Kansas has recently taken a significant step into the world of sports betting, with DraftKings leading the way as one of the six online sportsbooks launched in the state. Furthermore, exciting developments are on the horizon, as Butler National Corporation’s Boot Hill Casino & Resort in Dodge City is set to open a state-of-the-art retail sportsbook in October.
DraftKings Enters Kansas Market:
On a Thursday in the not-too-distant past, DraftKings became one of the six online sportsbooks to set foot in the Kansas sports betting market. As an industry-leading platform, DraftKings offers Kansans a seamless and premium sports betting experience through its Golden Nugget Online Gaming (GNOG) branded sportsbook. The move is subject to regulatory approvals, and DraftKings is gearing up to cater to the enthusiastic sports enthusiasts of Kansas.
Boot Hill Casino’s Retail Sportsbook:
Butler National Corporation’s Boot Hill Casino & Resort in Dodge City is gearing up to embrace the excitement of sports betting. In October, the casino will open a temporary sportsbook adjacent to the casino cage, bringing the thrill of sports wagering closer to the patrons. The casino’s permanent sportsbook, expected to open in early 2023, will be an intimate and welcoming space, adorned with a beautiful bar and an LED wall as its centerpiece.
The 2,500-square-foot sportsbook will cater to approximately 60-65 people and offer an array of amenities to make visitors feel comfortable and engaged. Two teller windows, multiple kiosks, odds boards, and light food-and-beverage offerings will complement the betting experience. Notably, one-third of the renovation costs will be dedicated to top-notch audio-visual components, ensuring that patrons have an immersive experience while watching games on TV and placing bets via kiosk.
Boot Hill Casino’s collaboration with DraftKings-owned Golden Nugget Online Gaming (GNOG) for its online sportsbook further enhances its offerings. According to Chris Reedy, the vice president and attorney for Butler National Corporation, the focus is to drive tourism and boost revenue for the State of Kansas, with the sportsbook playing a pivotal role in attracting visitors to Dodge City.
Economic Impact of Sports Betting in Kansas:
With legalized sports betting gaining momentum in Kansas, the state is poised to witness a significant economic upswing. According to BetKansas’ predictions, the first year of regulated sports betting in Kansas is estimated to generate an impressive $1.78 billion handle. Drawing comparisons to other states, Kansas is projected to surpass Louisiana, which reported an average monthly handle of $142.5 million between November 2021 and June 2022.
The similarities between Kansas and Arizona, including open wagering markets and strong ties to NFL and MLB teams, make the $150 million monthly handle projection for Kansas seem attainable. Such robust growth in the sports betting industry is expected to bolster tourism and increase revenue for the state, making it a win-win situation for all stakeholders.
As DraftKings enters the Kansas sports betting arena and Boot Hill Casino prepares to unveil its retail sportsbook, the landscape of sports wagering in the state is rapidly evolving. The fusion of cutting-edge technology, exciting amenities, and a commitment to hospitality will make the sportsbook at Boot Hill Casino a sought-after destination for sports enthusiasts. Furthermore, the economic potential of sports betting in Kansas is highly promising, with projections indicating substantial growth and positive impacts on tourism and state revenue. As the industry continues to thrive, it is clear that sports betting is becoming an integral part of Kansas’ entertainment landscape.