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Believe it or not, the Columbus Crew’s wonder season has finally ended in a shocking fashion – at the hands of the New York Red Bulls. Now it seems that the latter club has become quite a fan favorite heading into the next stretch of the playoffs, and they may even be a rising contender to win the MLS Cup now more than ever. Perhaps one of the biggest turnarounds of the MLS season, it does seem that the New York Red Bulls now have a golden opportunity to make the most of its chances and deliver a decisive push to the top of the league with the hopes of marking down its name on the biggest stage of the league. Beating the Columbus Crew is a massive victory, and that means one of the heavy favorites to win the league title – alongside Inter Miami, Los Angeles FC, and LA Galaxy – are now knocked out of the picture and will no longer thrill the crowd with its elite performances. New York grabbed the first win in the series, before finally clinching a thriller shootout in the second game to close out the ordeal. A Thriller to Remember The Crew looked in control early, taking a 3-1 lead in the shootout, but Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel became the hero, making crucial saves against Yevhen Cheberko, Max Arfsten, and Alexandru Mățan to extend the shootout to a dramatic seventh round. With the pressure on, homegrown midfielder Daniel Edelman coolly converted his penalty, securing the Red Bulls' 4-3 shootout win and sending them to the conference semifinals for the first time since 2018, ending a five-year streak of early playoff exits. The match saw a tense first half, before Arfsten’s 55th-minute goal gave Columbus the lead. New York responded with goals from Dante Vanzeir and Emil Forsberg, but Christian Ramirez’s stoppage-time equalizer forced penalties. Despite two key saves from Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte, Edelman’s successful penalty sealed the Red Bulls' victory and sent the crowd into raptures. New York now joins the Seattle Sounders, LA Galaxy, and the Minnesota United as the only four teams to advance to the next round as of the time of writing, and one can say that there are now high expectations for the Red Bulls to actually make the most of its chances as a new contender in picture now more than ever. Odds on the Table New York now finds itself just sixth in the odds list as of the time of writing. There are many people who have betted against the Red Bulls so far, but this upset win really changes the dynamics now more than ever, and it cannot be denied that there are now bigger expectations for them to make the best out of their run this time. Considering that the team finds itself facing against either contenders Cincinnati or their home rivals New York City FC, it is going to be a fun ride from that end. As of the time of writing, the Red Bulls stand with odds of +1,497 to win the competition, and while that isn’t a lot at first, it is worth noting that the competition is now closing down to its final moments. That just means that the Red Bulls are expected to make some good push towards the big goal. Who knows, maybe they can even knock off a championship this time around and deliver a huge performance that will see them sit at the top of the MLS World now more than ever.

Veteran forward Tyler Johnson now suits up for the Boston Bruins on a much more regular basis after impressing in his tryout agreement and now signing a new deal with the Bruins. Johnson inked a $775,000 contract with the team with the hopes of getting some key playing minutes with the team moving forward and is expected to make some good performances fro the Bruins. There were a lot of talks as to how the Bruins already liked Johnson to be a part of their squad back in training camp. However, the team had to wait for some complications to die down and for the team to bank all the available salary against the cap. The same situation was seen in the team’s signing of Danton Heinen last year – who was signed October 30th back then. Johnson, however, managed to impressed well when he played for the Bruins in the preseason – drawing a lot of praise from both teammates and the coaching staff. That proved to be pivotal in the team’s decision to wait out the cap and finally go all-in on him by bringing in a swashbuckler on the center and even wing position. A Boost in Johnson Johnson boasts a promising presence on the front for the Bruins this season as one of the prolific scorers in the game. Last season with the Chicago Blackhawks, the forward had 17 goals and 14 assists in 67 games, making him quite the reliable spark that the Bruins could use off the bench. For many analysts, that signing makes a lot of sense, and the Bruins are definitely all in on him. One thing that Johnson actually brings to the table is his versatility – the ability to play down the wing side and even the middle – which helps Boston create a much more fluid lineup that can pack a serious punch on the offensive end. Even bringing him as the bottom six will give him more presence on the attack and enable the Bruins to maximize its lineup changes from time to time. On top of that, he can take off minutes for potential injuries and even manage matchups against other teams, and that says a lot about his impressive value on the team and what makes him a good signing at this point in time. Sure, he is not much to be projected as a 50-point scorer at this point, but it cannot be denied that his support role will be of much value heading into the rest of the season. Veteran Presence Again The presence of Matthew Poitras, Morgan Geekie, John Beecher, and Cole Koepke has been really thrilling to watch for the Bruins in the previous season. However, it is evident that they really needed the veteran presence in the team in the Playoffs. That’s why bringing in Johnson also appears to be a good move at this point in time. The Bruins have needed more support for its top scorers, and while Johnson is not a high-point scorer, it is worth noting that he brings a lot of impact for the team. At the age of 34, Johnson has already spent 12 seasons in the NHL. That includes nine with the Tampa Bay Lightning and three with the Blackhawks – landing two Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021 as well. At this point, many fans can expect that Johnson will be a reliable piece for the Bruins, and it is expected that he can make a major difference for the team and ensure their chances for the playoffs this season.

An offshore cryptocurrency casino was reportedly hacked just this week. Metawin, an online casino platform dealing only in cryptocurrency that offers slots, live casino games, and more, announced that it was hacked through its frictionless withdrawal system via its 'hot wallets.' An online gaming platform specializing in cryptocurrency transactions, MetaWin, fell victim to a sophisticated cyberattack this week, costing the platform $4 million in funds. The company's Chief Executive Officer, Richard Skelhorn, confirmed the breach after blockchain investigator ZachXBT uncovered the exploit on a blockchain Telegram channel. MetaWin, an offshore gaming site, offers an array of services, including interactive slots, instant-win games, live dealer games like blackjack and poker, and nonfungible token or NFT raffles. The platform also hosts daily and weekly 'betting races' which reward players based on the volume of their bets, with top weekly prizes reaching up to $40,000. Although the online casino is headquartered in London, it operates offshore through a license issued by Anjouan, an island nation located off Africa's southeastern coast. MetaWin does not hold a license to operate in the United States. Despite its offshore status, MetaWin has attracted a substantial following, though regulators frequently caution against the risks associated with unlicensed platforms. Regulators warn that such sites often lack consumer protections, leaving players vulnerable to financial losses if security measures fail. Details of the hack: $4 million in crypto stolen The breach reportedly targeted MetaWin's "hot wallets" - cryptocurrency wallets connected to the internet to facilitate transactions. Hot wallets, while efficient for frequent transfers, are more vulnerable to hacking than "cold wallets," which store digital currency offline, providing greater security against cyber threats. ZachXBT's analysis revealed that the attackers exploited MetaWin's frictionless withdrawal system, enabling them to drain approximately $4 million from the platform's hot wallets. Once seized, the stolen funds were quickly moved to cryptocurrency exchanges HitBTC and KuCoin, where they were nested in a cold wallet to evade detection. ZachXBT tracked over 115 addresses linked to the hackers, highlighting the scale and sophistication of the attack. Reacting swiftly, Skelhorn addressed the incident in a statement on November 3, confirming the breach and outlining plans to increase security. "Today, we experienced an attack where an exploiter was able to withdraw a significant amount from our hot wallets by taking advantage of our frictionless withdrawal system," Skelhorn said. "We'll be implementing additional security controls for new users, while also exploring ways to maintain a flexible and seamless experience for our trusted community." In response to the loss, Skelhorn has committed to covering the $4 million shortfall himself. "In short, today we faced a challenge, but we're learning from it and will emerge stronger," he stated, assuring affected users that their funds would be restored. Mastering the iGaming industry Skelhorn's experience in the digital gaming and marketing industry is extensive. He founded Atemi Group in 2015, a company specializing in social media advertising and lead generation in iGaming. Atemi's success in directing traffic and new customers to online casinos and sportsbooks attracted the attention of Better Collective, a Danish media firm, which acquired Atemi for around $48 million in 2020. Atemi's success was significant: in 2020 alone, the company directed over 180,000 new depositing customers to its global partners. Better Collective, which owns prominent brands like The Action Network, VegasInsider, and SportsHandle, continues to benefit from Atemi's established reputation and marketing prowess. Skelhorn's experience and resources have been instrumental in MetaWin's success, but the recent cyberattack shows the ongoing challenges facing online casinos reliant on cryptocurrency. Ongoing risks in offshore gaming MetaWin's breach reinforces concerns from regulators about the risks associated with unlicensed gaming sites, especially those dealing in cryptocurrency. Players are often drawn to offshore casinos by the promise of anonymity and ease of access, but the recent hack demonstrates the potential dangers of trusting unregulated platforms. As online gaming and digital assets converge, the MetaWin incident could prompt further discussions on tightening cybersecurity regulations for offshore platforms. For now, Skelhorn's handling of the breach may offer a temporary reprieve for MetaWin, but the long-term implications remain uncertain.

Rush Street Interactive has just launched online poker through BetRivers Poker, and the launch comes on the heels of the RSI acquisition of Run It Once Poker in 2022. BetRivers Poker makes its debut in Pennsylvania, with various poker games and tournaments available. Rush Street Interactive, a major player in the online casino and sports betting industry, has officially launched BetRivers Poker, a real money poker platform for US players. This milestone follows RSI's acquisition of Phil Galfond's Run It Once Poker in March of 2022 for $5.8 million. Galfond, a well-known poker professional and founder of the original Run It Once platform, collaborated closely with RSI on BetRivers Poker, bringing years of player-first insights and innovations to the project. With this launch, the American online poker landscape receives a significant boost, adding an eagerly anticipated option for players. The collaboration with Galfond has resulted in a platform dedicated to fairness, rewards, and engagement for all types of players, from novices to seasoned professionals. "As poker players, we designed this platform from the ground up to be for the players - all players," Galfond stated in the official release. "I've been heavily involved in game design, promotions, policy decisions, and in building a team that sees online poker as I do. Our goal was to create a fair and rewarding experience that's exciting for everyone." Where to play BetRivers Poker The debut of BetRivers Poker in Pennsylvania marks the first phase of RSI's multi-state rollout plan, with expansions to other regions anticipated. Pennsylvanians can now sign up for BetRivers Poker and enjoy exclusive welcome bonuses. New players are eligible for a 100% match bonus of up to $1,000 using the code: POKER. Access to the platform is available through a desktop client compatible with Windows and Mac, and mobile apps for both iPhone and Android are slated for release in the near future. The site is designed to make the gaming experience accessible and engaging for players of all backgrounds. Unique features and poker games BetRivers Poker has been built with an emphasis on user-friendly innovations inspired by Run It Once Poker. Among these is the HeroIQ HUD, an integrated 'Heads-Up Display' that offers insights into gameplay patterns without the need for third-party software. Players can also benefit from randomized screen names and fair play auto-seating, which are aimed at leveling the playing field. One of the standout features is the dynamic avatar system, which changes in response to players' in-game actions. These avatars give visual cues about opponents' play styles, adding a new layer of engagement to the poker experience. For game formats, BetRivers Poker offers a variety of options, including Sit & Go tournaments, cash games, and Multi-Table Tournaments. Also debuting on the platform are Cub3d Sit & Go Tournaments, a high-speed, spin-and-go style format where players have the chance to multiply buy-ins to as much as 1,500 times within minutes. This format promises quick thrills and substantial payout opportunities. In Pennsylvania, BetRivers Poker aims to provide some of the smallest rake rates in the market, making it more appealing for players looking to maximize value. The platform also connects seamlessly with the iRush Rewards program, a popular loyalty scheme that spans both retail and online environments. Players earn and redeem points across various gaming options, further enhancing engagement and incentives for loyal customers. Bridging online and retail poker experiences An integral part of RSI's vision for BetRivers Poker is to unify online and in-person poker experiences. Through its partnership with Rivers Casinos in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, RSI is bringing new benefits to both retail and digital poker environments. This integration will allow players to access exclusive promotions and seamlessly transition between online and live poker settings. Richard Schwartz, CEO of RSI, expressed enthusiasm about this cross-channel approach. "Our goal is to create a seamless experience for players, bridging the gap between the BetRivers digital and Rivers Casino offerings," Schwartz noted. "By aligning with Rush Street Gaming's strong retail presence, we are able to leverage our combined strengths to offer a truly unique poker experience that benefits players and drives growth across our entire portfolio." Tim Drehkoff, CEO of Rush Street Gaming, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the value for players. "This launch reinforces our commitment to offering Rivers Casino's guests a wide variety of gaming options. By integrating online and in-person poker, we're not only enhancing the player experience but also providing a seamless loyalty and rewards program," he said. "We're committed to continuing to innovate and provide value to our players." With BetRivers Poker, RSI is charting a new course in the US online poker space, combining Galfond's player-focused insights with its own extensive resources and retail footprint. For Pennsylvania players, this new launch represents just the beginning of an experience that's expected to grow both in features and reach across the country.

While all the hype in the offseason has been about how the Boston Celtics will actually start with a promising push to begin the season, it does seem that the Cleveland Cavaliers are bringing all the big guns with the way they are bringing the hype in the 2024-25 season with their success in the early games – tying the best start in franchise history so far. The Cavaliers are not the same team it was as they were in the Zydrunas Ilgauskas and LeBron James eras so far. The team hasn’t really seen some big strides over the years, but it seems that this is a start of a new era that many fans have been waiting for now quite some time now. But this is not the Donovan Mitchell era, and certainly not Jarrett Allen. This is the Kenny Atkinson era taking the reins and helping the Cavaliers go to a much deeper playoff run after spending the past few seasons on a disappointing note. So far, this has been a massive spectacle for the team and fans. Dawn of the Cavaliers Boston Celtics? New York Knicks? Milwaukee Bucks? Philadelphia 76ers? Not one of these teams are running the Eastern Conference right now, and that says a lot about how the Cleveland Cavaliers are starting to look like an exceptional team to watch this season considering that they are just one of the last two undefeated teams in the NBA right now as of the time of writing. For the first time in franchise history, the Cleveland Cavaliers have started 8-0, punctuated by that game-winner drilled by Donovan Mitchell in their marquee clash. However, it is worth noting that this is far from the big goal that many fans have been looking forward to, but it is indeed a step and a promising leap compared to their previous season. At this point, one can say that Cleveland is really poised for some impressive runs in this season, and this is why there are indeed high expectations for the team’s playoff run this time around. But this is still early, and the season is young, so it is just really fair to give them the credit they are due right now. Mitchell on the Rise Donovan Mitchell has been spectacular in his performances this season for the Cavaliers, having multiple 30-point games, and only one game under 20 points. He’s averaging 24.4 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.7 rebounds on 50% shooting from the field, including 40% from three. That is a promising note for his growth with the team. After spending five seasons with the Utah Jazz, Mitchell has found a different groove with the Cavaliers, and his first two seasons with the team were all screaming career-highs all over which says a lot about how he has ascended in his game this time around. So far, this season has also seen career-highs for Mitchell, all while also averaging his career-low in minutes per game, and that just proves how much he has grown over the years and still proves that he can actually come up with impressive strides. Who knows, maybe Mitchell will become a big name in the NBA as he looks forward to it while also bringing the Cavaliers to the stage of the NBA Finals for the first time since LeBron James – now that is a piece of historic feat that can bring him to the next level.

In case you missed it, the Dodgers went all out in their quest for dominance in the World Series as they hammered the New York Yankees in a 4-1 finish, and it did seem that there are now a lot of big expectations for the team heading into the next season as well. But will they actually find a way to win in their games again like they did before? Just a few months ago, the Dodgers banked in on more than $1 billion just to bring in new players, with Shohei Ohtani being the big moneymaker of all those players. However, it did seem to pay off by the end of the day as the club would go on to clinch its eighth World Series. However, it seemed that the goal of the big signings was far more than just one World Series. As of this moment, the Dodgers are now being pitched to throw for more runs at the World Series. After all, it is not every day that a winning club gets a chance to come up with a set of wins in the World Series, and this says a lot about how the game is just about to get even more competitive than most people expect at this point. The Dodgers Success Story It is worth noting that the Dodgers have always had the highest payroll in the MLB since 2013, but it has proven to be this year’s edition to be the “worth it” of them all. In that span of time, the Dodgers have gone on to reach the postseason in all 12 years, winning the division 11 times and coming up with four World Series titles. Considering that fact, the Dodgers have the best front office in baseball, and it seems that the team’s success really translates a lot for bigger strides now more than ever. With the way Los Angeles has continued to stay consistent in the game and deliver elite performances year in and year out, it seems that the Dodgers are truly the best blueprint for clubs to build on their teams now more than ever. Of course, the improvements won’t stop there. The Dodgers are certainly headed for more growth over the course of winter and new signings are expected to take place as well. Ther core nucleus is already dear, but ancillary pieces are expected to come in and bring the big blow now more than ever. Top of the World Ohtani was just a student at the Hanamaki Higashi High School when he wrote a list of his life goals – including to win the World Series. And now he just rushed the field as soon as the Dodger took over Game 5 to finish the World Series with a bang. Just like that, Ohtani has crossed off one goal in his list. “I had it on my list,” Ohtani said on MLB Network after Game 5. “I had planned to do it sooner, but unfortunately it took this long. But I had always wanted to have a moment like this, and I’d like to have another champagne fight next year and beyond. I want to start from scratch and do my best again.” Winning MVPs, the Japan Series, World Baseball Classic, and it does seem that there are indeed big wins for Ohtani’s career. It’s just the first chapter, and he’s definitely here to work on the rest of the big performances that his career will continue to feature now more than ever.

While everyone is getting ready for the US presidential election outcome, several states will also be voting for the future of casino gaming in the coming election. For instance, in Virginia, voters will decide whether or not a 5th casino will be built, and in Arkansas, voters will decide whether or not to revoke a casino's license. As the 2024 presidential election comes to a head with Donald Trump and Kamala Harris vying for the nation's top office, another set of high-stakes decisions awaits voters in Missouri, Virginia, and Arkansas. In addition to choosing the next president, voters in these states will weigh in on a series of gaming-related ballot questions that could significantly reshape the commercial gaming landscape in the US. The ballots include measures to open new casinos, expand sports betting, and reconsider existing gaming licenses, potentially impacting state economies, local job markets, and tax revenues. With Election Day set for Tuesday, the 5th of November, early voting has already been underway for weeks. Here's a breakdown of what's at stake in each state. Virginia: a potential fifth casino in Petersburg In Virginia, voters in Petersburg - a city located about 20 miles from the capital, Richmond - are being asked whether to approve a $600 million casino project proposed by Cordish Companies, based in Baltimore, and real estate firm from Virginia, Bruce Smith Enterprise. Located near Interstate 95, the envisioned Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia would feature a 200-room hotel, eight dining establishments, a large concert venue, and a sprawling casino floor with 50 live casino games, 1,600 slot machines, a 15-table poker room, as well as a sportsbook. Governor Glenn Youngkin and the Virginia General Assembly sanctioned the Petersburg vote after residents in Richmond rejected similar casino proposals - twice. Unlike Richmond, however, Petersburg has shown more interest in hosting a casino, with local support favoring the economic benefits that the project promises. The Cordish project is projected to create thousands of jobs with an average annual salary of around $70,000, delivering an estimated $2.8 billion through the next decade and potentially generating $240 million in tax revenue over the same period. Many analysts believe that the positive economic impact and strong local support will likely lead to the referendum's passage, paving the way for Virginia's fifth commercial casino. Arkansas: the future of the Pope County casino license In Arkansas, a contentious issue is on the ballot as voters consider whether to revoke a casino license for Pope County, where the Cherokee Nation has been working to build a $300 million casino named Legends Resort & Casino. The Arkansas Racing Commission awarded the Cherokee Nation the Pope County casino license in June, but the project has faced opposition from a rival Oklahoma-based tribe that seeks to maintain control over tribal casino operations. The ballot initiative, known as Issue 2 or the 'Local Voters in Charge' initiative, would strip the Cherokee Nation of its license if passed, reserving gaming licenses only for counties where local referendums express clear support. Although voters statewide approved the issuance of casino licenses for four counties in 2018, Pope County was one of the few that opposed the measure. Because Issue 2 is framed as a way to reclaim voter control over casino licenses, proponents argue that local communities should have the final say in hosting a casino. Observers suggest that the measure has strong support, which could spell the end of the Cherokee Nation's plans for a casino in Pope County. Missouri: a major expansion in sports betting and gaming Missouri voters are considering two significant amendments - Amendment 2 and Amendment 5 - that could open new opportunities for gaming in the state. Amendment 2 seeks to legalize sports betting both online and at physical locations. The initiative has sparked record spending from major players like FanDuel and DraftKings, who support the measure, while Caesars Entertainment has been vocal in its opposition, arguing that it could over-saturate the market and bring in too many operators. However, recent polling and public sentiment indicate that Missourians are largely in favor of legalizing sports betting, making Amendment 2 one of the more likely measures to pass. Another proposal, Amendment 5, would permit a new casino to be built in the environs of the Lake of the Ozarks, adding to the existing gaming venues along the Osage River. Bally's Corporation and local partner Osage River Gaming & Convention have proposed developing a 20-story casino and hotel complex near Bagnell Dam. So far, there has been limited public opposition to the proposal, and analysts predict it has a strong chance of passing.

Polymarket has been associated with election betting, although it has been quick to confirm that it's not just the outcome of the US presidential elections that it is interested in. It is, after all, a crypto-trading platform, and betting on the US presidential election's events is just one of its prediction markets. And insiders say that Polymarket's new foray in the US market will be all about sports betting. In the era of big data, election enthusiasts have a new favorite: prediction markets, where users can wager on anything from election results to economic forecasts. This year, the spotlight is on Polymarket, a blockchain-powered platform that has captured substantial attention as political tensions rise and the crypto industry funnels millions into betting avenues. While political insiders debated President Joe Biden's future, Polymarket users were already betting on whether he'd step down - and many made accurate calls. Yet with US restrictions on political betting, Polymarket's impressive volume stems largely from international users, although users from the US still find ways to access the platform despite regulations. Polymarket's predictions The numbers are staggering. Polymarket reports that its markets on the 2024 US presidential race alone have attracted an incredible $2.8 billion, though roughly a third might stem from so-called wash trading, where users create artificial transactions to boost liquidity. Politics, therefore, has been Polymarket's cash cow, significantly exceeding the platform's other categories. However, with election season waning very soon, the platform is shifting focus to sports betting - an area with the potential to draw a large, consistent user base outside of political cycles. For Polymarket, sports could be a game-changer. In October, the platform subtly promoted its sports category by tagging it 'NEW,' and although the label has since disappeared, Polymarket's leaders are making their ambitions clear. Chief Executive Officer Shayne Coplan recently demonstrated this vision in response to a New York Times article about potential manipulation risks within the platform. "Polymarket is not about politics," he posted on X (formerly Twitter). "The vision never was to be a political website, and it still isn't." He pointed out that the platform's vision is broad, and its aspirations to branch into sports are gaining momentum. A shift in focus: the sports betting market exhibits great potential Backing Polymarket's efforts is Nick Tomaino, founder of investment firm 1confirmation, which has put faith (and funds) into the platform. "Sports will be more of a focus after the election," Tomaino told Front Office Sports. "There's already almost $95 million in USDC volume on the Super Bowl 2025 future market." This early response signals that bettors are warming to Polymarket's sports options, although the platform will face a steep learning curve as it adapts its prediction-market structure to fit the high-stakes, fast-paced world of sports. Polymarket's approach differs from traditional sportsbooks, where bookmakers analyze data to set odds and maintain a roughly equal split of bets on either side to guarantee profits. In contrast, prediction markets rely on contracts or events that boil down to yes-or-no questions: Will Georgia be able to win the championship in college football? Will Jake Paul defeat Mike Tyson? Users purchase shares based on the likelihood of these outcomes, which adjusts dynamically based on collective betting sentiment. If bettors favor one outcome heavily, its price rises; if opinions shift, so does the share price. This fluid system is designed to reflect real-time probabilities that shift as information surfaces. In sports, where injuries, penalties, and live scores constantly alter expectations, this dynamic, user-driven betting style may appeal to fans looking to capitalize on such changes. Tomaino suggests, "24/7 real-time trading for sports outcomes will be big. Sports futures is a unique product. You can bet on the Chiefs to win the Super Bowl at any sportsbook, of course, but you can't trade around the position." On Polymarket, users can sell their shares before a game or event concludes, allowing them to lock in gains or cut losses. For instance, a bettor who backed the Dodgers early in the World Series could sell those shares as their odds of winning improved. A new and innovative way to bet: but will it work? Yet this blend of sports and prediction markets is not without challenges. Other platforms, like Frontrunner, have attempted similar ventures but ultimately struggled to capture a solid foothold. Polymarket's individual game markets currently face thin volume compared to sportsbooks with dedicated sports betting user bases. When Thursday Night Football debuted on the platform, it registered just over $500,000 in betting volume - meager compared to the billions in weekly action seen by US sportsbooks during the NFL season. For Polymarket, the task now is to pivot successfully and build its credibility among sports bettors. Tomaino and Coplan are betting on the platform's ability to create a new model, one where crypto-powered prediction markets offer bettors flexibility and responsiveness unmatched by traditional sports betting sites. The question remains: as Polymarket moves beyond politics, can it entice sports fans to explore prediction markets' unique offerings? Time will tell if the platform's latest venture can score big with a new audience.

For the first time since 1996, the Washington Commanders are now enjoying the best start in franchise history this season thanks to a massive run at 7-2 in their first nine games. However, it cannot be denied that the Commanders owe it all to the game-changing impact that Jayden Daniels has brought to the squad this season. Rookie year. Spectacular rise. And now, the MVP talks – Jayden Daniels is surely having the best time of his life as a professional athlete with the way he has earned prominence in the NFL with his impressive games for the Washington Commanders night in and night out. It cannot be denied that the Commanders – who have been long seen as the black eye of the league – have now emerged at the top thanks to his help. At this point, the Commanders are rising to the way to the top, and so does Daniels’ MVP stock as he now moves to sixth overall in most odds with a range of +1,000 to +1,600. He has finally blown past the likes of Sam Darnold, Derrick Henry, CJ Stroud, and Kyler Murray for the odds to win the MVP at this point. A Promising Win Against the Giants Jayden Daniels has been phenomenal to start the season, and he did a great job of leading the Commanders to a 27-22 win in their game against the New York Giants. This time, however, he did not need to throw a Hail Mary this time as Washington pulled off a clear victory behind their sensational rookie. Commanders head coach Dan Quinn admitted that he was a little bit concerned about their performance against their NFC East rivals after that emotional win over the Chicago Bears. However, his trust in his rookie QB has been really paying off wonders for the team as they are now seeing some impressive strides in his lead. “It was like a historic win for us last week at home in the fashion it went,” Quinn said. “How do you recognize it and yet fill the tanks back up knowing you’re heading back into a division game? I thought it showed a lot of maturity from the team and poise to say, ‘That was cool, now we got to get right back into the next process.’” In Full Control It is really rare for rookies to actually come up with impressive performances as the lead play caller for a team. CJ Stroud did it well in the previous season for the Houston Texans, but nothing has been really loud as Jayden Daniels’ campaign this season with the Commanders. This game against the Giants was a show of force. Daniels finished 15 of 22 for 209 yards, and he even managed to pull off a 42-yard pass to ice the game thanks to a finish by Olamide Zaccheaus after New York got within five. At this point, it is all his show, and he is definitely making the most out of his opportunities with the Commanders. “I’m just happy for the fan base,” said Daniels, who added that his focus remains one game and one week at a time. “They can be so proud of the product we are putting out on the field.” Now more than ever, it does seem that Daniels and the Commanders are expected to come up with more impressive strides in the coming weeks. There’s still more to play, but Daniels’ coming up with bigger performances night in and night out really reaps them a lot of benefits heading into the postseason chase now more than ever.

After a season full of intense battles, it seems that Alexander Zverev will be really on pace for some interesting run at the ATP Finals after his impressive victory in the Rolex Paris Masters Final, where he defeated home favorite Ugo Humbert in straight sets to capture the winning trophy. The new world no. 2 is at the top of his game, and he is really doing it well. Climbing to the second spot with a promising victory, it does seem that Zverev is really making some strong headway in the competition heading into the ATP Finals. He really did not want any fairytale interruptions and even massive comeback stories as he went on to beat Humbert at 6-2 and 6-2 to close out the ordeal. A flawless performance, a show of things to come – a promising campaign to remember. This has been the story of Zverev’s season so far, and it cannot be denied that there are a lot of big expectations set for him now more than ever as he now moves to come up with a huge rally to finish it all with a bang at the ATP Finals. A Run to the Top As one contender got knocked out of the Rolex Paris Masters after another, it did seem that the odds were starting to shift the other way around as there were many upsets being pulled off in the latter stages of the competitions. However, it was Alexander Zverev who was unfazed and undaunted by the trials of the Paris Masters, later emerging all the way to the final. At the end of it, Zverev finished 23-13 in tour-level finals, and he sure did play relentlessly in almost every department that he impressed well behind his own serve. If you are not impressed, the German star just dropped five points en route to his seventh ATP Masters 1000 title. “I knew I had to play like this to win today,” said Zverev. “Ugo is an incredible player, but here in Paris, he plays even better than he usually does and I knew that. Once the crowd gets involved, it’s going to be difficult. So, I had to take that away early, and I did, so I’m happy about that.” Zverev is now the second German star to ever win at the Accor Arena – which is also the tournament’s final edition in the said venue before moving to La Défense Arena. This win also marks his second ATP Tour title of 2024 and his tour-leading 66th triumph of the year at 66-20. A Dominant Performance Inside Out Alexander Zverev definitely saved the best for last with his 9.46 performance rating in the game. He finished with an 8.9 serve quality, 7.4 return quality, 8.5 backhand quality, and 9.4 forehand quality. It seems that the 2020 final loss to Daniil Medvedev has really left its mark and Zverev did not want to see the same trophy slip away from his hands for a second time as he wrapped it up in 75 minutes. “It was not 100 per cent guaranteed that I would be back at this level after Roland Garros two years ago, when I basically broke everything possible in my ankle,” Zverev said. “So, to win this title here in Paris means the world to me, and I’m sure it means everything to those in my box, because they have done so much for me.” While Jannik Sinner is still the clear favorite to win the ATP Finals, it cannot be denied that Alexander Zverev’s win now moves him an inch closer to be the top pick to win it all to end the season.

Bensalem has become the latest town in Pennsylvania to prohibit the popular skill games. Skill games have come under scrutiny in the last few months because of their similarity to slot machines, and opponents say that skill games should be taxed, similar to slot machines. But it's worth noting that Bensalem is also the town where Parx Casino is located. The town of Bensalem, home to Parx Casino, the highest-grossing casino in Pennsylvania, has implemented a new ordinance that bans skill games in most local businesses. These machines, which closely resemble traditional slot machines but claim to offer a skill component in their gameplay, have spurred controversy across the state, with critics arguing that they encourage unregulated gambling. The Bensalem Township Council votes On Monday night, the Bensalem Township Council, led by Mayor Joseph DiGirolamo, passed the ordinance in a vote that marked a strong stance against skill games, which have proliferated in various businesses across the area. Set to go into effect on November 7, the ordinance outlaws real money gambling on skill games for businesses without liquor licenses, a measure township officials argue is necessary to protect the community from the machines' associated criminal activities. Skill games, often branded as "Pennsylvania Skill," differ from standard slot machines by requiring players to recognize winning symbol combinations to claim a payout, introducing an element of player control. Supporters of these games argue that this interactive feature places them outside the legal definition of gambling and, therefore, beyond the regulatory scope of the Pennsylvania Gaming Act. State courts have thus far agreed, although the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is currently reviewing lower court rulings on the matter. The ordinance restricts skill games to businesses holding liquor licenses and mandates that these machines remain in areas monitored by video surveillance and accessible only to individuals over 18. Businesses with no liquor licenses that still offer skill games will face a fine per day of $1,000. Protecting local revenue and public safety The ordinance's passage may be seen as aligning with the interests of Parx Casino, which contributes significant revenue to Bensalem Township and Bucks County. As a Category 2 casino - meaning a standalone establishment - Parx remits 2% of its gross revenue from slot machines, table games, and sports betting to the local government. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, this amounted to over $11.7 million, including $7.5 million from slots, $3.9 million from table games, and $337,000 from sports betting. Parx Casino's opposition to skill games is well-known. In June, Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment, Parx's parent company, announced it would pause plans to build a hotel on the casino property, citing concerns over the proliferation of skill games and their potential impact on future revenue. Marc Oppenheimer, chief marketing officer at Parx, explained, "Until we have greater clarity on (the regulation of skill games), we weren't comfortable making a nine-figure investment." Instead, Parx opted to purchase and refurbish the nearby Inn at Fox Chase. Bensalem's Public Safety Director, William McVey, voiced concerns over the connection between skill games and criminal incidents in the area. "We've seen a proliferation of these machines in all types of businesses, and we've also seen it welcome a criminal element," McVey stated. Law enforcement has reportedly responded to several incidents related to skill gaming over the past year, strengthening the council's resolve to limit their operation to establishments where alcohol is served, which tend to have stricter age controls and monitoring. Pushback from skill game developers Pace-O-Matic, the Georgia-based company that manufactures Pennsylvania Skill machines, expressed disappointment over the Bensalem ordinance. Through a partnership with Miele Manufacturing, a Pennsylvania firm that assembles the machines, POM has become a prominent presence in local businesses, including family-owned stores and social clubs. "Pennsylvania Skill is alarmed that Bensalem Township would pass a measure that will hurt small family-owned businesses and fraternal clubs that benefit from the supplemental revenue from skill games," said Mike Barley, a spokesperson for POM. Barley added that while the company supports efforts to remove illegal gambling machines from communities, an outright ban on legal skill games does more harm than good. POM is expected to challenge the ordinance in court, arguing that the restrictions disproportionately benefit Parx Casino and restrict small businesses from generating additional income in a struggling economy. Statewide trend against skill games Bensalem's move mirrors recent actions by the Philadelphia City Council, which passed a similar ordinance in February 2024. The increasing regulation of skill games reflects a greater statewide debate over the role and legality of such devices. As the Pennsylvania Supreme Court continues its review of skill game legality under the Pennsylvania Gaming Act, local governments appear to be preemptively limiting these devices' reach.