North Carolina is one of the latest states to legalize sports betting. This has opened up a new world of possibilities for sports enthusiasts and bettors alike. However, navigating the world of sports betting can be daunting, especially for beginners. This is where a guide to North Carolina sports betting comes in handy.
This guide provides an overview of all the legal aspects of sports betting in North Carolina. It covers the regulations and requirements that must be met by both sportsbooks and bettors. Additionally, it provides information on the different types of bets that can be placed and the sports that can be wagered on.
Whether you are a seasoned bettor or a beginner, this guide is designed to help you make informed decisions about your sports betting activities. It provides you with all the necessary information to ensure that you are betting legally and responsibly. So, whether you are a fan of basketball, football, baseball, or any other sport, this guide will help you understand the ins and outs of sports betting in North Carolina.
The Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in North Carolina
Legislation and Launch
In July 2019, North Carolina legalized sports betting, but it took until March 2021 for the first retail sportsbook to open. On March 29, 2023, North Carolina will launch mobile sports betting, making it the 21st state to legalize online sports betting. HB 347, also known as the “Sports Wagering Bill,” sponsored by Rep. Jason Saine, was signed into law by Gov. Roy Cooper in 2019. It allows the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to operate retail sportsbooks at two of their casinos, and the Catawba Two Kings Casino in Kings Mountain to operate a sportsbook. The bill also allows the North Carolina Education Lottery Commission to regulate and oversee sports betting.
Retail Sportsbooks
Currently, there are two retail sportsbooks in North Carolina – both located at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel. These sportsbooks are operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and offer betting on professional and collegiate sports.
Online Sports Betting
Starting March 29, 2023, North Carolina will launch mobile sports betting, allowing residents to place bets online from anywhere within the state’s borders. The North Carolina Senate passed SB 38 in 2022 to legalize mobile sports betting. The bill includes a tax rate of 8% on gross revenue from sports betting, with revenue going towards education, infrastructure, and healthcare. Online sports betting will be regulated by the North Carolina Education Lottery Commission.
In-Person Sports Betting
In-person sports betting is currently only available at the two retail sportsbooks located at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel. However, the Catawba Nation Tribe is set to open a sportsbook at their Two Kings Casino in Kings Mountain in the near future.
Bet Types
North Carolina allows betting on professional and collegiate sports, but it does not allow betting on in-state college teams or on any high school sports. Bettors can place wagers on a variety of bet types, including moneyline bets, spread bets, totals, futures, and more.
Overall, North Carolina’s legal landscape for sports betting is evolving. With the launch of mobile sports betting in March 2023, more residents will have access to legal sports betting options. However, the state’s restrictions on in-state college teams and high school sports may limit the types of bets available to bettors.
Sports Betting Operators in North Carolina
North Carolina has recently legalized sports betting, and there are currently three retail sportsbooks operating in the state. However, the state is yet to launch any mobile sports betting apps, but legislation has been passed to allow up to 12 mobile sportsbook operators in the state.
Tribal Casinos
Tribal casinos are the only entities that can offer sports betting in North Carolina. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians owns and operates two casinos in the state, the Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, and the Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel, both of which offer sports betting.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is one of the two casinos owned and operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina. The casino has a sportsbook that offers a variety of sports betting options, including moneylines, point spreads, and futures. The sportsbook is located in the casino, and visitors can place bets in person.
Catawba Two Kings Casino
The Catawba Two Kings Casino is a new casino located in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, owned and operated by the Catawba Indian Nation. The casino is expected to open in the near future and will offer sports betting. However, it is yet to be seen what sports betting options will be available at the casino.
Mobile Apps
Currently, there are no mobile sports betting apps available in North Carolina. However, legislation has been passed to allow up to 12 mobile sportsbook operators in the state. This means that popular sports betting apps such as DraftKings and FanDuel could soon be available in North Carolina.
Payment Methods
The payment methods available for sports betting in North Carolina are limited to cash or debit/credit cards at the retail sportsbooks. It is yet to be seen what payment methods will be available for mobile sports betting apps when they launch in the state.
Sports Gambling
Sports gambling is legal in North Carolina, but it is limited to sports betting on professional and college sports. Betting on high school sports or any other amateur sports is prohibited. Additionally, betting on any esports events or any non-sporting events is not allowed.
Conclusion
North Carolina has come a long way since the Supreme Court decision in 2018 that allowed states to legalize sports betting. While the state has yet to fully legalize sports betting, progress has been made with the passing of HB 347, which brings the state one step closer to legalizing online sports betting.
For sports bettors in North Carolina, the legalization of sports betting would open up many new opportunities. They would be able to bet on their favorite NFL and college sports teams, as well as horse racing and other sports. The Carolina Hurricanes and Charlotte Hornets would also become popular teams to bet on.
Legal sports betting would also bring in revenue for the state, as it would be able to tax sports betting profits. The state lottery would also benefit, as it would be able to sell scratch-off tickets and other games at sports betting locations.
North Carolina sports bettors would also benefit from the convenience of betting apps. They would be able to place bets from anywhere in the state, as long as they have an internet connection. They would also be able to take advantage of free bets, risk-free bets, and bonuses offered by sportsbooks.
However, with the legalization of sports betting comes the risk of addiction and financial loss. It is important for sports bettors to gamble responsibly and within their means.
In conclusion, North Carolina is on its way to legalizing sports betting, which will open up new opportunities for sports bettors and bring in revenue for the state. However, it is important for sports bettors to gamble responsibly and be aware of the risks associated with sports betting.
