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Charles Barkley, the famous NBA superstar and legend in his own right, is also known for giving candid interviews. In a recent interview for Arizona Sports, he mentioned that when it is his time, he wants his cremated remains to be scattered in three places: in Phoenix, Alabama, and in a casino in Las Vegas (he didn't specify which one). Charles Barkley, an NBA legend known for his larger-than-life personality and gambling habits, made headlines once again this week with a surprising revelation about his final wishes. The Basketball Hall of Famer, who has never been shy about sharing his opinions, humorously declared that he wants his cremated ashes scattered in three significant locations: his home state of Alabama, his adopted home of Phoenix, and inside a Las Vegas casino. An iconic personality Barkley, who received an NBA All-Star 11 times and who is a key member of the iconic US Olympic "Dream Team" in 1992, shared this with Arizona Sports ahead of the 2024 - 2025 NBA season. While discussing his love for Phoenix, where he has lived since being traded to the Phoenix Suns in the early 90s, the Alabama native jokingly looked ahead to his death and gave instructions for his remains. "I'm never leaving Phoenix alive. I love living in Phoenix," Barkley quipped. "When I leave Phoenix, they're going to cremate my fat a**. My a** is so big, I want some ashes in Alabama, I want some ashes in Phoenix, and I want the rest in a casino in Vegas." When it comes to which Las Vegas casino will receive this unique honor, Barkley hasn't yet identified a specific location, though his longstanding connection to the city suggests it will be a fitting final tribute to a place where he has spent many memorable moments. Barkley's big bets and gambling history Barkley's affinity for Las Vegas is no secret, as his gambling habits have been well-documented throughout his career. Alongside fellow sports icons like another basketball legend Michael Jordan and golfer John Daly, Barkley is notorious for his high-stakes gambling, a pastime that has seen him lose millions of dollars over the years. In 2007, Barkley admitted to losing an estimated $10 million through gambling during his 16-season NBA career. One of the most infamous incidents occurred when he lost a staggering $2.5 million in blackjack in just six hours. Despite these significant losses, Barkley has repeatedly stated that he doesn't view his gambling as a major issue. "It's not a problem," Barkley said at the time. "If you're a drug addict or an alcoholic, those are problems. I gamble for too much money. As long as I can continue to do it, I don't think it's a problem." He also acknowledged the bad habit, saying, "Do I think it's a bad habit? Yes, I think it's a bad habit. Am I going to continue to do it? Yes, I'm going to continue to do it." However, Barkley's gambling history hasn't been without its setbacks. Wynn Las Vegas filed a civil lawsuit against him in 2008 over an unpaid gambling debt of $400,000. Barkley finally repaid Wynn Las Vegas, and at the time, he appeared to express regret, telling the world, "I've got to stop gambling. I am not going to gamble anymore." Yet, staying true to his unapologetic style, Barkley added a caveat, explaining that while he might take a break from gambling, he didn't see it as a permanent decision. "I'm not going to gamble right now, the next year or two. Just because I can afford to lose money doesn't mean I should," he said. A family legacy of gambling Barkley's association with gambling runs deep, and it was revealed last year in his biography that his upbringing in Alabama played a role in shaping his attitude toward betting. According to the biography, his family sold bootlegged liquor out of their home and operated an underground gambling ring, making Barkley's immersion in the gambling world somewhat inevitable. Despite his well-known gambling struggles, Barkley's iconic status and his humorous take on life made him a perfect fit for FanDuel, the sports betting and online gaming operator. In late 2020, FanDuel signed him as brand ambassador, using his name and persona to promote responsible gambling while also embracing the fun and excitement associated with sports betting. As part of the deal, Barkley has appeared in multiple commercials for FanDuel, making him a key figure in the company's marketing efforts. His involvement in the gambling industry as an ambassador may seem ironic given his history, but for FanDuel, Barkley's fame and notoriety only serve to enhance the brand's reach and credibility in the online gaming sector.

Tennessee is yet another state in a long line of states that has filed a cease and desist order against Bovada, a casino and sportsbook operator that doesn't have a license to operate in the US. Bovada has once again failed to comply, and Tennessee had no choice but to issue a $50K fine. The Tennessee Sports Wagering Council (SWC) imposed $50,000 in fines on Bovada.lv, an unlicensed sportsbook, for illegally operating within the state. The Council's executive director announced the fines on Tuesday following Bovada's failure to comply with multiple cease and desist letters sent to its offices in Curacao. These letters ordered Bovada to cease operations in Tennessee, where it is not licensed to accept sports wagers. Despite these warnings, SWC investigators successfully placed bets on the platform on three individual occasions, the latest occurring on the 16th of October, 2024. This ongoing illegal activity prompted the Council to issue the hefty fines under the state's Sports Gaming Act. Breakdown of the fines The SWC has the authority to penalize sportsbooks for unlicensed activity in the state. Under the Sports Gaming Act, the first violation results in a $10,000 fine, while subsequent violations carry increased penalties. Bovada's second offense incurred a $15,000 fine, and the third resulted in an additional $25,000 penalty. Further violations could lead to more fines, with each illegal wager considered a separate occurrence, potentially leading to additional $25,000 fines for each future bet accepted. In the cease and desist demand, the SWC not only ordered Bovada to cease accepting bets from Tennessee residents but also required the sportsbook to allow all users from Tennessee to withdraw any remaining funds held in their accounts. Bovada's non-compliance led to the imposition of the fines and further action from the SWC to ensure the safety of Tennessee sports bettors. Mary Beth Thomas, the executive director of the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council, emphasized the importance of withdrawing funds from Bovada's platform. "The Sports Wagering Council recommends that Tennessee users of Bovada withdraw their funds immediately," Thomas stated. "Our primary role is the protection of the public interest through a safe, regulated environment, and Tennessee sports bettors need to know that just because they can access a sports betting website or app inside Tennessee's borders does not mean it is licensed to do business here." Protecting bettors in Tennessee The SWC reiterated the dangers of betting through illegal sportsbooks, like Bovada. Unlike licensed operators, unlicensed platforms may not be able to safeguard bettors' financial and personal information. This information could then be shared with criminal enterprises, putting consumers at risk of identity theft or fraud. Additionally, any funds deposited or won through illegal sportsbooks could be withheld without legal recourse. The Council is working closely with law enforcement agencies, both at the federal and state levels, to crack down on illegal sportsbooks and protect consumers. The goal is to create a safer and more regulated environment for sports betting in Tennessee, where residents can engage in wagering activities with confidence. Tennessee's growing sports betting market Tennessee has emerged as a leading online sports betting market in the US, being the largest "online-only" state for sports wagering. In the last fiscal year alone, more than $4.7 billion was wagered in Tennessee through legal, licensed sportsbooks overseen by the SWC. Licensed sportsbooks are required to comply with strict state regulations that protect consumers, including ensuring that bettors' money is secure and that personal information is safeguarded. Unlike illegal operators, licensed sportsbooks must also hold reserves to pay out winning wagers and follow guidelines that prohibit individuals under 21 from placing bets. They are also forbidden from offering credit-based betting, another important consumer protection measure. The widespread problem of illegal sportsbooks Illegal sportsbooks like Bovada continue to pose a major challenge to regulators across the US. A study by the American Gaming Association estimated that US citizens wager nearly $64 billion per year through illegal online bookies and sportsbooks. The SWC is committed to eradicating illegal operators from Tennessee's sports betting market, ensuring that only licensed platforms are available to residents. The Council urges consumers to verify the licensing status of sportsbooks before placing bets. A full list of sportsbooks licensed to operate in Tennessee can be found on the Council's official website.

Chet Holmgren brought the storm in Denver as he helped the Thunder roll past the Nuggets with a 102-87 victory as the big man scored 25 points, 14 rebounds, five assists, four blocks, and two steals on 11/18 shooting. The Thunder opened the season with a bang against their Western Conference and Northwest Division rivals to prove that they are ready for serious contention. OKC had full control of the game and was already ahead to begin the game. Neither team shot well from deep, shooting a combined 15/75 from downtown, with both teams under 25% shooting. Still, the Thunder were really scrappy from start to finish, and Holmgren’s presence down low on both ends really proved to be an x-factor in the victory. Holmgren’s superior performance sends a strong message to all his critics in the offseason, saying that the big man isn’t really ready to roll with the big boys due to his lack of size and strength on the post. Now it seems that he is proving everyone wrong this season, and this opening performance shows a lot of point on that end so far. Delivering on Both Ends of the Floor OKC was expected to be quite shorthanded on the glass end with Isaiah Hartenstein expected to be out for almost a month due to a minor hand injury. However, Holmgren shored up the rebounding end and proved to able to hold his ground when needed. So far, Holmgren proved that he can now run the floor with authority – something that he didn’t have in the previous season and needed some serious work. However, in the third quarter, his presence was seriously felt on the floor. He defended Nikola Jokic down low, and despite the reigning MVP’s strength on the post, Holmgren managed to find the right time to block the shot. OKC would go on to run the floor on a 3-on-3 break, but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander found a cutting Holmgren – who slammed the door home with a massive dunk to cap off the possession. Chet’s 14 rebounds was a tie for his career-high, and his presence on both ends of the floor proved to be pivotal in the Thunder’s first win of the season, showing how much they’ve grown to begin the campaign in just a short period of time. Big Takeaways in the Game SGA was a promising performer as always, finishing with 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists. Aaron Wiggins finished with 15 points and 6 rebounds in just 19 minutes off the bench, while Jalen Williams scored 12. It was a massive win for OKC, whose offseason additions have made them a massive favorite to win in the NBA Finals. Jokic finished with a triple-double of 16 points, 13 assists, and 12 rebounds for Denver – the only silver lining in this tough loss. The Nuggets shot 7 for 39 from three and didn’t really have an answer to OKC’s stacked bench, who outscored its Denver counterpart at 25-16. Russell Westbrook, who was added by the Nuggets to put up some support on their offense, only had six points on 2/10 shooting. It was a grim night for Denver, who infamously lost their chance to the Western Conference last season after blowing a 3-2 series lead against the Minnesota Timberwolves and losing Game 7 at home. OKC, who opened the season as the youngest roster in the league at the age of 24 years, will now continue the second leg of their road trip in a showdown against the Chicago Bulls, playing against former Thunder guard Josh Giddey for the first time.

Fans at the TD Garden were hyped up with the way the Bruins approached the game and stayed on par against one of the biggest teams in the NHL in the Dallas Stars. However, it seemed that Matt Duchene’s big performances were enough to help silence the fans as Dallas blew past Boston for a 5-2 win. Duchene was a playoff hero for the Stars in their October 19 victory against the Edmonton Oilers, and it does seem that his game is constantly improving with consistent growth as the star has emerged with another impressive game for Dallas. This time, he helped out on the playmaking side as he managed to deliver an impressive run for the Stars to take a much-needed victory. So far, the Stars are sitting at the third spot of the Western Conference, tied with the Winnipeg Jets and Minnesota Wild in points, which says a lot about how the game has been really intense in the West to begin with, and fans can say that this is something that critics have predicted moving towards the next set of games in the season. A Duchene Clinic Duchene finished the game with a goal and two assists to help out in the Stars’ wire-to-wire finish against the Boston Bruins. It was a massive performance for Duchene, who has been really spectacular on the offensive end as he dictated plays and even drew a lot of defenders to open up the shooter’s block before scoring his lone goal of the game at 16:20 of the first to tie it at 1-1. At this point, it cannot be denied that Duchene is on his breakout season so far, and the Stars are riding on his impressive performances this season to put up the needed wins. At this point, staying on par against the big contenders of the West is definitely needed for them to stay afloat, and that is something that fans should expect from Duchene now more than ever. For this game, however, it does seem that Duchene has been really impressive with the way he has managed to come up with elite performances. At this point, one can say that the Stars have found themselves a reliable and promising performer to help them make a deep run in the 2024-25 NHL season now more than ever. By the Numbers Duchene isn’t the only elite performer who has had a promising performance in the game. There’s also Tyler Seguin, who also had a goal and two assists for the Stars as the team plowed their way through. Dallas scored three power-play goals in the second period to take a 4-2 lead, and that tied a team record for the most PPG ever since the team moved to Dallas in 1993. Jeremy Swayman, who is making a lot of noise in his opening run as Boston’s starting goalie, impressed well with 27 saves for the Bruins. However, Boston has now dropped to a 3-4-1 record, including three straight losses so far. The Bruins were scoreless in final frame but did outshot the Stars at 10-7. Dallas, however, managed to score an empy-net goal at 17-58 to cap off the 5-2 victory. The Stars are set to take on the Chicago Blackhawks this weekend, where they are heavy favorites to win with odds of -315 according to the latest major sportsbooks. They are also expected to cover the -3.95 spread, which fans can consider for a parlay bet. Make sure to check out your potential winnings at GambleSpot’s Odds and Parlay Calculator today!

The hype for Inter Miami is real, and it cannot be denied that the squad is a heavy pick to come through the deeper stages of the competition after what seemed to be a historic run in ages. However, it seems that Lionel Messi is expected to carry a big load like he did in his time with Barcelona as he hopes to bring success to Miami and prove that he can win anywhere. Atlanta United has broken through the wild card rounds, setting up a promising clash of elite teams as Inter Miami now takes on the task of beating the team in a best-of-three series in the first round of the MLS Cup. Games will be played this October 26th, November 3rd, and November 10th. For Messi and the squad, this is a chance to prove that they have what it takes to win, and what more could the fans ask for than a spectacular performance from the former La Liga and Ligue 1 star? At this point, it is hard to argue that Inter Miami is a favorite to win, but that also means that the squad must find a way to live up to expectations, and fans are definitely keen to see more from the squad that is led by a World Cup winner and a veteran of two highly competitive European leagues. Pressure’s On for Messi and the Squad Inter Miami clinched the Supporter’s Shield without much hassle after Messi led the team to the best record for the 2024 season. That was the second trophy that he’s helped bring home for Miami after he helped the club secure a Leagues Cup win last season. However, it seems that there are a lot of talk as to how Messi and the rest of the squad will be able to come up with a promising push to the top of the postseason. MLS’s race to the flagship title is different from what he is used to in the European setting, where teams only need to finish at the top of the standings in order to be hailed as champions. This time, however, he will have to bring “Messi Mania” into a different picture with the playoff action set to ensue this weekend. There’s still work to be done, and many players are seeking to see more from Messi as the squad now takes on Atlanta United, a team that has managed to put up some of the best performances in the postseason and deliver an impressive look on their games now more than ever. Meeting an Energized Atlanta United Sure, Inter Miami boasts a strong squad led by Messi and his former Barcelona co-stars such as Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. They even have former Barcelona and Argentina boss Tata Martino to lead the club as a whole, but they should not underestimate their opponents as they are set to take on a reinvigorated Atlanta team. In case you missed it, Atlanta managed to pull off a 5-4 win in penalties against Montreal FC, beating them in the wild card and delivering a promising victory that sets them apart from other contending teams in the competition. So far, it does seem that Atlanta have a great chance to pull off an upset, but it seems that Inter Miami will still be the favorite to win with odds of +150 on their side.

The blazing action continues in the NFL as Week 8 now begins to take shape with the Minnesota Vikings now picked to win as favorites over the Los Angeles Rams in their Thursday Night Football clash. It seems that the AFC leaders are expected to get back on their winning track after suffering a tough loss in the previous week. Thursday Night Football is one of the biggest actions in the NFL season that fans should not miss, and this week’s clash is going to be a massive highlight for the day as the Vikings try to come up with a win after seeing their five-game winning streak get snapped in the previous game. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Rams are seeking to come up with a second win in a row after the team snapped their two-game skid in a 20-15 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. So far, it does seem that the team has a fair chance to come up with a win, but they will need to beat the odds if they are going to take down the Vikings, who are heavily favored to win. Vikings To Win on the Road AFC leaders Minnesota Vikings are expected to come up with a promising visit at the SoFi Stadium with the team set to come up with some fiery action in their showdown against the Rams. So far, the Vikings are set as favorites with odds of -160, and it is expected that their tough loss to the Detroit Lions will fuel them to come up with more winning strides in the coming weeks. Sam Darnold has been the elite performer he has been expected to be this season. So far, the star has managed to complete at least 109 of his 164 passes for 66.5%, including 1,370 yards and 12 touchdowns with five interceptions for a 104 rating. His top option in the passing game, Justin Jefferson, has also been spectacular in the game, and it cannot be denied that the wide receiver is expected to be the trigger that will give the Vikings a big chance to win. In their previous games, Darnold completed 22 of 27 passes (81.5%) for 259 yards and one touchdown with one interception in Sunday's loss to the Lions. Jefferson, on the other hand, pulled seven passes for 81 yards (11.6 average) and one touchdown against Detroit. Rams to Hold the Line While the odds may not favor them outright with the team set at +135 in the game, it is worth noting that having the home advantage would really turn the tide on their side at the very least. So far, the Rams are coming off a promising win in the previous week, and it does seem that they can find their way to the top of the game and secure a huge chance to beat the AFC leaders in a crucial game. This season has been special for Matthew Stafford so far, and it cannot be denied that the star QB has been sensational for the team. In his first games of the season, Stafford’s completion rate on his passes stands at 66.7% as of the time of writing, including 1,392 yards and three touchdowns. However, the Rams will need to come up with some elite-level defense if they are going to beat the Vikings and put the contenders into submission. At this point, it does seem that this clash is going to give a lot of fans a run for their money.

Las Vegas has always welcomed the spookiest night of the year in style, and this year is no exception. It has revealed an exciting list of Halloween events, starting with a classic take on Halloween musical favorites and ending with an epic weekend-long celebration and street party at the Fremont Street Experience. Las Vegas, a city that is already known for its thrills, turns the fear factor up several notches during Halloween. From haunted rooftops to electrifying dance floors, Sin City has a plethora of spine-tingling events lined up for this year's spooky season. If you're planning to Halloween in Vegas, here's what's on the agenda to make your heart race and your pulse quicken. Fremont Street Experience: where the bodies are buried For a quintessential Las Vegas Halloween, you can't miss the Fremont Street Experience. Known for its neon lights and party atmosphere, this iconic location transforms into a chilling backdrop for eerie experiences. The cobblestone streets, where many believe the spirits of Las Vegas' past still linger, become even more haunting, making it the perfect setting for fright-filled festivities. Friday - Saturday, October 25 to 26 ScAREA15: EDM raves and eerie attractions EDM fans, get ready for an unforgettable Halloween rave. The enigmatic Liquid Stranger will kick off the spooky weekend with pulsating beats and a backdrop of eerie attractions at AREA15. Known for its immersive experiences, AREA15 will set the stage for an otherworldly dance party that could make you feel like you've crossed into another dimension. The following night, brace yourself for the 'Strange Circus,' a carnival-themed event headlined by the dynamic duo Baby Gravy. These events offer the perfect opportunity to dance with the dead - or at least dance until you're drop-dead tired. Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics For those who prefer a more refined scare, this concert is a must-see. Classical musicians will take center stage, performing Halloween classics like 'Thriller' from Michael Jackson and the hauntingly iconic 'Halloween Theme.' Bathed in the flickering glow of thousands of candles, the performance promises to be both spooky and enchanting. This is an ideal event for music lovers looking to ease into the Halloween spirit without getting too scared - yet. Saturday, October 26 Sin City Halloween Ball at Virgin Hotels Formerly known as the Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball, the Sin City Halloween Ball is back at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. Costumes are not just encouraged - they are mandatory. The event, known for its over-the-top outfits and extravagant revelry, is one of the wildest Halloween parties in Vegas. It's an experience where you can be whoever - or whatever - you want, but expect to see a lot of creative and provocative costumes as part of this legendary event. Haunted Manor (Circa Las Vegas) If you're looking for a mix of sophistication and scares, Circa's Legacy Club is hosting its annual Haunted Manor Halloween party. Set high above the city on a rooftop, the event blends elegance with terror, offering killer views of the Las Vegas skyline alongside chilling decor. This is your chance to dress in your finest (or most frightening) costume and enjoy a night of haunting luxury. Thursday until Tuesday, October 28 to 31 Zouk Nightclub's Halloweekend Resorts World's Zouk Nightclub is upping the ante this year by bringing in headliners like The Martinez Brothers, Tiesto, G-Eazy, and DJ Snake. Running from Thursday until Tuesday, Halloweekend promises some of the biggest acts in electronic music. While a sexiest Halloween costume contest is scheduled, the real highlight of these events is the party atmosphere and world-class DJs. If you love dance music and want to party through the witching hour, this is where you'll want to be. Tuesday, October 31 HalloWeekend Downtown in the Rock of Horror The Halloween fun culminates on Tuesday, October 31, with Rock of Horror HalloWeekend, a downtown street party under the Fremont Street Experience canopy. This epic, weekend-long event is perfect for costume-watchers and those eager to take part in a lively costume contest. With free music and an array of creative outfits, this annual bash is a highlight of the Las Vegas Halloween season. Ongoing events: a haunting in Sin City Haunted Cinema at the Beverly Theater Throughout October, the Beverly Theater will host 'The Wake 2024: Open Casket Viewing of Haunted Cinema.' Featuring a lineup of 50 horror films, this event is perfect for horror movie buffs looking to get their scare on all month long. From cult classics to newer releases, the haunted cinema experience is not to be missed. Shadows of Sin City Ghost Tour For those looking to dive deeper into the supernatural side of Las Vegas, Ghost City Tours offers a walking tour through downtown's most haunted sites. 'Shadows of Sin City' will take you on an eerie journey, uncovering the city's ghostly past and highlighting the locations said to be haunted by restless spirits. Whether you're into chilling ghost tours, high-energy EDM raves, or sophisticated rooftop parties, Las Vegas has something for everyone this Halloween. The city's crazy yet ever-vibrant atmosphere, paired with a strong lineup of spooky events, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to celebrate the season in perfect style. Ready for the fright of your life? Sin City awaits.

As the year draws to a close, DraftKings has made a lot of upgrades to its loyalty program, including the introduction of the Elite Rewards Gifts and Experience Catalog. These upgrades are designed to offer customers a more unique and engaging experience with the brand, especially since DraftKings doesn't really have a partner casino operator, unlike its rivals in the casino industry. DraftKings, one of the leading online sportsbook operators in the USA, has announced significant improvements to its Dynasty Rewards loyalty program. With a range of enhanced redemption choices for members in the highest tiers, the company aims to provide unparalleled experiences to its most loyal customers. These enhancements are poised to elevate the program's appeal, particularly for users in the Diamond and Onyx levels, who now have access to a wider array of exclusive rewards. An exclusive rewards program Among the most anticipated changes is the introduction of the 2025 Elite Rewards Gifts and Experience Catalog, set to launch in January. This new offering will allow top-tier customers to redeem points for a selection of rewards, including high-end electronics bundles, tickets to Broadway shows, luxury watches, and exclusive vacation packages, among others. In a statement showing the company's dedication to customer satisfaction, Chika Chandrashekar, the Vice President of Loyalty and Experiences, expressed the brand's customer-first philosophy. "As a customer-centric brand, we are always looking for new ways to best serve our customers, and Dynasty Rewards was created to deliver unforgettable, customizable experiences and gifting opportunities for our players," Chandrashekar said. "It's important to us that we're providing a best-in-class loyalty program to our players, as well as the most rewarding offerings and exclusive access that they can't get anywhere else." Dynasty Rewards: a brief overview DraftKings' Dynasty Rewards program is structured into five tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Diamond, and Onyx. Customers progress through these tiers based on the number of tier credits they accumulate by engaging with DraftKings' offerings, which include sports betting, daily fantasy sports (DFS), and online casino games. Additionally, customers can earn points at Golden Nugget online casinos, following DraftKings' acquisition of Golden Nugget Online Gaming in May of 2022. While Dynasty Rewards is accessible to all customers, the most exclusive benefits are reserved for those in the Diamond and Onyx tiers. Members in these elite levels not only have access to the newly expanded catalog of luxury items and experiences, but they can also redeem crowns (or points) in exchange for DK Dollars, which they can use for DFS entries, sports wagers, or online casino gaming. Why DraftKings' loyalty program enhancements are a big deal DraftKings is one-half of a duopoly alongside FanDuel in the US online sports betting market. While this dominant position ensures both platforms enjoy widespread popularity, loyalty programs from online-only providers like DraftKings are often compared to those offered by traditional casino brands with land-based properties. For instance, some rivals, such as BetMGM, have been able to offer customers unique crossover opportunities by partnering with established hotel loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy. This collaboration allows BetMGM customers to redeem points for stays at MGM Resorts properties, creating a seamless bridge between the online and offline gaming experiences. Such incentives often motivate online bettors to visit brick-and-mortar casinos. DraftKings, being an online-only operator, faces the challenge of making its loyalty program just as enticing, without the physical property advantage. But by enhancing its Dynasty Rewards program, the company is aiming to distinguish itself from its competitors and offer experiences that can rival or even exceed those provided by traditional casino brands. One notable aspect is that despite DraftKings' acquisition of GNOG, the elite portion of Dynasty Rewards does not include stays at Golden Nugget land-based casinos, which are owned by Tilman Fertitta and not by DraftKings. This highlights the importance of creating unique, online-based experiences and rewards to attract and retain high-value customers. Earning your way to the top: Dynasty Rewards' elite tiers Similar to other loyalty programs in the gaming industry, achieving top-tier status in Dynasty Rewards requires significant engagement and spending. Customers begin at the Bronze tier and need 5,000 tier credits to advance to Silver. For those aiming to access the elite offerings in Diamond and Onyx, the stakes are higher: 90,000 tier credits are required for Diamond status, while Onyx tier membership demands 175,000 tier credits. For those who reach the highest tiers, the rewards are worth the effort. Elite members can look forward to Disney holidays, golf excursions at renowned courses such as Pebble Beach, and a variety of other high-end experiences. With the latest upgrades to its Dynasty Rewards program, DraftKings has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering exceptional value to its loyal customers.

Delaware Park, located in Wilmington, Delaware, is the latest casino to bring a whole new level of excitement to patrons residing in the state. It recently broke new ground on the construction of a brand-new outdoor gaming hub that will be home to over 250 slot machines. The outdoor gaming casino will become part of the grandstand, and it will allow smoking as well, much like Bally's Dover casino, which recently opened its outdoor gaming space. Delaware Park Casino has officially broken ground on a pioneering outdoor gaming enclosure, poised to become the largest of its kind in Delaware. This new gaming area, featuring more than 250 of the most popular slot gaming machines, will offer an open-air experience for guests. Set to open in spring, 2025, the outdoor gaming space is part of a strategic effort by Delaware Park to modernize and enhance its facilities. Located alongside the horse racing oval, the gaming space will be integrated into the outdoor grandstand of the facility. The casino aims to provide a unique experience for its patrons by combining the thrill of gaming with the comfort and atmosphere of an outdoor environment. Addressing the smoking ban One of the significant reasons behind the creation of the outdoor gaming patio is to accommodate guests who wish to smoke while gambling. Delaware's Clean Indoor Air Act, which came into effect in November of 2022, prohibits smoking inside enclosed public places and most workplaces, including casinos. This regulation meant that smokers had to step outside for a cigarette break, potentially interrupting their gaming experience. Delaware Park's outdoor patio will now offer them the opportunity to enjoy their favorite slot machines without leaving the casino floor. Terry Glebocki, General Manager and President of Delaware Park, highlighted the value of the new gaming area: "We look forward to offering Delaware's largest outdoor slot patio. This spacious new patio is designed with our guests in mind. They will soon be able to enjoy the outdoors while playing the area's best selection of slots, all without compromising comfort or excitement." Delaware's largest outdoor gaming place The outdoor gaming space, covering 10,000 square feet, will be climate-controlled, allowing for year-round use. With a larger footprint than the recently opened Outdoor Gaming Space at Bally's Dover, Delaware Park is positioning its new addition as the premier destination for outdoor gaming in the state. Delaware Park's decision to invest $5 million in the construction of the outdoor gaming area follows a trend of upgrades at the casino. Recently, the casino went through a $10 million renovation that revamped its interiors, replacing old carpets with more colorful and modern designs and installing newer video lottery terminals (VLTs). The updates also introduced a "Link Lounge" offering popular games like Dragon Link, Buffalo Link, and Lightning Dollar Link, alongside a high-limit room for VIP players. Additionally, Delaware Park launched The Player Rewards Club, a space where members can access their latest offers, participate in promotions, and reprint cards. A year-round attraction The $5 million investment into the outdoor gaming patio is part of Delaware Park's strategy to continue providing its patrons with top-notch experiences. The climate-controlled space will ensure that visitors can enjoy outdoor gaming regardless of the season, making it a year-round attraction. The outdoor slot patio is expected to attract a broad range of guests who appreciate the flexibility of smoking while playing or simply prefer the fresh air of an open environment. Delaware Park currently offers 44 live casino tables and approximately 1,900 slot video lottery terminals. The casino operates on the Delaware Lottery's VLT system, with the property retaining around 43% of the slot revenue and 80% of the table game profits. The leading casino in Delaware Delaware Park continues to lead the state's gaming industry. In the fiscal year 2024, the casino generated nearly $168.6 million in revenue from over $1.97 billion spent on its slot machines. Table games contributed an additional $25.1 million in revenue. This solid performance demonstrates Delaware Park's role as the top revenue generator among the state's three casinos, with Harrington Raceway & Casino being the third. Delaware Park was bought in 2021 by private equity firm Clairvest in partnership with Rubico Gaming, LLC, a San Francisco-based company led by gaming industry veteran Thomas Benninger. As Delaware Park continues to expand and innovate, its new outdoor gaming patio is expected to enhance its reputation as a premier gaming destination, drawing more visitors and providing an elevated gaming experience in Delaware.

In an investigation by Bellingcat, an investigative website, it found that a live-streaming service by controversial casino and sportsbook 1XBet, based in Russia, was fake. The allegedly staged sports matches, which were filmed in locations throughout Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, feature fake players who were playing matches from popular sports teams like 'Real Madrid' and 'Arsenal.' 1XBet is accused of match-fixing and there is an international arrest warrant for its founders, but it maintains strong ties with some of the world's top soccer teams, such as Paris St Germain and Barcelona. In a dingy gym, an underwhelming three-a-side futsal game plays out on a miniature court. The lackluster spectacle is ironically referred to as Arsenal versus Real Madrid. With no spectators or referee in sight, the players appear indifferent. A team scores, but the moment passes without celebration, the game trudging along with an air of boredom. Elsewhere, a cricket match is unfolding in a similar vein - two teams competing in a room decked with murals of cheering crowds. Yet, despite the surroundings, the atmosphere remains flat. These lackluster sports scenes may seem insignificant, but they are part of a larger, more concerning operation. These amateur games are being live-streamed, forming a crucial part of Russia-based sportsbook and casino company 1XBet's controversial betting platform. The world of 1XBet's "Live Sports" 1XBet, a name known for its aggressive marketing, offers in-play bets on thousands of such "sports" games 24/7, all year round. The games, with their lack of passion and authenticity, are broadcast solely to entice bettors into placing wagers. Once hooked, bettors often become prime targets for cross-promotion to the operator's casino offerings. In many cases, the appeal lies not in the game itself but in the deceptive lure of a free live stream - after all, who wouldn't want to watch a game between giants like "Arsenal" and "Real Madrid?" However, the reality is far less glamorous. Investigations have revealed that these amateur matches are often a far cry from legitimate competition, designed instead to feed into a murky gambling system that stretches across borders and operates outside of regulations. Banned in Russia and Ukraine, but still operating 1XBet's operations have attracted attention from investigative journalists. Bellingcat, an investigative site, recently conducted an in-depth examination of the peculiar matches, reviewing hundreds of hours of footage. Using advanced techniques such as reverse image searches, they identified the locations of these games, tracing them to venues across Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus. This revelation is critical because 1XBet is banned in both Ukraine and Russia. As a matter of fact, the sportsbook and casino's founders, Sergey Karshkov, Dmitry Kazorin, and Roman Semiokhin, faced legal trouble in Russia in 2020. Prosecutors issued international arrest warrants, accusing the trio of illegal gambling operations. The indictment painted 1XBet as one of the largest sportsbooks globally, with reported revenues of $2 billion. Meanwhile, in September 2022, Ukrainian gambling regulators revoked 1XBet's license due to its strong connections with Russia. Despite these bans, 1XBet continues to exploit loopholes, enabling the bizarre sports betting streams to persist. More than just a game: the mechanics of fake matches During the inquiry, Bellingcat uncovered more than just obscure venues and games. In some cases, players representing a particular team, such as Liverpool, would show up in later matches playing for a different club, like Barcelona. This recycling of players between games, and even between teams, cast doubt on the legitimacy of the competitions. Perhaps most disturbingly, Bellingcat and its partner, Josimar Football, discovered that some of the players involved in these sham matches were only 14 years of age. Such involvement of minors raises serious ethical and legal concerns about the nature of these games and how 1XBet structures its tournaments. Josimar Football was able to track down one of the players who participated in these staged games. While the player claimed they were not explicitly instructed to fix matches, there were clear boundaries in place - such as not scoring over five goals per game. Such constraints amount to match-fixing, as they predetermine a certain level of outcome. A tarnished brand with big ties Despite these controversies, 1XBet has not hesitated to partner with some of the world's biggest football clubs. The platform currently maintains commercial relationships with powerhouses like Paris St. Germain and Barcelona. This is despite its liberal appropriation of the names of the world's top soccer teams, using them to draw in bettors with the false allure of major sporting events. However, some teams have chosen to sever ties. In 2019, English Premier League clubs such as Tottenham, Chelsea, and Liverpool dropped their sponsorship deals with 1XBet after the sportsbook was accused of offering bets on controversial events like cockfighting and promoting a casino with a porn theme. Additionally, 1XBet was found to be one of the most prominent promoters on piracy sites that offered EPL matches which were illegally streamed. The bigger picture 1XBet's business model, blending misleading live sports streams with aggressive betting practices, raises serious questions about the ethics of the modern gambling industry. While partnerships with top clubs provide a sheen of legitimacy, the realities behind the scenes tell a different story. From sham matches to accusations of match-fixing and murky legal standings, 1XBet symbolizes the challenges regulators face in curbing the darker side of online betting and casino gaming.

Southwest Airlines, the biggest carrier in Las Vegas, has just won the bid for a spot at one of the new terminals at Ronald Reagan airport near Arlington, Virginia. The carrier will now offer daily flights from Washington DC to Las Vegas, just in time for the increased demand for non-stop flights to and from Las Vegas. Southwest Airlines, already the largest carrier in Las Vegas, is set to expand its operations further after securing one of the highly sought-after terminal slots offered at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. The new slot, awarded by the US Department of Transportation, will allow Southwest to commence daily long-haul service between Harry Reid International Airport and Washington, DC, before the year's end. This development marks an exciting chapter for both the airline and the rapidly growing Southern Nevada region, which continues to see a surge in air travel demand following the pandemic. Expanding operations Southwest Airlines won one of the five newly created long-distance flight slots at Reagan National Airport under the Federal Aviation Administration's Modernization and Reauthorization Act of 2024. This act, signed into law by President Joe Biden last May, increases the number of daily flights at Reagan traveling more than 1,250 miles from 40 to 45. These long-haul slots are particularly valuable given Reagan's location near the nation's capital and its proximity to the highly populated Northern Virginia area. Reagan National, with limited real estate and a high volume of short-haul flights, is a coveted airport for airlines. Its slots are in constant demand due to its popularity with DC residents and nearby communities, who prefer its convenience over the larger, more distant Washington Dulles International Airport. Southwest's success in securing the Reagan slot followed a competitive bidding process in which eight airlines also submitted proposals. The Department of Transportation ultimately awarded Southwest one of the prized long-haul slots, in part due to the airline's commitment to meet growing demand for nonstop service between Washington and Las Vegas. Soaring demand for Las Vegas travel Las Vegas has seen its air travel demand skyrocket over the past decade. Harry Reid International Airport recorded a record-breaking 57.6 million passengers in 2023, a dramatic increase from 41.8 million passengers in 2013. Southern Nevada's appeal as a tax-friendly, low-cost-of-living environment has attracted many new residents, especially from neighboring California, contributing to the increase in air traffic. In its bid for the Reagan slot, Southwest Airlines highlighted the growing demand for flights to Las Vegas from the DC area. The airline noted that demand for Las Vegas routes from Reagan surged by 28% from 2019 to 2023, far outpacing the overall demand for other long-haul routes from the airport, which showed only a -0.1% adjustment during the same period. Southwest's focus on this growing demand resonated with federal regulators, who were tasked with determining which airlines would benefit from the new slots. In announcing the allocation, Southwest President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Jordan expressed his optimism about the airline's new route. "Southwest has a long history of connecting people across the nation with important moments in their lives through competitive airfares, friendly and flexible policies, and the unmatched hospitality of our people," Jordan said. "We believe Southwest's new DCA-LAS nonstop service will lower fares and increase access for the nation's capital, Las Vegas, and western states." A booming market Despite Las Vegas' growing air travel demand, Reagan National had only one existing direct service to the city, operated by American Airlines. Southwest's entry into this route is expected to create more competition, potentially lowering fares and offering travelers more flexible options. Reagan National is known for its ability to command higher ticket prices due to its prime location and high demand. Southwest's move to introduce more competition on the Las Vegas route could significantly benefit travelers who frequent both cities, especially as Las Vegas continues to see record-breaking visitor numbers. DC's local casino scene While Washington Metro area residents now have easier access to Las Vegas thanks to Southwest's expanded service, they don't necessarily need to travel across the country to experience casino gaming. The nearby MGM National Harbor, located a mile from the Potomac River in Maryland, is one of the top-performing casinos in the US outside Las Vegas. In 2023, the property generated $834 million in gross gaming revenue from its more than 120 table games and 2,200 slot machines.