California’s Native American tribes have heavily opposed new sports wagering legislation. They are particularly against online betting as it would be out of their direct control.
Recent Developments in Californian Sports Betting
The recent turn of events has brought some hope to sports betting fans in California. Being one of the most populous states in the country, the state’s sports betting industry is likely to grow fast if it is finally legalized.
A few major cities in the state are actively pushing for legalization. In August 2021, they filed another sports betting proposal. It is still unclear if any of California’s initiatives will be successful. However, the signs generally point towards approval in the near future.
In spite of the hope, the state’s recall election might complicate things. If Californian voters recall Gavin Newson, Larry Elder will probably replace him. Unfortunately for betting fans, he has conservative views and opposes gambling. All sports betting proposals are unlikely to bear fruits on his watch.
State governors have submitted two sports betting bills in the last few years. Both of them got to the final hurdle, but the senate rejected them. A third bill is on the table, and it holds a lot of hope. That being said, learn about California sports betting in more detail here.
The State’s Sports Betting History
It wasn’t until 2020 that the idea of lifting the ban on California sports betting was brought forward. In November, there was a potential ballot gain interest. However, COVID restrictions and opposition from the local tribes delayed it.
In May 2021, there was a breakthrough, and the sports betting initiative got more than one million signatures. Therefore, Californians will get to vote on the decision to legal sports betting in 2022.
Consequently, state governors have a different bill on the table. Many seem eager to sign sports betting into law. While there is a high likelihood that 2022 will be the year of legalizing California’s sports betting, there are still a few hurdles to get through.
Sportsbooks to Expect in California
Currently, California doesn’t have any legal sportsbooks. However, many investors are waiting keenly for any changes in legalization. If sports betting is finally legalized, they will likely incur huge profits.
The state is already ripe for gambling expansion and sports wagering fans are excited at the prospect of finally enjoying legal sports betting. They anticipate the convenience of placing bets without having to leave the state.
With the perfect storm already brewing, operators expected to take over the state include FanDuel, Unibet, DraftKings, BetMGM, and William Hill. They are all waiting to jump at opportunities to apply for licensure.
There is a high likelihood that sportsbooks joining the state may need to partner with retail casinos. This is because the tribal coalition resists unpartnered online or retail sports wagering.
Their resistance, however, is unlikely to deter big operators who can afford to pay hefty licensing fees. They can afford to split their profits with the tribes. Kindred Group has already made a market access partnership with the Quechan Tribe. It is almost certain that Unibet will launch a sportsbook in the Golden State.
California Daily Fantasy Sports
Even though California’s sports betting industry still has a long way to go, daily fantasy sports are available. They let you come up with fictional teams and join others to create perfect teams.
You earn points if the players in your team perform well, and there are daily contests to win. Daily fantasy sports are perfect for showing off your knowledge. In the state, you have two options: FanDuel and DraftKings.
California Sports Teams to Bet On
When sports betting is finally legalized, there will be plenty of local teams will be to bet on. The state has many major league sports teams, and punters will be spoilt for choice. Here are a few of the biggest teams to look forward to.
1. Golden State Warriors: Currently, one of the most successful sports teams in the NBA history: Between 2015 and 2018, the Warriors captured three NBA championships behind Steph Curry and Kevin Durant.
2. Phoenix Suns: One a record pass to crash into the NBA playoffs in their quest to win their first Championship.
2. LA Clippers: The Clippers have never made it to the NBA finals and it will be difficult again this year, even with Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.
3. LA Lakers: One of the most successful — and exciting — NBA teams with 17 NBA Championships (three of those titles were in their first home, Minneapolis, this the name Lakers).
4. Oakland Athletics: Look for many to drop bets on the A’s: it’s a good bet is for them to win the American League West and possibly the AL pennant. The San Diego Padres are a good bet too to make the NL Playoffs.
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