Can't Bet the Cavaliers on Draftkings From Virginia
Draftkings announced in 2021 that they have launched their online sportsbook in the commonwealth of Virginia. One thing you won't be able to bet on using Draftkings, however, is the Cavaliers college basketball team or any game that features them You still have other options including BetUS, now in their 29th year and offering a FREE $250 when you open your betting account with $200.
Any company looking to obtain a Virginia license to operate from the state is prohibited from taking bets on the Cavs, Hokies and other in-state schools as well as their opponents.
BetUS does not hold a Virginia license. Instead, they are licensed internationally.
“Just in time for Super Bowl LV, we are thrilled to bring the DraftKings sports betting experience to Virginia with an abundance of betting options for fans,” said Jason Robins, co-founder and CEO, DraftKings, at the time of DraftKings launch. “With our customer-first approach, we hope to be the sportsbook of choice for Virginians who enjoy having skin in the game.”
Some of us were a little suspect of a consumer research study by DraftKings that indicates Virginia sports fans are most likely to bet on the NFL, followed by the NBA and college football. The Virginia Cavaliers have been among the commonwealth's most successful teams in college basketball in past years.
The Cavaliers continue to prosper in college basketball, making it into the 2023 NCAA Tournament. It was their 25th appearance, though the No. 4 seed Cavs bowed out early against No. 13 seed Furman in a shocker.
The Cavs have not had an impressive showing in college football over the years. In 2022, they went just 3-7 Straight Up.
It should be noted that the Virginia Tech Hokies enjoy a solid fan base in college football. Draftkings can't take bets on the Hokies college football team, or their opponents, either (here, too, you have options).
Draftkings requires customers to be 21 and up. BetUS allows those 18 and up to place bets.
- Aaron Goldstein, Gambling911.com
