Bally Bet now live in Bay State

Seven seems to be the lucky number for the launch – not only did Bally Bet launch in its seventh state, it is the seventh live operator in Massachusetts. The state at one point had eight platforms live, but Betr and WynnBet exited the market earlier this year. That left BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, ESPN Bet, Fanatics Sportsbook and FanDuel.

Under Massachusetts law, there can be a maximum of 17 platforms. Operators can partner with existing casinos or horse racetracks, or apply for a stand-alone mobile licence. BetMGM (MGM Springfield) and ESPN Bet (Plainridge Park) are tethered to casinos. WynnBet was tethered to Encore Boston Harbor, but that licence is no longer in use since WynnBet shuttered.

Bally Bet was among the first group of digital wagering platforms to be licensed in Massachusetts. The company decided not participate in the statewide launch on 10 March 2023. It renewed its temporary licence earlier this year.

Bally Bet “super excited” to enter Massachusetts

On Monday (1 July) the Massachusetts Gaming Commission unanimously approved Bally’s operations certificate in a public meeting.

“We’re super excited to go live in Massachusetts, a state with such a rich sports history, a state where sports are part of the fabric of the community,” Bally’s chief operating officer Brett Calapp said Monday.

The launch comes weeks after the Boston Celtics won their 18th NBA championship and in the heart of baseball season. The Red Sox, currently lying third in the hyper-competitive American League East, are prepping for a weekend series against rival New York before returning home on 9 July for a two-series homestand before the All-Star break.