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Since its entry into sports events contracts a few months ago, Kalshi downloads have been steadily increasing. But it hasn't quite reached the level of downloads brought by some of the most popular sportsbooks and fantasy sports apps in the US such as FanDuel, PrizePicks, and DraftKings. Kalshi, the regulated prediction market platform that recently added sports event contracts, has seen a notable uptick in downloads and public interest following a semi-viral commercial during the NBA Finals. However, despite some clear gains, Kalshi's customer acquisition efforts still pale in comparison to major players in the sportsbook and fantasy sports sectors. A new chapter with steady gains Kalshi officially launched its sports contracts in January, marking a strategic pivot intended to broaden its appeal beyond political and financial markets. According to data from Sensor Tower, the app's download numbers have steadily climbed in recent months, showing progress in Kalshi's evolution from niche market player to a more mainstream competitor. In March, Kalshi was ranked in the 200s among free finance apps on the App Store. But since early May, its position has improved significantly, routinely placing in the top 100. The app reached its best ranking - No. 54 in the finance category - shortly after its commercial aired during the NBA Finals, a spike that coincided with increased social media buzz. Although this surge provided a visible boost, it was modest compared to the scale of virality that propels apps like FanDuel or PrizePicks. Still, the progress indicates that Kalshi's efforts to broaden its user base are gaining traction, albeit slowly. Growth with limits Despite the positive momentum, Kalshi's download numbers remain well below those of more established sportsbook and fantasy platforms. Over the past month, Kalshi generated approximately 60,000 downloads via the App Store. In contrast, FanDuel, the largest sportsbook in the US, logged roughly 300,000 downloads. PrizePicks, a leader in fantasy pick'em, saw about 200,000. Comparable platforms like BetMGM and Dabble pulled in 80,000, while DraftKings Picks 6 and Caesars drew around 40,000. These figures suggest Kalshi is still in the early innings of building its user base. And while its recent improvements are encouraging, the platform has yet to approach the scale of its closest peers. Why the gap? Several factors help explain the disparity in growth. First, Kalshi is technically available in all 50 states - an advantage over sportsbooks and fantasy apps, which face regulatory limitations. Yet, Kalshi's sports betting offerings are still limited in scope and variety, especially compared to the more immersive experiences on FanDuel or DraftKings. Second, Kalshi spends far less on marketing and customer acquisition than its competitors. Top sportsbooks routinely invest millions in promotional campaigns, sign-up bonuses, and celebrity partnerships to draw in users. Fantasy pick'em apps, though smaller in reach, are similarly aggressive. A partial offset to this marketing gap is Kalshi's integration with Robinhood, a much more widely used app. Robinhood users can access some of Kalshi's markets through its platform, helping drive some crossover interest, even if this doesn't always translate into standalone Kalshi app downloads or active trading. Downloads aren't everything It's important to note that app downloads do not necessarily equate to engaged or paying customers. While Kalshi's 60,000 monthly downloads represent forward momentum, the real test will be how many of these users are actually depositing funds and actively trading contracts. A telling remark came from Polymarket Chief Executive Officer Shayne Coplan, who highlighted Kalshi's modest download performance in a recent post on X. His observation demonstrates what many in the industry already recognize: Kalshi has potential, but realizing it will require more than just fleeting virality. Kalshi's venture into sports prediction markets appears to be bearing early fruit, but the platform still has significant hurdles to overcome if it hopes to rival major sportsbook or fantasy brands in user acquisition and engagement. With a unique regulatory status and increasing public visibility, Kalshi is positioned to carve out a distinct niche. Whether it can scale that niche into a more dominant presence remains an open question.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board has sent cease and desist letters to a total of five illegal online gambling platforms that are targeting residents in Michigan. These operators include Cherry Gold Casino, BoVegas Casino, BUSR, Wager Attack Casino, and Lucky Legends. According to the MGCB, these sites accept wagers and deposits from players in Michigan for slots, sports events, blackjack, and a host of other casino games without the safeguards and oversights required under Michigan law. The Michigan Gaming Control Board has taken decisive action against five online gambling operators accused of illegally targeting Michigan residents. On Friday, the MGCB issued cease-and-desist orders to BoVegas Casino, Cherry Gold Casino, BUSR, Wager Attack Casino, and Lucky Legends, citing multiple violations of state law, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Penal Code, and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act. "These illegal sites undermine the integrity of Michigan's regulated gaming industry and put players at serious risk," said the Executive Director of the MGCB, Henry Williams. "We will not tolerate unlicensed gambling operations that exploit Michigan residents. Our top priority is to protect the public by enforcing the law and shutting down these illegal platforms." Illegal operators in the crosshairs The five gambling platforms targeted by the MGCB offered a range of casino and sportsbook-style betting options without any licensing or oversight from state regulators. Each platform was found to be actively accepting wagers from Michigan players in violation of established legal frameworks. BoVegas Casino - Operates with no regard for Michigan's licensing requirements, offering digital slots and table games that expose players to potential fraud and rigged systems. Cherry Gold Casino - Promotes a broad gaming selection but functions without Michigan oversight, leaving users vulnerable. BUSR - Promotes itself as a reputable sportsbook and casino while skirting consumer protection rules required under state law. Wager Attack Casino - Offers combined sportsbook and casino options without a license, which exposes players to unregulated operations. Lucky Legends - Advertises high-end bonuses and a VIP experience but bypasses regulatory controls essential to fair play. Consumer risks and regulatory concerns According to investigations done by the MGCB, these websites accepted real-money bets on everything from sports events to blackjack, slots, and other casino-style games. With no regulatory body ensuring compliance or fairness, players were left with no safeguards, no guaranteed payouts, and no reliable channels for resolving disputes. This kind of illegal activity strips players of basic protections, said Williams. Many users don't realize they're gambling on platforms that operate outside the law and can disappear without warning - taking deposits and winnings with them, he continued. Michigan's legal gambling market includes licensed operators who meet stringent requirements to ensure game fairness, data protection, and responsible gambling support. Illegal sites, by contrast, often operate offshore and can evade accountability. State enforces strict compliance The cease-and-desist orders serve as an official demand for these operators to stop offering their services to Michigan residents immediately. They now have 14 days to conform or face legal consequences, including potential lawsuits coordinated with the Michigan Department of the Attorney General. This enforcement action sends a clear message: If you're targeting Michigan residents without proper authorization, you will be shut down, stated Williams. He emphasized that the MGCB remains committed to monitoring the digital gambling landscape and taking action against any entities that flout Michigan's regulatory structure. To help maintain the integrity of Michigan's regulated gambling environment, the MGCB urges the public to report any suspected illegal gambling activity. Residents can contact the agency by phone at 1-888-314-2682 or by email at MIGamblingTip@michigan.gov. With the crackdown in motion, the MGCB reiterated its dedication to ensuring that Michigan's gaming industry remains secure, transparent, and beneficial to players and the state alike.

After leading by as many as 18 points, the Oklahoma City Thunder saw their lead evaporate to just two at 95-93 with 8:30 to play in the fourth. The Indiana Pacers managed to hang around, before Jalen Williams drilled a three after two misses from OKC, eventually kickstarting a huge rally to finish strong for the Thunder’s 120-109 win in a pivotal Game 5. J-Dub dropped 40 points, including a superb fourth quarter where he nailed 11 points on 50% shooting. He finished with 56% shooting overall, including an efficient 60% shooting from three. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 31 points, 10 assists, four blocks, and two steals, and OKC pulled away when it needed most. Now, the Thunder are set to return to Indiana for a chance to close out the series on the road. They are one win away from a title since moving to Oklahoma City in 2008. After a very long road, OKC is gunning its chances as the team now seeks to put the series to bed. However, it is going to be a tough challenge as they will battle a desperate Pacers squad on the road. A Historic Night For OKC J-Dub was on fire right from the start, fueling the energy and level of play that the Thunder played for the whole game. OKC was dominant right from the jump and found ways to grind out to explode for an 18-point lead at most. Indiana kept fighting back, but it was Williams who found the best shots to stabilize the Thunder’s pace and keep Indiana from making a deep push. Nothing was easy, but Williams knocked down 14 field goals – in a game just a few days after he had two bad falls that would have taken a toll on his level of play at this point. Instead, Williams came up with a statement game, and showed that he can win big for the Thunder. Williams and Gilgeous-Alexander were lighting and thunder in this win, combining for 71 points to lead the way. The star duo also was the second pair of teammates to drop 40 and 30 in a single game since LeBron James and Kyrie Irving did in the 2017 NBA Finals. Talk about being in elite company on the biggest stage of the game. Haliburton Missing? Tyrese Haliburton was held to just five field goal attempts in the first half of the game and had zero points. He finished 0-of-6 and only had four points coming off the charity stripe. He did have seven rebounds and six assists but was -13 as well. The Pacers guard also had three turnovers and three fouls. Without Haliburton breathing life into the Pacers’ offense, Indiana could only hang back, with Pascal Siakam leading the way with 28 points and TJ McConnell pushing for 18 points off the bench. No other Indiana player had more than 15 points. The team committed a total of 22 turnovers in the loss and shot 36.7% from three. With their backs against the wall, the Pacers now have one last chance to save their season as they return to Indianapolis in Game 6. It can be remembered that the Thunder managed to claim a massive win last time in Gainbridge Fieldhouse that led to the 2-2 tie. Now it seems that OKC is raring to make a deep push this time and win it all.

Backs against the wall. Season on the line. Legacy in question. Everything seems to be against the odds when it comes to the Edmonton Oilers, especially with Game 6 bringing in a lot of implications as the team heads into enemy territory in Florida. They have been in this situation before, but it somewhat feels different as they are heading to a bigger challenge. After that deflating loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 5 at home raised a lot of questions in the series, especially after the defending champions did not have any problem scoring the puck and how Edmonton’s offense was completely shut down. Losing in front of their home crowd was not a good look, and the Oilers dropping another one at home just meant that even a Game 7 at home doesn’t put them at an advantage at all. Now playing in a rink where they have dropped a massive number of goals, it seems that Edmonton’s chances are dwindling by the minute, which is worrying at this point. It cannot be denied that the Panthers are expected to be crowned back-to-back champions by the end of Game 6, and the Oilers need everything to work in their favor if they are going to defy the odds this time. The Goalie Dilemma Heading into Game 6, the Oilers remain undecided when it comes to their starting goalie. With their season on the line, both Calvin Pickard and Stuart Skinner are pegged to start off the crucial Game 6 showdown. While it does boast the team’s flexibility and incredible depth, it has been the big reason why they dropped Game 5. Edmonton trails the series 3-2, and Pickard was the starter in the Game 5 loss. Skinner was the starter in the Game 3 loss, and both players have shown impressive performances in their own right, despite not being able to win key games for their team. “We've got two goalies that have shown that they can play extremely well and win hockey games, and we feel that no matter who we choose they can win the game," Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch said. Pickard stands with a 7-1 record in this postseason, with his only start coming in that Game 5 loss. Skinner, on the other hand, has stood strong with a 7-6 record in 14 starts. What the big difference is, however, is that Skinner has experience in the clutch, going 9-1 whenever he starts in Games 5-7 over the last two postseasons. Whoever the Oilers choose to start, it has to matter for their chances of winning. Bigger Stakes for the Oilers At this point, the pressure is on the Oilers to win and survive until Game 7. After all, they are now 2,500 miles back to South Florida with the Panthers looming to go back-to-back Cup winners since state rivals Tampa Bay Lightning did the same feat in 2020 and 2021. For the Oilers to win this one, everything has to click well. For starters, Edmonton needs to counter the two-man punch of Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett, who have been able to score more than five goals each – the first for such duo in a Stanley Cup Final in over 50 years. Still, the dream of being the first Canadian team to win a championship since the Montreal Canadiens since 1993 remains alive for the Oilers. That is, until they can find a way to win Game 6 and send it back home.

The Boston Red Sox were fresh off a three-game sweep against one of the top teams in the league in the New York Yankees. The club has notched its seventh win of the last eight games, and they are set to focus on their upcoming trip to the West Coast as they are set to take on the Seattle Mariners. All of that hype and focus went away in a snap after Rafael Devers was suddenly traded. The star slugger – the last remnant of the club’s most recent success in the World Series back in 2018 – Rafael Devers is gone from wearing Red Sox club kits to putting up a new one. Boston received righty Jordan Hicks, lefty Kyle Harrison, and a pair of prospects in outfielder James Tibbs III (Giants' No. 4 prospect at the time of the deal) and righty Jose Bello. All of a sudden, the story has flipped well from being a huge season for Devers, only to end up being on the moving end of a trade that may well define the future of the club. Just six weeks before the July 31 Trade Deadline, and just five days before the two teams involved find themselves in a showdown in San Francisco. Why is the Devers Trade a Shocker? For starters, Devers was the face of the Red Sox, especially after he inked a massive deal of $313.5 million worth 10 years. Imagine how would it have held up had he stayed with the team instead of being traded. In his suddenly final game for the Red Sox, Devers notched his 15th homer and the 215th overall of his career. On top of that, he logged his 500th extra-base hit. At the age of 28, Devers is at the best of his game, well within his prime, and certainly capable of being a championship piece for his team. It can be remembered, however, that things have gone turbulent between Devers and the Red Sox in the past Spring Training, especially after the team signed third baseman Alex Bregman to a three-year deal. In that turn, Bregman became the club’s right-handed batsman and veteran leader. Devers, who is a below-average defender based on the numbers, was prominently in the third base in his whole career. He didn’t like transitioning to the designated hitter role, but eventually agreed to that shift last March. A New Star for the Giants It can be remembered that the New York Giants went for Aaron Judge in the offseason, only to fall short. They also made their case for the likes of Shohei Ohtani and Carlos Correa – also falling short in both. The Giants roster has been somewhat full of supporting cast players, but never an elite star who can win big and lead the club to bigger heights. Landing Devers in a massive deal, however, is a good move for them. In fact, it is a steal. It is rare for a star of his caliber to be involved in a trade. The mere fact that he is still in his best prime says a lot about how it is expected to turn out for the Giants moving forward. The only thing that the Red Sox can hope for is that this trade does not end up as a disastrous move like the way they did in moving Mookie Betts, which still hits hard considering that they signed Devers a big deal because of that. Now they just gave him away.

Connecticut has now officially become the second state after Montana to ban sweepstakes operators after Governor Lamont signed the online sweepstakes casino ban, SB 1235, into law. The ban on sweepstakes operators will take effect on the 1st of October and is actually part of some broader changes in regulations and laws that are set to take place across the state. Connecticut has officially become the second state in 2025 to enact a ban on online sweepstakes casinos, as Governor Ned Lamont signed Senate Bill 1235 into law last Wednesday. The legislation, which includes a broad range of changes to gaming laws and regulations, will go into effect on the 1st of October. The measure aims to tighten oversight of gambling operations in the state by outlawing simulated gambling devices not tied to legitimate commercial activity. Connecticut joins Montana, which enacted a similar ban in May, in pushing back against the rise of online sweeps casinos that operate outside the state's licensed gaming ecosystem. A unanimous legislative push SB 1235 passed the Connecticut House with unanimous approval on June 3 before moving to the Senate for concurrence and eventually landing on Lamont's desk. The bill gained swift support amid growing concerns about consumer protection and the unregulated nature of sweepstakes-based gaming. While lawmakers emphasized player safeguards, the bill's quick passage has drawn criticism from some in the emerging sweeps gaming sector. The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance, a newly-formed industry advocacy group, expressed disappointment in a statement following the House vote. "This bill was hastily passed based on incomplete information with little attempt to engage with legitimate industry operators that prioritize player protections," said Jeff Duncan, the SGLA's Executive Director. "The result is a win for the black market, and other groups with vested interests that campaigned for this bill with falsehoods and misinformation. It is a loss for innovation, competition, free choice and potential benefits for the State of Connecticut." What the bill bans - and what it doesn't The new law specifically prohibits sweepstakes or promotional drawings that either do not involve the bona fide sale of goods or services, use simulated gambling devices, or facilitate participation in real or simulated sports wagering or online casino gaming without appropriate licensure under state law. Critics of the bill raised concerns it could unintentionally affect retail sweepstakes programs offered by grocery chains or major retailers. Legislators, however, included language to address that concern. Sweepstakes operated by retail grocery chains - defined as those with five or more locations where grocery sales are the primary business - remain legal as long as prizes cannot be redeemed for cash and only serve as discounts on purchases. A booming gaming economy Connecticut is one of only seven US states with regulated online casino gaming. According to the state's latest revenue reports, the first four months of 2025 have already brought in $34.4 million in state tax revenue from online casinos, marking a 31.6% increase over the same period in 2024. Legal sports betting also contributed $9.4 million in tax revenue, up nearly $1 million year-over-year. State officials maintain that the sweeps casino ban is meant to protect this growing revenue stream by ensuring only licensed and regulated platforms are permitted to operate in Connecticut. New sports betting rules for UConn fans The new legislation also includes provisions for sports bettors in Connecticut, particularly those who follow in-state college teams. Under SB 1235, residents will now be allowed to place bets on tournaments involving Connecticut schools - including powerhouse programs like UConn - provided the tournament features at least four teams and wagers are placed on the tournament as a whole, not individual games. This change opens the door for UConn basketball fans to back their teams in postseason play via operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics. Though the UConn men's bid for a historic NCAA 'three-peat' ended early in 2025, the women's team will begin the 2025-26 season as reigning national champions under legendary coach Geno Auriemma. While the ban on online sweepstakes casinos has drawn a mixed response, Connecticut lawmakers view it as a necessary step to safeguard consumers and maintain the integrity of the state's regulated gaming market. Whether other states follow suit - as New York inches closer with its own legislation - remains to be seen, but for now, Connecticut has drawn a firm line.

While Governor Phil Murphy introduced a proposed budget way back in February that included an increase in sports betting and online gaming tax rates to 25%, a source within the industry says that legislators don't support this increase. New Jersey is still debating whether to go ahead with the proposed increases - but it is likely that either one or the other will gain approval, but not both. As the June 30 deadline to finalize New Jersey's 2026 fiscal year budget looms, lawmakers in Trenton are still wrestling with Governor Phil Murphy's controversial proposal to increase tax rates on sports betting and iGaming to 25%. While the idea promises a significant revenue boost, it faces resistance from legislative leaders and the gaming industry alike. Governor Murphy, delivering his final budget in February, laid out a record-setting $58.05 billion spending plan. Among the highlights was a proposal to raise the state's iGaming and sports betting tax rates - currently 15% and 13%, respectively - to a unified 25% rate on adjusted revenues. If enacted, the move could generate an estimated $402.4 million in additional revenue for the 2026 fiscal year. However, according to a source with direct knowledge of discussions in both the Senate and Assembly, support for such a sharp increase is lacking. There's almost no appetite to go all the way to 25%, but there is enough interest where some form of increase - at least in iGaming - is likely, the source stated. Primary election results may shape tax outcomes Recent primary elections in New Jersey are expected to influence the direction budget negotiations will take. Democratic Representative Mikie Sherrill emerged victorious from a crowded primary field, while Republican Jack Ciattarelli, a seasoned candidate and former Assemblyman, won the GOP nomination. Had Sherrill lost, sources suggest the probability of a Republican governor in the next election cycle could have exceeded 50%, which would have likely resulted in shelving any tax increases on the gaming sector. With Sherrill's victory, however, Democratic momentum remains strong, and lawmakers are more inclined to consider moderate tax adjustments. The industry source outlined two likely outcomes currently being discussed: increasing both sports betting and iGaming tax rates to 18%, or leaving the sports betting rate untouched while bumping iGaming up to 20%. Governor Murphy has stated he will defer to the will of both chambers on the final rate decisions. New Jersey among several states eyeing tax adjustments in 2025 New Jersey is not alone in its effort to rework gaming tax structures in 2025. Several other states have made similar moves this year, though none have enacted increases as steep as the 25% proposed in the Garden State. In Maryland, Governor Wes Moore signed legislation raising the sports betting tax rate from 15% to 20%. The final number came after Moore initially proposed a 32% rate, but compromise prevailed in the legislature. The tax hike contributes to Maryland's $67.3 billion budget, which also includes $2.3 billion in spending cuts and over $1 billion in new revenue. Louisiana also passed legislation to raise its online sports betting tax rate. The original proposal by Representative Neil Riser aimed for a 31% rate, but after pushback from operators, lawmakers settled on 21.5%. The bill passed the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support. Meanwhile, Illinois has taken a different approach, opting to implement a per-bet fee rather than adjusting percentage-based taxes. The state will now charge a $0.25 fee on the first 20 million online bets per operator annually, increasing to $0.50 per bet thereafter. The fee is expected to generate $36 million annually but could lead to effective tax rates of up to 60% for high-volume operators like FanDuel and DraftKings. This new structure is layered on top of a progressive tax model enacted last year, which already requires rates between 20% and 40% depending on revenue. With just weeks remaining before the budget deadline, the future of New Jersey's gaming tax rates remains in the balance. While the full 25% hike appears unlikely, operators are still bracing for some level of increase. The final outcome will depend on behind-the-scenes negotiations among lawmakers, industry stakeholders, and Governor Murphy's administration.

The Canadian Gaming Summit is all set to begin in Toronto on June 17 to 19, and it brings together more than 150 speakers and a total of 3,000 stakeholders. It is arguably the country's largest and most significant betting and gaming event, and it is expected to drive policies and innovations that will help shape the future of the gaming industry in Canada, especially with the recent major developments in Alberta and Ontario. The Canadian Gaming Summit is making its highly anticipated return to Toronto for the 28th edition from the 17th to the 19th of June. This year's event is expected to be the largest yet, drawing over 3,000 attendees and featuring more than 150 expert speakers, reaffirming its status as the most commercially significant event for Canada's betting and gaming industry. Shaping the future of Canadian gaming Taking place at the Metro Toronto Convention Center, the summit arrives at a pivotal time for Canadian gaming, with ongoing developments in Ontario's regulated iGaming market and Alberta's plans to enter the space. The summit serves as a vital platform for dialogue among government officials, regulators, and corporate leaders, offering insight into the direction of Canada's evolving gaming landscape. Among the expected attendees are 1,000 representatives from betting and iGaming operators, 200 industry affiliates, and hundreds of stakeholders from regulatory agencies, Crown Corporations, and leading suppliers. The event promises two days of strategic networking and critical knowledge-sharing opportunities. Robust conference agenda with leading voices Central to the summit is a three-track educational program that addresses the current and future state of Canada's regulated market. From Ontario's performance to the regulatory rollout, in Alberta, sessions will delve into key themes such as sustainability, responsible gambling, advertising standards, AI in gaming, and the increasing role of micro-betting and influencer marketing. The lineup of speakers includes a who's who of industry leadership. Duncan Hannay, President of Ontario Lottery and Gaming, will deliver the opening address. Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, is slated for a keynote presentation later that day. Other high-profile speakers include Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey, iGaming Ontario Chair Dave Forestell, AGCO CEO Karin Schnarr, and PointsBet Canada CEO Scott Vanderwel, among many others. Lucien Wijsman of the Electronic Gaming Academy will also lead two specialized workshops, reinforcing the summit's focus on education and professional development. A standout addition to this year's event is the new Cybersecurity Symposium, presented in partnership with OLG. With digital threats increasingly impacting the gaming ecosystem, this symposium will gather regulators, cybersecurity experts, and executives for three sessions. Attendees will also hear a keynote from Mikko Hypponen, a globally recognized authority in cybersecurity and Chief Research Officer at WithSecure. Show floor and the return of the Crown Corporation Lounge The exhibition floor is once again a major draw, offering attendees hands-on access to emerging technologies, new game launches, and business-critical services. Exhibitors include Altenar, GeoComply, BetConstruct, Konami, Payper, Lotto.com, and many more. Adding a unique dimension to the exhibition is the Crown Corporation Lounge, where delegates can engage directly with representatives from provincial entities such as BCLC, AGLC, ALC, OLG, Loto-Quebec, and LGS. This space aims to facilitate meaningful connections between operators and government-backed organizations. The summit goes beyond panels and product showcases with a series of vibrant networking events. It kicks off on June 17 with the Opening Party at RS Sports Bar. The following morning, the Global Gaming Women Breakfast Meetup will take place at the event's Official Bar & Lounge. Later that night, attendees will enjoy the Official Networking Party at the Hockey Hall of Fame, highlighted by a special appearance from NHL legend Wendel Clark. Summit's strategic vision for the future "SBC has been at the helm of the Canadian Gaming Summit for three years now, and each year we continue to focus on bringing fresh initiatives to the event, whilst also addressing the topics that are impacting stakeholders the most," said Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC. He added, "Features such as the CyberSecurity Symposium and the return of the Crown Corporation Lounge perfectly embody this commitment, evolving the event from a standard conference and exhibition to a strategic hub for collaboration, thought exchange, and deal making." The Canadian Gaming Summit 2025 is set to be a game-changing event for anyone involved in the country's gaming and betting industries. Group discounts are still available, so secure your place now.

After what has been a blazing finish in Game 4, the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers now move on to a best-of-three series in this showdown of the 2025 NBA Finals. However, this will be a must-win for both sides, as whoever wins Game 5 may end up being the one in full control for the rest of the series. It is worth noting that there are a total of 40 times that a team that ended up with a 3-2 lead in the NBA Finals went on to win the series. Nine of those that have gone 2-3 have managed to reverse it and win the series. That is a stunning 81.6% rating in the Finals, which just spices up the implications as it means that both teams will have to come up with elite performances to finish strong in Game 5. After all, nothing has been easy in the last four games. Fans have been treated to three clutch finishes, and the most recent one just showed that both teams have what it takes to go down to the wire. This just means that fans should look out for the intense spectacle that will take place in Paycom Center. Can the Pacers Win on the Road? Much has been asked of the Pacers in this series, but it is the fact that they can win on the road that has given them a massive chance to win big in most of the postseason. They have taken down massive giants one series after another, but it seems that this clash with the Thunder has hit them differently. At this point, Indiana walks in with a 7-3 record on hostile territory. The Pacers have been praised for being able to deter the massive pressure of playing against hostile crowds, beating higher-seeded teams, and defying the odds time and time again. Still, the Pacers are a massive threat, and this heart-pounding clash will not write itself without the Eastern Conference Champions bringing in the fight. “Stay in the moment,” said Pacers center Myles Turner, explaining the road approach. “It’s a hostile environment, and, in the end, this is what you dream of, playing in these environments with the highest stakes possible. I think that’s really what it is. We come together when moments get tough and just figure it out.” The Eye of the Storm The Thunder are a real threat at home, flexing a 9-2 record for the entire 2025 Playoffs. This says a lot about how the pressure rises on its opponents heading into Game 5. Paycom Center has earned a massive reputation for being loud – and it has intimidated visiting teams, while the Thunder roared along with its crowd whenever they come up with those fabled avalanches of scoring bursts. After all, OKC has won with a point differential of +21.5 at home this postseason. They have logged massive wins of 51 points (vs Memphis), 32 points (vs Denver) and 30 points (vs Minnesota) against three different teams in the West. Against the Pacers? A 16-point win in Game 2. Oklahoma City has found itself standing against adversity time and time again, and it is easy to say that the team has always endured and managed to claw its way back. They have done so again when they won in Game 4 on the road after being down 2-1. However, it is clear that this Game 5 is a must-win for the team, and they are not letting a chance to go up 3-1 pass by them.

Trent Williams is making his return to the San Francisco 49ers heading into the 2025 season, and he is not planning to repeat the same mistakes he’s made in the previous campaign. In fact, the left tackle even hopes to continue playing for as long as he can to ensure that he would get the best chances to win in their games and even prove that he is indeed one of the top players to watch as well. At the age of 36, Williams stands as a promising performer on the big stage for the 49ers, and it cannot be denied that he is also one of the aging players who is mulling retirement. However, it seems that he is holding back in that regard just yet – at least until he can cap off a promising feat that only a few NFL players manage to reach. This season isn’t new for Williams, who has played 14 runs and yet still continues to impress at a high level in the game. In fact, the left tackle has proven himself to be one of the most elite linemen in the league, and moving into the latter half of his 30s is a good note considering that he is still a top player in the league right now. Longevity Talks the Game Being in the league since 2010, Trent Williams has earned a pro-bowl nod in 11 straight seasons starting in his third year. The only time he saw that run end was in 2024, which was also the same campaign where he missed seven games due to an ankle injury that has been a huge issue for his career. Still, Williams has managed to break into First-team All-pro selections from 2021 to 2023. If you are not impressed, that latter feat came after he turned 30. It is easy to look at his achievements and give him his flowers. But knowing that he has done more and delivered even better, you can say that he has indeed deserves more credit with the way he continues to stay consistent and efficient in his career. "I would love to play until I'm 40," Williams said. “It's one of the things where I'm going to do everything possible to play as long and put a good product of football out there, and then, when it's not going my way, then I know. But I could play until I'm 41, you know, who knows? But that is a goal of mine. I'm definitely not going to retire with something left on the table." Considering that he can stay consistent at this point in his age, Williams does make a strong case to be one of the top players in the game right now. A Promise of Efficiency His age-37 season is set to unfold in the coming months. With Williams not slowing down just yet, it may be safe to say that he could still keep up the fire and continue elevating his play. "I just feel like I do myself and my teammates a disservice if I'm looking toward the end," he said. "I'm paid, people count on me to be here now. We got goals and aspirations as a team. I just don't think putting brain power toward that helps us get to where we want to go. On top of all that, maybe what drives Williams to stay on the hunt is the fact that he still lacks a specific hardware on his case. He has been in the All-Pro selections, but perhaps a Lombardi Trophy would do him well.

Rush Street Interactive is a world-renowned sports betting and online casino provider in the US - and it has just announced the launch of BetRivers Poker, which was previously only available in Pennsylvania, into three more US states: Delaware, West Virginia, and Michigan. Since it debuted last November in Pennsylvania, BetRivers Poker has garnered significant attention - and this multi-state deal creates a larger, more competitive network with more players, tournaments, and prize pools. Backed by poker legends Phil Galfond and Phil Hellmuth, the new BetRivers Poker expansion marks a milestone in regulated online gaming. Rush Street Interactive, Inc., a leading force in the US online casino and sports betting industry, has officially launched its BetRivers Poker platform in Michigan, Delaware, and West Virginia. This marks a major expansion from its successful debut in Pennsylvania in November 2024 and ushers in a new era for online poker by connecting players across four states. The newly unified BetRivers Poker network allows players from Pennsylvania, Michigan, Delaware, and West Virginia to compete together in a single player pool. This cross-state integration significantly enhances the poker experience by offering larger tournament prize pools, fuller cash-game lobbies, and more consistent gameplay. CEO applauds milestone in multi-state integration "The launch of a unified cross-state player pool significantly enhances the BetRivers Poker experience," said the Chief Executive Officer of Rush Street Interactive Richard Schwartz. "By expanding the network, we'll bring more players to our tables, offer a wider variety of games, and raise the stakes with larger tournament prize pools. We're thrilled to strengthen our poker footprint and deliver best-in-class competition and community-driven play across multiple states." Rush Street Interactive has confirmed that the platform will further expand to New Jersey later in the year, potentially adding another state to the growing poker network. Additionally, BetRivers Poker remains united with Rivers Casinos in Pennsylvania, enabling players to engage in both online and live events under one ecosystem. Designed by players, for players At the heart of BetRivers Poker is a commitment to the community that plays it. Industry veteran and poker pro Phil Galfond was instrumental in the platform's development, working closely with RSI to ensure gameplay, rewards, and features aligned with the needs of both new and seasoned players. "As poker players, we built this platform for the players - all of them," stated Galfond. "From brand-new poker players to seasoned pros, we focused on fairness, fun, unique features, and meaningful player rewards. I've been involved from day one to help shape BetRivers Poker into a platform that delivers the best possible player experience." Phil Hellmuth joins the team Adding even more star power to the brand, 17-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner Phil Hellmuth has joined BetRivers Poker as an ambassador and content creator. Known for his competitive spirit and charismatic presence, Hellmuth aims to engage and grow the BetRivers player base through live events, digital content, and personal appearances. "I've won more bracelets than anyone in history because I know how poker players think, and BetRivers delivers what they want: real competition, big moments, and a championship experience," Hellmuth said. Features that stand out in the market BetRivers Poker offers an array of innovative features that enhance both casual and competitive play. These include: Vibrant avatars: Interactive, expressive avatars that respond to gameplay in real time Cub3d Sit & Go Tournaments: A fast-paced format where players can win up to 1500x their buy-in A player-centric interface: A design shaped by direct community feedback for intuitive navigation and smooth gameplay The platform supports a full range of poker formats including Sit & Go tournaments, cash games, and Multi-Table Tournaments, ensuring there's something for every skill level. BetRivers Poker is expanding its reach through robust media initiatives. Its long-running Poker Night in America show continues to captivate TV audiences, while the launch of PokerBratTV on YouTube - featuring Hellmuth and special guests - offers fans behind-the-scenes content, live-streamed games, and player interviews. Players now have the opportunity not only to watch poker legends but also to compete alongside them in real time, further bridging the gap between amateur enthusiasts and professional icons.