In a landmark achievement for the sports betting industry in Pennsylvania, sportsbooks across the state have collectively amassed a staggering $591.9 million in handle during the month of May. This impressive figure has not only shattered previous records but has also propelled the lifetime handle for the state’s sports betting industry past the $30 billion mark.
The unprecedented growth in sports betting activity in Pennsylvania can be attributed to a multitude of factors, including the increasing popularity of online sports betting platforms, the expansion of in-person sports betting options, and the return of major sporting events following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
According to data released by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, online sports betting accounted for a significant portion of the total handle, with $546.7 million wagered through mobile and web-based platforms. This represents a significant increase from the previous month and underscores the growing trend towards digital sports betting options.
In addition to the strong performance of online sports betting, in-person wagering also saw a surge in activity, with retail sportsbooks across the state reporting a total handle of $45.2 million for the month of May. This increase in in-person betting activity can be attributed to the reopening of casinos and sportsbooks, as well as the return of live sporting events that have attracted a significant amount of interest from bettors.
One of the key drivers of the record-breaking handle in Pennsylvania was the high level of interest in major sporting events such as the NBA playoffs, the NHL playoffs, and the MLB regular season. These events generated a significant amount of betting activity, with bettors eagerly wagering on their favorite teams and players in the hopes of cashing in on their predictions.
The impressive handle in May has not only cemented Pennsylvania’s position as one of the leading states for sports betting but has also provided a much-needed boost to the state’s gaming industry as a whole. With the continued growth of online sports betting and the return of live sporting events, the future looks bright for Pennsylvania’s sports betting industry, which is poised to continue its upward trajectory in the coming months.