their regulators to ensure the long-term integrity and success of Indian gaming," Hovland added. As the tribal gaming industry continues to evolve, the latest Gross Gaming Revenue record milestone offers a strong indication of its enduring viability. With continued collaboration between the NIGC and tribal governments, the industry is well-poised to navigate future challenges while maintaining its role as a pillar of economic development and cultural preservation. The full FY 2024 GGR report, including a detailed regional breakdown, is available on the NIGC's official website at nigc.gov.

The Miami Dolphins have officially secured one of the NFL’s most productive interior defenders for the long haul. Defensive tackle Zach Sieler has signed a three-year contract extension worth up to $67.75 million, including $44 million guaranteed, according to reports from ESPN and NFL.com. The deal makes him the highest-paid defensive player in Dolphins history and one of the top‑paid DTs in the league by average annual value. Sieler’s journey to stardom is one of NFL perseverance. A seventh-round draft pick by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, he was waived early in his career but claimed by Miami in December 2019. Over six seasons in South Florida, he transformed into a full-time starter and a force in the middle of the Dolphins’ defensive front. His breakout came in 2023 with 10 sacks and consistent elite play carried into the 2024 season: 55 combined tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, and one forced fumble. Pro Football Focus gave him a 78.6 overall grade, ranking him 12th among 219 qualifying interior defenders. Now he has a chance to further extend his legacy in Miami. A Rewarding Deal for a Rewarding Player Sieler’s contract nearly doubles his average annual salary, raising it to around $22.5 million per year, up from roughly $10 million under his previous deal. With $44 million guaranteed, the extension reflects the Dolphins' confidence in his durability and impact. Coach Mike McDaniel praised Sieler’s professionalism throughout negotiations. Despite uncertainty around his future, Sieler showed up to mandatory minicamp and training camp every day – a demonstration of leadership that resonated deeply with Miami’s coaching staff and roster. The timing of Sieler’s deal is particularly significant for Miami’s defense. The team is navigating the offseason after losing cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Steelers and safety Jevon Holland to the Giants, weakening their back end. This extension provides continuity and a foundational piece in their bid to return to playoff contention after finishing 8–9 last season. As training camp progresses, injuries have piled up elsewhere, intensifying the need for leadership from the trenches. While right tackle Austin Jackson recovers and fullback Alec Ingold enters concussion protocol, Sieler remained steadfast, present, focused, and now, fully invested in Miami’s future. Leadership Remains Strong Sieler was an active participant in mandatory minicamp and the first ten days of training camp despite ongoing negotiations with the franchise, underscoring the professional standard he sets for teammates. A team captain, he emphasized that while the money and respect earned for his family matter greatly, “at the end of the day, we’re here to play football”. Former Dolphins quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who played with Sieler in 2019–20, publicly endorsed him, saying that if Sieler were a first‑round pick or paid based on production, he’d already be making north of $20 million per year – placing him among names like Leonard Williams or DeForest Buckner. With the extension locking Sieler in through 2027, the Dolphins can anchor their defensive strategy around him, especially if pressure weapons Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb return to full form. Sieler’s production behind a rotating cast suggests he is as much a stabilizer as he is a playmaker. For Sieler, this contract represents financial security and recognition of a career built through sacrifice – from a seldom‑used rookie to a cornerstone franchise figure. It’s a testament not just to performance, but to character.