BetRivers to take first Illinois bets
The BetRivers sportsbook at Rivers Casino Des Plaines will take the first legal sports wagers in Illinois today (9 March) after receiving approval from the Illinois Gaming Board.
The sportsbook, operated by Rush Street Gaming and powered by Kambi's sports betting technology, will start taking bets at noon central daylight time, following an opening ceremony at 10:00 am.
“Whether you are a seasoned sportsbook player or a casual sports fan interested in this new entertainment option, we’re dedicated to an environment where all customers will enjoy themselves in this great venue within our premier casino,” Greg Carlin, chief executive and co-founder of Rush Street Gaming, said.
The timing of the launch means that the sportsbook can take bets for the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. Sports betting in Illinois was legalized in June 2019 but has been slow to launch. Although a target of legal sports betting in time for the Super Bowl was set, this target was not met.