DraftKings names Hurley as head of sportsbook

DraftKings has appointed Sean Hurley, previously of Amelco and Whale Global, as its head of sportsbook.

In the newly created role, Hurley will be tasked with helping to build, launch and drive the daily fantasy sports operator’s sports betting vertical.

DraftKings said Hurley will focus on preparing a sportsbook as a “potential new line of business” for the company, should the US Supreme Court opt to allow the national market to be expanded.

New Jersey is leading an effort to overturn the federal 1992 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act which makes it unlawful for governmental entities to sponsor, operate, advertise, promote, licence or authorise betting, gambling schemes based on games played by amateur or professional athletes.

Nevada is the only state in which the law does not apply, but the situation may change should the US Supreme Court rule in favour of New Jersey at a hearing later this year.

Matt Kalis, co-founder and chief revenue officer at DraftKings, who Hurley will report to in his new role, said: “Sean brings a wealth of gaming experience to DraftKings and furthers our ability to be a leader in the sports betting market.”

Hurley joins the company after a spell with business-to-business sports betting technology supplier Amelco, prior to which he spent time with boutique online sportsbook and casino provider Whale Global.

Related article: Supreme Court may back New Jersey in sports betting case