In a clear sign that online sports betting is getting closer in the state of Michigan, BetMGM and the Detroit Lions have signed a deal that makes the sportsbook the first official betting partner of the NFL team.
There is plenty included in this deal, which is meant to benefit both entities while also providing fans all kinds of added features and bonuses.
Plenty of Details in the Partnership
This landmark deal has several layers of details to break down. For starters, BetMGM will be able to use its own branding on team digital marketing assets, its broadcasts, plus signage and promotions that take place in the stadium.
It will be made very clear that the partnership exists, and BetMGM is getting some prime real estate in that sense.
The fans will also benefit thanks to the Lions perks reward program and the Lions Bingo, both of which will be sponsored and presented by BetMGM. They are also free-to-play games, giving fans something really engaging and entertaining to look forward to.
It should be noted that another part of the deal between BetMGM and the Detroit Lions is that the retail book of BetMGM that is housed in the MGM Grand Detroit Casino will be sure to offer those same Lion rewards and exclusive perks for fans.
It’s all about generating buzz and excitement, which seems to be a top priority both for the team and the sportsbook.
Detroit Lions president Rod Wood commented on this landmark partnership:
“The Detroit Lions historic relationship with BetMGM has been years in the making and we’re proud to announce details of our official partnership. We’re continuously seeking new ways to entertain and involve our fans which is especially important during such unusual times.”
How Much Longer Until Online Sports Betting Goes Live?
Of course, this leads to the big question of how much longer residents of Michigan are going to have to wait for online sports betting to go live.
It was back in March of this year that in-person sports betting went live after being made legal in late 2019. Also back in March, it was said that online sports betting would likely happen towards the end of this year or early next year.
This new deal has certainly sparked excitement for those following sports betting in the state and there is a real sense that the online option could happen sooner rather than later.
Not the First Major Partnership
While this is certainly a huge deal for the Lions and BetMGM, it’s not the first of its kind in the state. Earlier this year, PointsBet penned its own deal with the Detroit Tigers.
These kinds of deals are becoming more and more popular, not just here in Michigan but in a handful of states that have moved to legalize sports betting.
The most recent announcement was that DraftKings will open a retail book on-site at Wrigley Field, which is the home of the Chicago Cubs.
Rick Rockwell
As a longtime freelance writer, avid sports fan, former athlete, and experienced sports bettor, Rick Rockwell has risen up the ranks at GamblingSites.org to become the self-professed “King of the Blog” in his first year with the site. …