What Is Sports Betting? 5 Things to Know
Almost half of Americans are interested in sports betting. This equates to more than 100 million people who currently bet on sports or are interested in doing so. So if you’re thinking about dipping your toes in the water, you’re far from alone.
However, you should know a few basic facts before placing your first wager. What is sports betting, and how does it work? Continue reading to learn the answers to these questions and more.
1. Online Sports Betting Is Legal in Many Places
Online sports betting is legal in about twenty states as of 2021. However, this number may grow considerably in the next few years. Several states are currently passing or attempting to pass legislation that would legalize sports betting.
Some of the states that don’t allow online sports betting still allow bets to be placed in-person. Only a scant few states don’t allow any gambling.
Online sports betting is currently legal in:
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Michigan
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
In addition to the places listed above, you can bet in the following states so long as it’s done in-person:
- Arkansas
- Delaware
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Montana
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Washington
There are only a few states where gambling is illegal, and there’s no legislation being voted on. The states where gambling is currently illegal and will be for the foreseeable future include:
- Florida
- Alaska
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- South Carolina
- Utah
2. You Bet on Your Favorite Team in a Specific Game
Sports betting is when you bet on who will win a specific game or match. Depending on the type of sport, there can be two or more options. For example, a football game will only have two choices, while a NASCAR race will have many choices.
It’s important to know when a game will happen. Just like you’d you’d ask “when are powerball drawings” if you were doing the lottery, you should ask when games are airing.
3. NFL Is the Most Popular Franchise To Bet On
NFL is the most popular franchise to bet on in America and is the second most popular betting sport nationally. NFL accounts for nearly half the bets placed in the United States.
4. Avoid Offshore Betting
Offshore betting is illegal because the companies running the bets aren’t authorized to do business in the U.S. Look for reputable places to place bets.
Local bookies are always a safe option. Most sports betting online sites or phone apps are also safe. Before using an online betting source, check that it’s a legal platform.
5. No Betting on High School Sports
Betting on high school sports is illegal. But it isn’t only high school sports. You can’t bet on any sports where the participating athletes are under eighteen.
More Questions About What Is Sports Betting?
Sports betting is wagering money on your favorite team to win a specific game. There are rules and regulations on sports betting, but it’s legal in many states.
Do you have more questions about what is sports betting?
Browse our other blogs. You’ll find articles on sports, gambling, and related topics to help you learn more on the matter.