BetMGM Launches In Kentucky: Will It Be Among First To Launch In North Carolina?

Noted gaming leader BetMGM launched its sports betting app in Kentucky last week. The debut marks the 21st state, plus the District of Columbia, for the BetMGM Sportsbook.

Next year, it’s anticipated that the product could be one of the first to launch in North Carolina. BetMGM is already available in bordering Tennessee.

North Carolina’s sports betting market will launch no later than June 14, 2024, and potentially as early as Jan. 8. State law allows for online sports betting and up to eight new retail sportsbooks at sports venues in the state.

The North Carolina State Lottery Commission is the regulatory body for sports betting in the state.  As of yet, no timeline has been published for license applications and approvals, and no formal list of potential sports betting operators has been revealed.

BetMGM’s Kentucky launch

On September 28th, Kentucky became the 31st state to launch sports betting. BetMGM Sportsbook was one of the online sportsbooks available on day one. The match between Kentuckians and BetMGM seemed natural to industry observers.

“Kentucky is home to some of the country’s most passionate fans. We’re confident that our sports betting platform will elevate their gameday experience,” said BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt in a statement announcing the launch.

What can we expect from BetMGM in North Carolina?

There are three primary reasons gamblers love BetMGM:

– BetMGM Rewards Loyalty

– BetMGM offers a breadth of odds on a wide range of sporting events

– They provide excellent customer service

A glance at BetMGM Sportsbook reviews on the Apple App Store reveals a 4.8-star rating. One review reads in part,

“Bonuses and promotions are good with clear rules and obvious expiration dates and are easy to apply on a wager. Synchronization with the broader MGM rewards program is seamless and easy to track.”

Users can expect an easy registration process, a simple method for depositing and withdrawing their money, free-to-play contests, same-game parlays, odds boosts and special offers, live betting, in-app highlights and much more.

Requirements to bet with BetMGM in NC

To register and bet with an NC sportsbook you must:

– Be at least 21 years of age.

– Confirm your identity.

– Be located in North Carolina to register and place a bet.

North Carolina betting apps like BetMGM will also provide responsible gaming resources, such as the state’s 1-800 number or hotline, and other help if needed.

When BetMGM is awarded a license in the state, NC Sharp will update our North Carolina sports betting promos list with the best BetMGM promo offers.

When will BetMGM launch in North Carolina?

BetMGM expressed early interest in a North Carolina sports betting license when it announced its first-half earnings for 2023.

The NC sports betting market may launch on Jan. 8, 2024. However, based on comments made by regulators, it’s possible that the launch could come later. That’s because the rules-making process may take longer than anticipated. The state seems most interested in being prudent and getting things right, rather than rushing the launch. A special three-person committee was created to shepherd the commission as it launches sports betting. The state also took the step to hire a contractor to build an online portal for licensees.

North Carolina bettors benefit from the fact that the state is launching after many others have shown the ‘do’s and don’ts’ of regulation. The NC State Lottery Commission even went outside the state to hire an executive director, one with extensive regulatory experience.

About the Author

Dan Holmes

Dan Holmes writes about sports betting, sports media, and sports betting legislative matters. He's the author of three books, and previously reported for Major League Baseball, as well as the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.