Underdog Sports has recently unveiled a strategic partnership with McConnell Golf as part of its comprehensive application for a sports betting license in North Carolina. This collaboration comes as the state gears up for the launch of online sports betting on March 11, with Underdog Sports positioning itself as one of the key operators seeking approval from the North Carolina State Lottery Commission.
The Partnership and License Application
Underdog Sports, known for its rapid growth in the fantasy sports industry, has joined forces with McConnell Golf, the operator of the prestigious Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro, which hosts the PGA Tour’s Wyndham Championship. This alliance is a pivotal component of Underdog Sports’ application for a sports betting license in North Carolina. The state has seen seven mobile sports betting companies submit applications by the December 27 deadline, as it eagerly anticipates the rollout of legalized online sports betting.
The Significance of Underdog Sports
Jeremy Levine, founder and co-CEO of Underdog Sports, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration and the prospect of launching betting games in North Carolina. With a focus on innovative technology, Underdog Sports aims to provide American sports fans with unique and engaging ways to enjoy their favorite sports. Having dedicated four years to building their own technology, Underdog Sports is poised to offer North Carolinians a distinctive sports betting experience.
McConnell Golf’s Perspective
Christian Anastasiadis, COO of McConnell Golf, shared his excitement about welcoming Underdog Sports as the official sports betting partner. Acknowledging Underdog’s status as the fastest-growing fantasy sports company, Anastasiadis emphasized the alignment of values in thinking differently and challenging the status quo. The McConnell Golf team believes that partnering with Underdog Sports, backed by significant star power, is a strategic move.
State Regulatory Landscape
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper signed sports betting into law on June 14, 2023, through HB 347. This legislation permits betting from mobile devices on various sports categories, including horse racing, professional and college sports, Olympic events, and esports. The North Carolina State Lottery Commission is currently reviewing applications, with the expectation that initial applicants will be granted priority access.
As the countdown to the launch of online sports betting in North Carolina approaches, the collaboration between Underdog Sports and McConnell Golf stands out as a noteworthy development. The partnership not only reflects the strategic positioning of key operators in the state’s emerging sports betting market but also underscores the importance of innovative technology and unique experiences in shaping the future of sports entertainment. With the backing of McConnell Golf and the momentum gained by Underdog Sports in the fantasy sports realm, the stage is set for a dynamic and engaging sports betting landscape in North Carolina.