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Category: Arizona Casino & Sports Betting News

News
Written By Darren Cooper on May 25, 2023
The Santan Mountain Casino is set to open June 30 in Chandler.

With an open floorplan, banquet spaces suitable for large weddings, and a white – yes, white – roulette wheel, the new Santan Mountain Casino in Chandler is aiming to be an entertainment hub for the community when it opens June 30.

The public got a first glimpse at the $180 million casino complex last week. Construction took about two years to complete. Although June 30 is firm, the Gila River Tribe, which operates the casino, could have a soft launch before that date.

The new Santan Mountain Casino, at the corner of Gilbert Road and Hunt Highway, will be the tribe’s fourth casino.

Casino will house a restaurant that will use locally-sourced food

Sixteen Arizona tribes operate 24 Class III casinos statewide. Online casinos in Arizona for real money are still prohibited. With the success of Arizona online sports betting, lawmakers could be looking to duplicate that success with online casinos in the near future.

Blake Katsnelson, general manager of Santan Mountain, told the East Valley Tribune that the casino looks to fill an entertainment void in the area.

“Our main focus is the houses and the rooftops that are here, giving them something to do. Within a 15-mile radius, there’s not anything really out there except for downtown Gilbert. There’s really nothing from an entertainment standpoint. So that was our goal when we chose this location.”

Santan Mountain boasts over 800 slot machines on the gaming floor and more than 25 table games. This is the first Arizona casino opening after the passage of the expanded tribal gaming compact. The compact allows for legal sports betting and offerings like craps and roulette.

There will be a three-restaurant food court, plus a standalone restaurant called Honey and Vine. H&V promises to use locally-sourced ingredients from the Gila River Indian Community.

The casino will also include what is being hailed as Arizona’s largest casino sportsbook, which will be operated by BetMGM Arizona.

The Gila River Tribe has no plans to include a hotel, at least not right away.

Santan Mountain gives Gila a bigger footprint in Phoenix area

Santan Mountain will join sister properties Wild Horse Pass Casino and the Lone Butte Casino on the Chandler skyline. The tribe’s Vee Quiva Casino is in Laveen, about 25 miles away.

Back in January, Gila River Tribe Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis told KTAR news the company was comfortable adding a fourth establishment to the landscape.

“Not only will Santan Mountain bring additional revenue, sustainability and critical services to our community members, it will elevate our prestige in the gaming and hospitality industry as we continue to craft an entertainment dynasty.”

Santan Mountain will be holding a job fair to fill positions at the casino

There is talk of a grand opening concert to mark the June 30 opening, but no artist has been announced. Santan Mountain administrators will soon host a job fair, looking to fill some of the estimated 700 open jobs.

In order to ease the expected traffic congestion, the city of Chandler is installing a traffic light at the corner of Gilbert and Hunt Highway. Jason Crampton, the city’s senior transportation planner, told the East Valley Tribune that he’s concerned about traffic congestion in the area.

“The expectation though, as far as the traffic studies that I’ve seen, is it’s not going to overwhelm the system down there. It’s going to add a few thousand trips, probably, but it’s not going to crush the load of arterial streets down there.”

Santan Mountain won’t be the newest casino in Arizona for long. Desert Diamond Casinos is currently building a new casino within Chandler near Loop 303 and Northern Avenue, with an opening in late-2024.

Photo by Gila River Tribe/Artist Rendering
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Darren Cooper

Darren Cooper was born and raised in Southern Louisiana, just a short pirogue ride away from New Orleans. He started his journalism career at the New Orleans Times-Picayune and has been a writer and columnist in New Jersey since 1998. He’s won 14 statewide press awards and earned his first Associated Press Sports Editors Top 10 award in 2022.

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News
Written By Fairway Jay on June 3, 2023
Desert Diamond Sports SBC Awards

 

Last month in Manhattan, NY, Desert Diamond Sports was honored at the 2023 SBC Awards North America with two prestigious awards: Industry Rising Star of the Year and Tribal Gaming Operator of the Year.

Desert Diamond Sports is powered by Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment, and both are enterprises of the Tohono O'odham Nation. Both entities also have undertaken an incredible journey to become leaders in Arizona's burgeoning sports wagering market.

Other winners at the SBC Awards included FanDuel as Sportsbook of the Year and BetMGM as Casino Operator of the Year.

Desert Diamond Sports mobile app hangs with the big boys

Desert Diamond Sports is the only locally-owned mobile sports wagering operator in Arizona. Starting from the ground up with a small initial team in August 2021, the operation at Desert Diamond Sports has grown to become the fifth largest mobile operator in the state behind nationally-recognized sports betting operators and brands FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars.

"As a new digital sports betting organization entering a very competitive market, we faced unique challenges, said Brett Calapp, CEO of Desert Diamond Sports. "We were determined to make an example of our story with the hope of empowering similar local casinos that they too can run their own operations without hiring hundreds of people or selling their license."

When legal Arizona sports betting launched in September of 2021, some Arizona casinos partnered with US-based mobile sportsbook operators to also offer sports betting online. Desert Diamond Sports is the only Arizona sportsbook that didn't partner with an outside entity. With the support of Kambi and Strive, Desert Diamond Sports launched its website and mobile apps at the end of January 2022.

Desert Diamond Sports online and retail sportsbook shines

The same, great sports betting experience offered at land-based Desert Diamond Casino locations can now be duplicated online through a convenient Desert Diamond Sportsbook mobile app. A few of the more prominent features of the Desert Diamond sports app include an easy-to-navigate interface backed by a professional betting board design. Within the state of Arizona borders, fans and bettors can place bets through a simple one-click process and opt for customizable notifications covering activity.

Desert Diamond Sports' mobile app complements the retail sportsbook experience offered at Desert Diamond Casinos' Tucson, Sahuarita, and West Valley locations, which launched in December 2021. Together, both operations are enhancing the Desert Diamond brand's reputation for sports betting entertainment.

Desert Diamond Sports success story is built through a loyal customer service base that enjoys a strong local brand that's dedicated to hiring a passionate and talented team. DDS has received consistent support from the Tohono O'odham Nation and its Gaming Enterprise. The award-winning team continues to improve the sportsbook experience for customers by adding new sports, improving UI/UX, superior customer service, and more.

Photo by Desert Diamond Sports
Fairway Jay

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Fairway Jay

FairwayJay is a leading national sports and betting analyst. He reports, researches and writes on industry news and events providing insight and information you can bet on to engage and assist the avid fan. FairwayJay’s tee-to-green coverage and contributions are provided throughout the PlayUSA network. Follow on Twitter: @FairwayJay

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News
Written By Cole Rush on June 7, 2023
Sahara Bets' partnership with the Phoenix Coyotes could be in jeopardy

 

The Arizona Coyotes may not have "Arizona" in their name for long.

The team's proposed $2.1 billion entertainment complex – including a home arena for the Coyotes – was overwhelmingly rejected by Tempe voters last month. Despite the team being optimistic the vote would go their way, residents showed up in record numbers to show their dissatisfaction with the plan.

ESPN quoted a team source after the vote.

"There's no Plan B at this point."

The team's betting partner, Sahara Bets, could also be out of Arizona after the Coyotes' defeat at the ballot box.

Tempe voters soundly defeat plan to build entertainment complex for Coyotes

While betting on the Coyotes is not a safe bet, overall Arizona online sports betting has been brisk. The Phoenix Suns made it to the Western Conference semifinals, and the MLB's Arizona Diamondbacks are currently leading the National League West Division.

The entertainment complex for the Coyotes required three ballot questions to pass, propositions 301, 302 and 303. All three failed.

Props 301 and 302 failed 56% to 44%, while 303 lost 57% to 43%, according to AZCentral. In fact, turnout was so strong in early voting that there weren't enough same-day ballots to swing the vote in the Coyotes' favor.

This final blow came after a series of losses for the Coyotes over the years.

  • A 2009 bankruptcy filing, which resulted in temporary ownership by the NHL
  • A bitter split from Glendale
  • Various potential relocations that all fell through, including one to the Arizona State University campus
  • Missing the playoffs 10 of the last 11 seasons

The Coyotes must now take their talents elsewhere, but nobody's quite sure where that'll be. The failure of the team's Tempe initiative also leaves another Arizona entity in jeopardy: Sahara Bets Sportsbook.

Sahara Bets could be high and dry if Coyotes leave the state

Arizona sports betting law allows for up to 20 sportsbook licenses: 10 for sports franchises and 10 for the state's Native American tribes. Sahara Bets is part of the former group via its partnership with the Arizona Coyotes. But what happens if the Coyotes abandon the desert for icier pastures?

First, it's likely that Sahara Bets and the Arizona Coyotes would part ways. No bad blood, of course. Just sheer necessity. What use does an Arizona sportsbook operator have for a partnership with an out-of-state team?

Without a partner, Sahara Bets can't operate in Arizona. The state requires operators to have a license partner, and the Arizona Coyotes would leave Sahara Bets partnerless.

Further complicating the matter is the fact that Sahara Bets and the Arizona Coyotes are both owned by Alex Meruelo. Sahara Bets was a shoo-in for the partnership because he owns the team. Other organizations may not be so quick to partner up with a lesser-known brand.

Sahara Bets does have a few options in Arizona

Last month, PlayInAZ contemplated the possible contenders for the vacant license left by Fubo Sportsbook's exit from Arizona. Now, the Coyotes would leave another license spot up for grabs. That's good news for Sahara Bets. Should the Coyotes leave the state, there are still some AZ sports franchises that have yet to partner with sportsbooks.

Here's a quick look at the franchises that do have partners:

  • Phoenix Suns: FanDuel
  • Arizona Diamondbacks: Caesars
  • Phoenix Mercury: Bally Bet
  • Arizona Cardinals: BetMGM
  • Phoenix Raceway/NASCAR: Barstool
  • PGA/TPC Scottsdale: DraftKings
  • Arizona Rattlers: (BetRivers)

AZ sports fans will quickly realize that's most of the household names in the state. Sahara could explore a few remaining options, such as the Phoenix Rising FC of the USL. The Tucson Saguaros of the Pecos League or the Tucson Roadrunners of the AHL could also be contenders. Still, it's hard to say whether any of those teams would be interested in a sports betting partnership or license.

There's the financial angle to consider, too. The Arizona Department of Gaming charges $750,000 initially for licensing, plus $100,000 as an application fee and a yearly $150,000 renewal. No small potatoes and Sahara Bets would need to partner with an organization that's both able and willing to shell out the license fees upfront.

Two new casinos are coming to Arizona as well. One will be in Phoenix, the Desert Diamond, operated by the Tohono O'odham Gaming Enterprise, and the Santan Mountain Casino in Chandler, run by the Gila River Indian Community. Both tribes have partnerships already. The Tohono O'odham Nation runs Desert Diamond, while the Gila River Tribe is partnered with BetMGM Sportsbook AZ.

All 10 tribal licenses are spoken for, which means Sahara Bets would need to find a sports franchise to partner with.

Vultures circling?

One vacant license following Fubo's exit and another potential opening if the Coyotes leave Arizona could create a feeding frenzy among operators. Sahara Bets could be among them.

Other potential operators interested in the Arizona market could include PointsBet (the operator's US assets were recently acquired by Fanatics), Betr, Sports Illustrated, and many others. Because of the limited number of licenses available, Arizona remains a highly competitive market.

If the coyotes leave, we could see a race and/or a bidding war to get in on the action.

Photo by Ross D. Franklin/AP Photo
Cole Rush

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Cole Rush

Cole Rush writes words. A lot of them. Most of those words can be found in gambling publications such as PlayIllinois, iGaming Business, Gaming Today, Bonus.com, MidwestSharp.com, ICE 365, and IGB North America. Cole also covers pop culture and books for Tor.com and TheQuillToLive.com. Cole has more than eight years of experience writing about gambling and entertainment.

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News
Written By Darren Cooper on June 8, 2023
Chase Field is the most affordable MLB park for a family of four to attend a game.

The Sporting Post recently released a breakdown of each of the 30 MLB ballparks to show which is the most affordable for a family of four to attend a game. Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks, was found to be the most affordable, edging out the Miami Marlins’ loanDepot Park.

The average cost for a family of four to take in a game at Chase is $146.

That’s about how much it would cost you for two tickets at Chavez Ravine in LA to see the Dodgers.

Chase Field is a must-see ballpark

Chase Field has undergone a few name changes over the years (Bank One Ballpark, anyone?). But it remains a must-see spot for baseball fans with its retractable roof and swimming pool in right-center field. By the way, the pool holds 35 guests for around $5,000 to $7,000 a head … and it does sell out.

Chase has updated its amenities, with a magnificent retail Caesars Sportsbook just across from the main entrance. It’s a great place to make a wager with the money you just saved on D-backs tickets. There’s also Guy Fieri’s DTPHX Kitchen + Bar, which features an eclectic menu of the chef’s most famous dishes. There is plenty to do and see on game day at Chase Field.

Chase offers affordable, unique eateries

The Sporting Post calculated the total price of four tickets, four hot dogs, two beers, two soft drinks, two hats and also parking for each MLB team.

Chase Field offers the cheapest premium ticket average price of $22.12. If you look at the Chase Field “Value Menu,” you can get a small beer for $4.99 and a small soda for $2.99. It’s also $2.99 for a corn dog and popcorn.

Baseball parks around the country have gone to great lengths to include unique eateries at their stadiums. Chase Field is no different. Among some of the special offerings are the Big Dawgs spot (specialty hot dogs), the Cactus Corn, Rey Gloria’s Tamales (a life-changing experience), a dough bar (exactly what it sounds like), and six Cold Stone Creamery locations. Yes, six.

Parking is less than half what it costs to park in LA

Parking at and around Chase Field checks in at an average of $13.90. It’s $30 for general parking at a Dodgers game.

You can pick up a souvenir D-backs hat for less than $10. If you want to take Dad to a game on Father’s Day, June 18, good seats can be had for $35. Plus, the D-backs are giving away Hawaiian shirts to those with dad bods. Pretty good haul for a Sunday holiday. And, hopefully, you’ll get to watch the No.1 team in the NL West.

By the way, the most expensive stadiums for a family of four are Fenway Park in Boston and Wrigley Field in Chicago.

Diamondbacks currently in first place in division

Not only does Chase Field have a Caesars Sportsbook AZ at the stadium, but Arizona sports betting also includes more than a dozen online sportsbooks. Placing a bet on your Diamondbacks might pay off well this season.

The D-backs are currently in first place in the National League West Division. Celebrating their 25th anniversary in 2023, the D-backs have surprised baseball analysts by moving into first a few games ahead of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

After a 74-88 finish in 2022, not many people were thinking about the D-backs entering this season. But things have come together for manager Tory Lovullo. Arizona’s young bats have been led by Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who is currently seventh in the National League with a .310 average. Outfielder Corbin Carroll has cooled a bit from his torrid start to the season and is batting .300. Christian Walker has a team-high 36 RBIs.

On the mound, the D-backs boast two of the four seven-game winners in the National League in Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly.

DraftKings still has the Dodgers as favorites to win the division at -260, with the D-backs next at +425, followed by the Padres at +700.

Photo by Darryl Webb/AP Photo
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Darren Cooper

Darren Cooper was born and raised in Southern Louisiana, just a short pirogue ride away from New Orleans. He started his journalism career at the New Orleans Times-Picayune and has been a writer and columnist in New Jersey since 1998. He’s won 14 statewide press awards and earned his first Associated Press Sports Editors Top 10 award in 2022.

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News
Written By Cole Rush on May 15, 2023
Arizona sports betting numbers

Arizona sports betting numbers for February 2023 are in. The state is a tad behind other markets in reporting, but AZ’s February data shows us a few interesting trends.

Most notably, February handle increased by $117 million from February 2022. February 2023 handle was $609 million, a 3% bump from January 2023.

Arizona’s ups and downs

Handle may have gone up, but growth wasn’t the whole story for the state in February.

In January 2023, operators reported $46.2 million in sports betting revenue. February 2023 saw a significant dip to $34 million. Of Arizona’s roughly $609 million in handle, $573.9 million was paid back to players in winnings.

One conclusion to draw: players wagered a lot in February, particularly around the Super Bowl. Revenue accounts for the winnings paid back to players. It could mean Arizona bettors had a generally successful month of betting. Arizona also hosted the Super Bowl, which explains the big jump in handle. Visiting fans may have come from prohibited markets and placed bets.

It’s hard to pin down a particular reason for the sports betting revenue decrease, but one other possible explanation is the absence of other major sports surrounding the Super Bowl.

A few lucky operators

Of Arizona’s many operators, only a few managed to increase their profits in February over January: FanDuel and Betway.

FanDuel Arizona took $218.9 million in mobile and online wagers, a 12% increase from January 2023.

Meanwhile, FanDuel’s rival DraftKings fell to 161.5 million in handle, losing some ground to its fiercest competitor.

Retail operators saw some solid performances as well. BetMGM’s retail sportsbook drew in nearly $1.3 million in handle, while FanDuel’s took in $1.8 million.

Restaurants and bars dip

Arizona also allows limited wagering operators in certain locations, such as bars and restaurants. These ten operators took $762,505 in wagers, down from January’s $1 million. The 8% tax rate meant a $6,673 contribution compared to the much higher $1.6 million from online and commercial retail operators.

Sports betting shake-ups

Arizona’s sportsbook industry recently lost an operator with the withdrawal of Fubo. That leaves a license up for grabs, but as of yet, it’s unclear who will snag it.

PointsBet was initially on the list of contenders, but the company’s US assets are being purchased by Fanatics. Chances are we’ll see the completion of that purchase before PointsBet (or whatever it becomes under Fanatics) comes to Arizona.

Time will tell who comes to the Arizona sports betting market.

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Cole Rush

Cole Rush writes words. A lot of them. Most of those words can be found in gambling publications such as PlayIllinois, iGaming Business, Gaming Today, Bonus.com, MidwestSharp.com, ICE 365, and IGB North America. Cole also covers pop culture and books for Tor.com and TheQuillToLive.com. Cole has more than eight years of experience writing about gambling and entertainment.

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Written By C.J. Pierre on May 20, 2022 – Last Updated on March 10, 2023

The legalization of sports betting in Arizona in September 2021 opened the doors to a new world for people in the Grand Canyon State. Particularly for young adults in Arizona. Now putting money down on games seems as easy as posting a picture on Instagram.

Advertisements for sports betting apps are flooding the Valley. You can see them anywhere, from billboards to Twitter. However, it can be very easy for anyone to fall into the deep, dark hole of gambling addiction.

The Arizona Department of Gaming is working to prevent young people in the state from falling victim to problem gambling.

Exclusion solution to youth problem gambling

The Arizona Division of Problem Gambling is warning young adults of the dangers of sports betting and finding themselves in a financial hole.

Anyone 18 years of age and older can bet on sports in Arizona. Meaning college students still reliant on their parents’ wallets can take part. According to the Fantasy Sports and Gaming Association, half of sports bettors are between 18 and 34 years old, and only 45% of them have full-time jobs.

The division has an online quiz with questions designed to get the user to think about the possibility that they might have a problem. One of the questions states, “Has there ever been a period when, if you lost money gambling one day, you would often return another day to get even?”

The ADG has solutions for anyone looking to cut themselves off from betting.

There is an Event Wagering & Fantasy Sports Contests Self-Exclusion form on the website. There, you can pick out a period of time to exclude yourself from sports betting using an in-person casino or mobile apps and non-tribal retailers options. The time period you choose can include a year, five years or even a decade. However, once you make that request, you will not be able to change it or have it reversed.

Preventing problem gambling in Arizona

There are endless opportunities to gamble in Arizona. Just look at social media. Since the state’s launch of legal sports betting, our Facebook and Twitter feeds have been bombarded with ads for AZ sportsbooks. Not to mention the laundry list of advertisements for sports betting apps we see during commercials while watching games.

From September 2021 to February 2022, Arizona’s sportsbooks have placed $2.8 billion in online and retail wagers. Sports betting can be a fun adventure. However, it is easy to get sucked in with so many exciting games and ads portraying betting as a can’t-lose scenario.

Furthermore, people can lose a lot when addicted to sports gambling, like their careers, house or relationships. The ADG’s Problem Gambling division exists to prevent that by informing younger adults of the future impact betting can have.

You can also find additional resources by using the Treatment Assistance Program on the department’s website.

Photo by AP / John Locher
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C.J. Pierre

CJ Pierre is a multimedia journalist currently residing in the Phoenix-Metro Area in Arizona. He has been covering news and sports for over a decade for both online and TV broadcasts. He was born and raised in Minneapolis and an alum of Minnesota State University: Moorhead. CJ has experience as a reporter and videographer and has covered high school, college and professional sports throughout his career. Most notably following Arizona Cardinals, Phoenix Suns, Minnesota Vikings and North Dakota State University football.

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Written By Fairway Jay on March 13, 2023
Arizona teams prepare for 2023 March Madness

The NCAA Tournament has arrived, and March Madness begins with wall-to-wall watch and wager action on college basketball’s biggest event. The highlight for sports fans is watching and wagering on 48 college basketball games over the opening four-day weekend March 16-19.

St. Patrick’s Day will also make for much celebration for basketball fans and others looking to enjoy the pools and cocktails at their favorite casinos and sportsbooks.

With one of the most anticipated and fun weekends of the spring upon us, here’s what casinos and sportsbooks are doing to allow Arizona sports betting enthusiasts to enjoy March Madness even more as three teams from Arizona play in the Big Dance.

Arizona Teams to Watch During March Madness

Selection Sunday on March 12 revealed three college teams in Arizona playing in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. The Arizona Wildcats (28-6) are a No. 2 seed in the South Region. The Wildcats come off a first place finish in the Pac-12 Tournament in Las Vegas, and now travel to Sacramento, CA to play no. 15 seed Princeton on Thursday, March 15, at 1:10 p.m. PT.

If Arizona beats Princeton, it would face either No. 7 Missouri or No. 10 Utah State to advance to the Sweet 16 in Louisville, Ky.

The Arizona State Sun Devils (22-12) made the 68-team NCAA Tournament field as one of the last teams in the bracket. The Sun Devils are in a First Four play-in game against fellow No. 11 seed Nevada. That game in Dayton, Ohio, is set for Wednesday, March 15, at 6:10 p.m. PT. A win sends the Sun Devils to Denver to play No. 6 TCU at 7 p.m. PT on Friday, March 17.

Phoenix’s Grand Canyon University (24-11) won the WAC championship to make it to the NCAA Tournament. Grand Canyon is a No. 14 seed and plays No. 3 Gonzaga Friday, March 17, in Denver starting at 4:30 p.m. PT. The Antelopes have an uphill battle as a -15.5 point underdog against the Bulldogs.

March Madness Casino Viewing Options

  • Casino Arizona – Scottsdale
  • Casino Del Sol – Tucson
  • Desert Diamond – Tucson, Glendale and Sahuarita
  • Lone Butte – Chandler
  • Wild Horse Pass – Chandler  
  • Vee Quiva – Laveen Village
  • Mazatzal – Payson
  • Paradise – Yuma
  • We-Ko-Pa – Fort McDowell
  • Apache Gold – San Carlos
  • Apache Sky – Winkelman

Most of these locations with TV viewing spots are free. Wild Horse Pass does have a fee up to $125 per person. 

The Casino Arizona CAZ sports bar in Scottsdale has two theater quality projection screens plus a huge video wall with 46 4k flat screen televisions to watch the games while enjoying food and beverage specials. 

Sportsbook Offers in Arizona

Sports betting is legal in Arizona. If you like to watch and wager on the games, you can choose from 17 Arizona sports betting apps. Many online sportsbooks offer enticing promotions, including: 

You cannot place player props in Arizona, but you should find lots of game props on NCAA Tournament games, plus alternative spreads, totals and same game parlays. However you choose to enjoy March Madness, take advantage of all the opportunities to enjoy the college basketball games, and use responsible gambling resources if you’re struggling with a gambling habit or want to discuss with a training counselor.

Photo by AP Photo / Chase Stevens
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Fairway Jay

FairwayJay is a leading national sports and betting analyst. He reports, researches and writes on industry news and events providing insight and information you can bet on to engage and assist the avid fan. FairwayJay’s tee-to-green coverage and contributions are provided throughout the PlayUSA network. Follow on Twitter: @FairwayJay

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Written By Fairway Jay on March 27, 2023 – Last Updated on March 28, 2023
Turf Paradise repair racetrack Rail

Turf Paradise in Phoenix has been ordered to complete repairs of an “unsafe” racetrack rail by March 31. Failure to comply with the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s (HISA) order will result in sanctions. Those include being prohibited from out-of-state simulcasting starting in April.

Turf Paradise general manager Vince Francia said last week that repair crews have been working “literally, night and day” to bring the rail into compliance. He added, “we have every intention of getting the work done by the deadline.”

Horse Racing and Sports Betting

The horse racing industry is at an unprecedented crossroads with the legalization of Arizona sports betting. There are three horse racing tracks in Arizona, and Turf Paradise operates the longest meet from late-October through early-May. The track also has a retail sportsbook and betting kiosks for fans interested in wagering at the track beyond pari-mutuel betting on horse racing.

But the popularity of simulcast racing and betting on races at other tracks across the country, including the biggest stakes and races like the Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown races, could be taken away soon until Turf Paradise complies with HISA’s rail orders.

What’s Going On With The Rail?

The ruling said that Turf Paradise had failed to comply with an earlier agreement to repair the rail. HISA had issued a notice of alleged violations to Turf Paradise in January that included deficiencies at the track related to HISA’s safety rules.

Turf Paradise reached an agreement with HISA on Feb. 24 on those non-compliance agreements. The venue paid $150,000 in assessment fees, not fines, to ensure its track meets updated standards.

Racetrack Laws and Regulations

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority was created by Congress in July 2022. Its goal is to provide a uniform set of safety rules and promote a safe environment for horses. The Federal Trade Commission oversees HISA. Turf Paradise officials held off signing an agreement with the organization because some rules conflict with state racing regulations, and they feared losing their Arizona operating license.

HISA does not have the authority to cancel races at the track. But under HISA’s enabling regulation, the authority has the power to rescind a track’s ability to send its signal across state lines if the track is found to be in violation of one of the authority’s rules.

A Daily Racing Form report indicated that simulcast handle generally makes up approximately 90 percent of a track’s total wagering. However, revenue from simulcasting is far smaller than on-track handle.

The railing issue is clearly a safety hazard to jockeys, horses, and other riders at the track. A hearing on March 16 came after HISA stewards and employees conducted an examination of Turf Paradise’s rail. They provided photographs while describing in detail the “deteriorated condition of the railing material.”

Photo by AP Photo / Matt York
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Fairway Jay

FairwayJay is a leading national sports and betting analyst. He reports, researches and writes on industry news and events providing insight and information you can bet on to engage and assist the avid fan. FairwayJay’s tee-to-green coverage and contributions are provided throughout the PlayUSA network. Follow on Twitter: @FairwayJay

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Written By Jarrett Huff on December 14, 2022 – Last Updated on January 30, 2023
governor ducey tribes arizona sports betting market

With the Arizona sports betting industry booming, not all parties are reaping the rewards — that being the Native American tribes. The tribes fear they’re losing their place in the market.

While in 2022, tribal gaming in Arizona has contributed a record amount to the state as of Dec. 2, there’s fear that it’s all downhill from here. Many fear they won’t be able to compete with commercial sports betting in Arizona in the long term.

According to the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG), tribes contributed around $123.6 million to the state government — 90% of which goes toward the department.

Ted Vogt, director of the ADG, is pleased with the numbers tribal gaming has produced. Vogt said:

“It is safe to say 2022 was historic for Arizona tribal gaming. I am ecstatic to see the highest levels of tribal contributions to the state following the Amended Tribal-State Gaming Compact signed by Gov, Doug Ducey last year.”

What is the Amended Tribal-State Gaming Compact?

The Amended Tribal-State Gaming Compact puts limitations on casinos; however, it allows for them to only be owned and operated by tribes within the state. Despite this, the amendment allows for entities that are not tribes to operate sportsbooks within the state – something that is a concern for the National Indian Gaming Association.

Jason Giles, the executive director of the National Indian Gaming Association, said:

“The big fear now is loss of exclusivity. Gaming is the only thing that has ever worked for us. Since 1492 when Columbus landed, it’s the only thing that has worked. That’s why we fight so hard.”

Arizona gambling competition among tribes is problematic

Arizona legalized sports betting in April 2021, with a different requirement for operators looking to acquire a sports betting license when compared to other states; they have to be a Native American tribe or a professional sports team or league. With that, Arizona only allows for 20 licenses in the state; 10 for the tribes and 10 for commercial operators.

Twenty-two tribes in the state of Arizona compete over the 10 licenses granted to them, while only eight of the 10 available licenses are currently in use by commercial entities. In the first full year of legalized sports betting in Arizona, over 95% of the $5.4 billion wagered came from five AZ sports betting apps:

  • Barstool Sports
  • BetMGM
  • Caesars
  • DraftKings
  • FanDuel

Charlene Jackson, an attorney who represents rural tribes in Arizona, felt the tribes were at a disadvantage from the start when sports betting was legalized:

“The competition for the commercial licenses wasn’t there. From Day 1, those that knew they met [Arizona] Department of Gaming standards were free to start planning, spending the money, putting together their advertising, bringing in technology, seeking the licenses for that technology – expending that capital and investing in sports betting. They did this while those of us on the tribal side were competing for a license.

“Quite frankly, we were left behind,” Jackson said. “The numbers reflect that.”

With casinos confined to reservation lands, it’s difficult for the tribes to drive traffic the way commercial sportsbooks can. The competition thrives in bars, restaurants, sporting venues and on phones across the state – unrestricted by reservation boundaries.

Maybe 10 sports betting licenses for tribes is a good thing?

While there are some out there that would like to see all 22 tribes in Arizona receive a sports betting license, others argue the market couldn’t handle the competition.

Jackson believes the state was right in giving the tribes only 10 licenses was the right move. The flipside could see over 30 licenses in the state. She had this to say on how the market would handle that:

“We did not know that the market would hold that. If a tribe went to market and shut its doors, that would be worse.”

Arizona sportsbooks with pro sports team partnerships

The commercial sportsbooks quickly aligned themselves with professional sports teams due to the lack of competition between the teams and venues.

Here are the eight AZ sportsbooks with league partnerships:

  • Bally’s: Phoenix Mercury
  • Barstool Sports: Phoenix Raceway
  • BetMGM: Arizona Cardinals
  • Caesars: Arizona Diamondbacks
  • DraftKings: PGA Tour and TPC Scottsdale
  • FanDuel: Phoenix Suns
  • Rush Street Interactive: Arizona Rattlers
  • Sahara Bets: Arizona Coyotes
Photo by Ross D. Franklin / AP
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Jarrett Huff

Jarrett Huff is a former sports editor at Northern Star Media from Wonder Lake, Illinois. Friends and family will tell you he’s an NBA history nerd with a diehard passion for the Chicago Bulls, Bears and Cubs.

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News
Written By Jarrett Huff on January 10, 2023 – Last Updated on January 30, 2023
arizona benefit fund enviornmental conservation

Tribal gaming contributions to the Arizona Benefit Fund yielded a robust second quarter for fiscal year 2023, seeing a 95% increase from fiscal year 2022. The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) announced $41,876,352 would go to the fund.

The Arizona Benefit Fund receives 88% of all tribal gaming contributions to the state, which goes toward instructional improvement in schools, trauma and emergency care resources, tourism and wildlife conservation projects.

The tribes hand out the remaining 12% to cities and counties of their choice. Those funds are used for various public safety programs and community services at the discretion of the local governments.

Ted Vogt, director of the ADG, attributes the increasing tribal contributions to the amended tribal gaming compacts:

“With back-to-back record quarters of tribal contributions, it is clear the 2021 amended Arizona Tribal-State Gaming Compacts signed by Gov. Doug Ducey and Arizona tribes have modernized gaming in the state. Newly legalized casino games like craps and roulette have increased gaming activity and tribal contributions, underscoring the benefits new gaming opportunities have yielded for all of Arizona.”

Since 2004, tribal gaming has contributed over $1.74 billion to the Arizona Benefit Fund.

Breakdown of the Arizona Benefit Fund’s disbursement

Funds from tribal gaming contributions for the second quarter of fiscal year 2023 were dispersed as follows:

  • Instructional Improvement Fund/Education: $20,871,174
  • Trauma and Emergency Services Fund: $10,435,587
  • Arizona Department of Gaming operating costs: $3,768,872
  • Arizona Wildlife Conservation Fund: $2,981,596
  • Tourism Fund: $2,981,596
  • Problem Gambling Education, Treatment and Prevention: $837,527

Tribal gaming in Arizona

In Arizona, only Native American tribes are able to own and operate casinos. However, due to the Amended Tribal Gaming Compact, entities that are not a Native American tribe are able to operate sports books within the state.

Arizona allows up to 20 sportsbook licenses to operate within its borders; 10 are granted to the tribes, and 10 are granted to other entities. Currently, only eight licenses from non-tribal entities operate within the state. All 10 licenses granted to the tribes are in use.

This has created competition among the 22 tribes that call the state of Arizona their home, while the non-tribal entities experience very little amongst each other.

Non-tribal Arizona sportsbooks

The eight non-tribe Arizona sports betting operators that are aligned with a major pro sports team, league or sports venue:

  • Bally’s: Phoenix Mercury
  • Barstool Sports: Phoenix Raceway
  • BetMGM: Arizona Cardinals
  • Caesars: Arizona Diamondbacks
  • DraftKings: PGA Tour and TPC Scottsdale
  • FanDuel: Phoenix Suns
  • Rush Street Interactive: Arizona Rattlers
  • Sahara Bets: Arizona Coyotes
Photo by PlayInAZ
Jarrett Huff Avatar
Written by
Jarrett Huff

Jarrett Huff is a former sports editor at Northern Star Media from Wonder Lake, Illinois. Friends and family will tell you he’s an NBA history nerd with a diehard passion for the Chicago Bulls, Bears and Cubs.

View all posts by Jarrett Huff