North Carolina Sports Betting Poised For 2024 Launch

In June, Gov. Roy Cooper signed North Carolina sports betting into law. With that, 12 online sports betting operators will be able to offer odds in the Tar Heel State. While no official launch date has been set, we break down everything locals need to know about upcoming North Carolina sports betting apps.

When Will Sports Betting Launch In North Carolina?

There is no definitive timeline for the launch of sports betting in North Carolina. HB 347, the legislation that legalized betting, goes into effect in January 2024. Anytime after the law is in effect, NC lawmakers can launch betting.

Realistically, North Carolina officials would potentially aim to be live in time for the March Madness tournament. This would see the launch window between January and early March 2024. If they target Super Bowl betting, sportsbook apps could go live by February.

Hurdles for this figurative timeline will include reviewing and approving sportsbook applications. This process can be timely, and so far, there has been no word as to when this review process will begin. Final regulatory approvals of rules could also potentially delay the launch.

Lawmakers must release the final rules for public comment before officially approving them.

There are several months between now and when sports betting legislation is enacted. If NC lawmakers are already working towards the launch, then early 2024 is a likely launch window.

Potential Sportsbook Apps Coming To NC

The best sports betting sites will all be vying for sportsbook licenses in North Carolina. Users can expect a push from the likes of FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, BetRivers, and more. With 12 licenses available, all of these operators could potentially launch.

During its first half of 2023 update to shareholders, BetMGM included North Carolina in its future plans. This means the company is already banking on gaining a license in the Tar Heel State. DraftKings also included North Carolina in its FY 2024-2025 plans.

Residents can also expect Penn National’s new ESPN BET product to make a move for NC legislation. North Carolina will be an attractive market for sportsbooks due to its strong local sports presence.

What Teams Can I Bet On In North Carolina?

North Carolina is home to professional sports teams across multiple leagues. This includes the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA, the Carolina Panthers in the NFL, and the Carolina Hurricanes in the NHL. Additionally, there are now 18 in-state D1 collegiate programs in North Carolina. Regulations allow in-state betting, making NC one of the largest college betting states in the country.

Sportsbook regulations allow bettors to wager on all these local teams and any other team in all major sports. There will be no shortage of action once North Carolina betting goes live.