In March 2024, the sports betting industry in Arizona experienced a significant increase in betting figures, with a total handle of $150 million reported by the Arizona Department of Gaming. This marks a 25% increase from the previous month and a 50% increase from the same period last year.
The surge in betting figures can be attributed to the continued expansion of sports betting in the state, as more sportsbooks have launched and more bettors have taken advantage of the convenient and accessible options to place their bets. In addition, the popularity of major sporting events such as March Madness and the start of the MLB season also contributed to the increase in betting activity.
One of the key drivers of the increase in sports betting figures in Arizona is the partnership between professional sports teams and sportsbooks, which has allowed for unique and engaging promotions that have attracted more bettors to place their wagers. For example, the Arizona Diamondbacks partnered with a local sportsbook to offer exclusive promotions for fans attending games at Chase Field, while the Phoenix Suns have integrated sports betting into their game-day experience at Footprint Center.
The launch of mobile sports betting in Arizona has also played a significant role in the growth of the industry, as bettors no longer have to physically visit a sportsbook to place their bets. This convenience has made it easier for bettors to participate in the action, resulting in higher betting figures for the month of March.
In terms of the breakdown of betting figures by sport, basketball remained the most popular sport for bettors in March, with March Madness driving a significant amount of betting activity. However, with the start of the MLB season, baseball also saw a surge in betting figures, as fans placed their bets on their favorite teams and players.
Overall, the sports betting industry in Arizona continues to show strong growth and potential for further expansion in the months ahead. With the increasing popularity of sports betting and the continued partnership between sports teams and sportsbooks, the future looks bright for the industry in the Grand Canyon State.