North Carolina Sports Betting

Legal sports betting has, at long last, arrived in North Carolina! Retail NC sportsbooks are already in action - with online sports betting set to launch on March 11th, 2024, and pre-registration bonuses being offered from March 1st, 2024. Here at Oddschecker, we are ready to keep you updated with all the news, updates, and exclusive promotions you could want.

As of January 2024, North Carolina bettors are gearing up for the arrival of legal online sports betting.  What's more, enjoying the thrills of daily fantasy sports (DFS) online is already possible in NC and has been for a while. While specific legislation to regulate and tax DFS operations hasn't actually been passed by the state legislature, it hasn't prohibited these contests either - which means popular sports fantasy games by DFS giants like FanDuel and DraftKings can already be enjoyed within North Carolina. And these popular sites are now getting ready to offer traditional sports betting!

Let's take a closer look into the status of legal sports betting in North Carolina so you can understand what sports betting will - and will not be permitted, the timeline for online sports betting availability… and more. This is your comprehensive guide to all things North Carolina sports betting.

North Carolina Sports Betting Updates

Here are all the steps that have led to the legalization of sports betting in NC.

• December 19, 2023: Fanatics has entered the NC online sports betting scene through a new partnership with the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes.
• December 13, 2023: NC regulators have finalized sports betting regulations in the state, taking the final steps towards the highly anticipated move towards legal online sports betting.
• December 12, 2023: FanDuel joined forces with the PGA in North Carolina in anticipation of the state's forthcoming legalization of online sports betting. Seven other sports organizations in the state are still looking for sportsbook partners.
• December 8, 2023: NC sports betting regulators have approved a second set of sports betting regulations and are reportedly close to finalizing them.
• December 6, 2023: PENN Entertainment, the parent company of ESPN Bet, announced a partnership with Quail Hollow Club and the PGA's Wells Fargo Championship, securing ESPN Bet's forthcoming entrance to the North Carolina sports betting market.
• November 29, 2023: NC sports betting regulators stated that legal online sports betting will not launch before Super Bowl 58. Regulators aim to have potential operators submit applications by December 27.
• November 20, 2023: The ink dried on a deal between The Charlotte Hornets and bet365, making the operator an official sports betting partner. This marks the first partnership between a sports team and a sportsbook in the state.
• March 1st, 2024 - Sportsbooks are now taking pre-registrations from users, which means you can sign up for an account and receive unique bonuses from each sportsbook, before the March 11th, 2024 launch day.
• March 11th, 2024 - North Carolina Sports Betting will officially launch, and users will claim their pre-live bonus and launch day bonus, ready to place their first bets. This will be the first day North Carolina sportsbooks can accept wagers.

2024

We are now in the year when North Carolina will be accepting online bets from residents. As of March 11th, 2024, you will be able to place a bet in the Tar Heel State, with sportsbooks such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, Bet365, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics.

2023

Following long deliberations between the House and Senate, the sports betting bill HB 347 was successfully passed and signed into law by Governor Roy Cooper on June 14, 2023.

2022

In February, SB 688, an online sports betting bill, started its journey through committee hearings. The Senate-backed bill proposed the potential for 10 to 12 online sportsbooks. While it started securing a convincing passage in the Senate, it encountered a lot of opposition regarding its wording and provisions in the House.

Despite debates and delays in the lower chamber, the bill fell short of becoming law, postponing mobile sports wagering for North Carolinians by at least another year.

The same year, the opening of the Catawba Two Kings Casinos sportsbook in September was a huge event. Situated around 40 minutes west of Charlotte along the North Carolina-South Carolina border, this became the third land-based casino in the state.

2021

Legalized sports betting launched at two state casinos, which coincided with a Senate bill that was looking to legalize online sports betting in North Carolina. The bill remained open for consideration when the House reconvened in 2022.

2019

SB 154 successfully made its way through the Legislature, having taken nearly five months from introduction to signature. The bill enjoyed plenty of support with a 43-7 vote in the Senate and a 90-27 vote in the House before reaching Governor Roy Cooper for approval.

Is Sports Betting legal in North Carolina?

Yes, it is! North Carolina has legalized sports betting - both online and in land-based establishments. However, while retail locations are currently operational, online sports betting will now go live on March 11th, 2024.

Until then, betting options are limited to in-person betting. There are two Caesars sportsbooks situated in the western part of the state - both located within tribal casinos — Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort and Harrah's Cherokee Valley River. There's also a third tribal casino, the temporary Catawba Two Kings Casino, which is open in King's Mountain and can be found to the west of Charlotte.

The Sports Betting Legislation

Representative Jason Saine introduced sports betting bill HB 347 in the North Carolina General Assembly on March 13, 2023. After having undergone a number of revisions between the Senate and House for approval, Governor Roy Cooper eventually signed it into law on June 14, 2023. These are the key highlights of the new, improved - and approved North Carolina sports betting industry:

• The legislation allows for up to 12 legal online sportsbooks and eight in-person sportsbooks at professional sports venues within the state. Each license requires a $1 million fee for a five-year period, accompanied by an 18% tax.
• Senators have prohibited operators from deducting promotional credits from sports betting revenue.
• Partnerships with the eight North Carolina sports betting venues offer various providers an advantage in obtaining licenses. These venues include the NFL stadium, NBA and NHL arenas, PGA host courses, and NASCAR circuits.
• Projections by LSR suggest that North Carolina's online sportsbooks could handle $6.8 billion in bets by the second year of operation - and potentially generate around $610.7 million in sports betting revenue for the state.
• To be able to participate in sports betting, North Carolina residents must be 21 years old or older. Additionally, bettors will be allowed to wager on in-state college teams.

Popular Sports to Bet on in NC

North Carolina is best known in the US for its college basketball, with the teams like the University of North Carolina Tar Heels and the Duke University Blue Devils regularly winning national championships. However, there are also three major league sports teams that get plenty of support.

NFL Betting in North Carolina

The NFL is very popular in North Carolina, as the state is home to the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers have been based in Charlotte since 1996, after first launching in South Carolina. Despite being one of the newest teams in the NFL, the Panthers have been successful, making it to the Super Bowl twice. However, the team was beaten by the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVIII and the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50.

Every retail sportsbook in North Carolina will offer betting on the NFL and the Carolina Panthers, with moneylines, totals, and point spreads available for every game. You’ll also find player props on your favorite athletes pre-game and in-play.

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino is the official betting partner of the Carolina Panthers and provides exclusive rewards for bettors in its Caesars Rewards program, like free tickets and stadium trips. 

NBA Betting in North Carolina

The Charlotte Hornets launched in the NBA in 1988 but have had a disrupted history since first taking to the court. The original Charlotte Hornets moved to New Orleans in 2002 after fans started to turn on the franchise’s owner, leaving the NC without an NBA team. However, North Carolina was granted an expansion franchise, the Charlotte Bobcats, in 2004.

The team was bought by one of the greatest basketball players ever, Micahel Jordan, who petitioned the league to get the Hornets’ name back. The Bobcats changed to the Hornets in 2014, with the old Hornets team in New Orleans changing to the Pelicans.

With all those struggles off the court, it is not surprising the Hornets haven’t been particularly successful. However, the team has plenty of talented players like LaMelo Ball and hopes for a brighter future. 

All sportsbooks in NC will provide betting markets for every NBA game, including the regular and postseason. You can also place future bets in the offseason on players to win the MVP award and teams to claim the NBA Championship.

MLB Betting in North Carolina

The MLB is the only big four league not represented in North Carolina, but there are still thousands of NC sports fans interested in baseball. However, there are minor league baseball teams like the High-A Greensboro Grasshoppers and the Triple-A Durham Bulls which attract baseball plenty of support. You may not find betting markets for minor league baseball at NC sportsbooks. 

The three retail sportsbooks in North Carolina all offer a wide range of MLB betting, from season-long future bets to single-game bets like moneylines, spreads, and totals. Sportsbooks also offer alternative betting markets, such as the number of strikeouts and first to x runs. 

NHL Betting in North Carolina

The only team from North Carolina to have won a major league championship are the Carolina Hurricanes in the NHL. The Hurricanes have played in Carolina since 1997 and reached the sport’s summit in 2006, beating the Edmonton Oilers to win the Stanley Cup. The team also has won two conference championships and five division championships.

The Carolina Hurricanes have been a vocal supporter of legal sports betting in NC, declaring an interest in launching a retail sportsbook at its PNC Stadium when sports betting legislation allows this.  

North Carolina sportsbooks provide a wide range of markets on the NHL, with dozens of different bet types available for every game. 

NCAA Betting in North Carolina

College sports are as big, if not bigger, than major league sports in North Carolina. The rivalry between Duke and the Tar Heels in basketball is legendary, and some of the best players in NBA history have started at these colleges. Big names include Michael Jordan, Grant Hill, and Tim Duncan.

However, it is not just about college basketball, as college football, baseball, and hockey also draw plenty of attention. All of these college events are available for betting at NC retail sportsbooks. There are also no restrictions on betting on in-state teams or placing player props like in other states. If online sports betting is legalized, you may get fewer betting options as lawmakers put in restrictions to protect young athletes.

North Carolina Sports Betting Sites

As mentioned above, the updated betting legislation allowed for a maximum of 11 online sportsbooks in North Carolina. While the specific sports betting providers operating in the state are not yet fully confirmed, here are the most probable contenders expected to offer some seriously impressive sports betting promotions once online sports betting becomes available in North Carolina:

FanDuel Sportsbook North Carolina

FanDuel is set to be among the first five sports betting platforms to launch in North Carolina. Renowned across the country for its user-friendly interface, you can expect plenty of promos and bonuses for both new and existing users… alongside some of the most competitive odds in the industry.

While its same-game parlay feature is definitely a firm favorite, FanDuel is perfect for all types of punters. It may not have the flashiest platform - and there may occasionally be a few navigation issues, but this is a reliable and industry-leading choice with plenty of betting markets.

What's more, new users in North Carolina can take advantage of FanDuel's latest offer - claiming up to $300 in pre-launch bonuses upon signing up for a new account.

• App Store Rating: 4.8 on App Store; 4.7 on Google Play
• Best features:
• User-friendly interface
• Competitive odds
• Excellent same-game parlays
• Welcome Offer: Early sign-up special allows NC players to claim up to $300 in bonus bets without requiring a promo code.

DraftKings Sportsbook North Carolina

Next up is DraftKings, a hugely popular choice across the US - and it looks as though it will be a hit in North Carolina, too. The DraftKings app is super smooth, with plenty of exceptional features and an impressive design.

Renowned for its live betting options and betting pools, you'll be able to take part in tournament-style events with others. Moreover, the platform offers lots of betting choices and a very tasty sign-up promotion. While additional bonuses for existing customers would certainly be great, DraftKings is one of the top sports betting sites in the US.

As a new sports bettor in North Carolina, you'll also be able to capitalize on DraftKings' pre-launch offer of up to $200 in bonus bets upon signing up.

• App Store Rating: 4.8 on the App Store; 4.6 on Google Play
• Best features:
• Attractive and innovative app
• Excellent live betting
• Welcome Offer: Upon signing up, claim $200 in bonus bets when DraftKings launches; no promo code is required.

ESPN Bet North Carolina

ESPN BET Sportsbook may be one of the newer sites out there, but it is swiftly emerging as a major player in the US sports betting landscape… and is poised to include North Carolina among its offerings. Thanks to its affiliation with sports media powerhouse ESPN, this sportsbook boasts a massive array of sports markets - as well as an intuitive user interface and plenty of incredible betting features.

The platform's website and mobile app ensure a seamless betting experience. ESPN BET has also introduced innovative tools such as Parlay+, which allows you to create your own parlay bets - along with its First Take Matchup feature, where you get to create your own unique bets based on key game matchups.

As an NC new user, you'll be able to benefit from a generous sign-up bonus of up to $250 in bonus bets when you enter a qualifying promo code. The platform also offers various other bonus bets and deposit match offers, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to take a step into the realm of sports betting.

• App Store Rating: 4.9 on the App Store; 4.5 on Google Play
• Best features:
• Parlay+ feature
• First Take Matchup
• Welcome Offer: Bet any amount and receive $250 in bonus bets.

Fanatics North Carolina

Next up is Fanatics Sportsbook, a dynamic and very cool sports betting platform that has lots of potential. This site boasts all sorts of sports betting options - and offers an exceptional user experience, perfect for all betting preferences.

The website and app are all about user-friendliness, so you can expect easy navigation and a seamless betting process. Moreover, Fanatics Sportsbook entices new users with lots of promotions and bonuses for both new and existing users. Ultimately, its user-oriented approach and simplicity are starting to attract a big following in the US betting sphere.

Recognized for some seriously competitive odds and lots of betting markets, Fanatics Sportsbook is great for experienced bettors and newcomers alike. Its reliability and straightforward nature make it an ideal choice for those seeking a well-rounded yet simplistic sports betting experience.

• App Store Rating: 4.7 on the App Store; 3.3 on Google Play
• Best Features:
• User-friendly website and app design
• Highly competitive odds
• Welcome Offer: Receive up to $200 in bonus bets by placing $10 bets for five consecutive days.

Caesars North Carolina

Caesars North Carolina likes to look after its punter - which is evident through the generous Caesars North Carolina promo code, which can reward you with a remarkable welcome bonus. It also offers excellent odds boosts and a rewards program granting points for every bet you make. These points can be used not just on the sportsbook but can be redeemed at any Caesars location. The platform also offers plenty of giveaways and contests accessible to all.

Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina feels premium. Its generous welcome bonus, user-friendly interface, seamless navigation on the website and app, and an impressive array of sports markets with numerous odds mean you can enjoy a well-rounded and great value experience.

From NFL to Tar Heels bets, there's something for everyone. With legal sports betting arriving in NC, you might want to consider joining Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina—an impressive choice that comes highly recommended.

• App Store Rating: 4.6 on the App Store; 4.2 on Google Play
• Best features:
• Odds boosts
• Rewards Program
• Welcome Offer: Cover Your First Bet up to $1000

Bordering States

North Carolina has a border with four states, and two of these jurisdictions have legalized online sports betting. If you want to place online sports bets, you just need to cross the border and sign up with a licensed sportsbook. 

Tennessee

Sports betting was legalized in Tennessee on May 24, 2019, but bettors had to wait 18 long months until sportsbooks launched. On November 1, 2020, online sports betting went live, and there are currently 11 licensed online sportsbooks like FanDuel, DraftKings, and SuperBook. Tennessee is one of the few states with a mobile exclusive sports betting market, with all betting sites overseen by the Tennessee Sports Wagering Advisory Council. 

Virginia

Lawmakers in Virginia legalized sports betting in April 2020, with sports betting going live in January 2021. Several online sportsbooks are available, including brands like SI Sportsbook and Unibet. While retail sports betting is legal, it can only launch at land-based casinos. There are currently no casinos in VA, although many are under construction. 

Georgia

There is no legal sports betting in Georgia, but there were close failed attempts to pass legislation in 2021 and 2022. Sports betting may launch in GA in the future. 

South Carolina

Sports betting is not legal in South Carolina, and this seems unlikely to change. High-profile politicians like Governor Henry McMaster have publicly voiced their disapproval of sports betting. 

North Carolina Sporting Events

Carolina-Duke Basketball

The basketball rivalry between the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Duke Blue Devils is often voted as one of the most intense in all US sports. The two teams are separated by less than ten miles over  Highway 15-501, known as Tobacco Road. Both teams are consistent contenders for national championships, with the Tar Heels winning six NCAA Tournaments and Duke winning five. The Tar Heels lead the all-time series. 

Coca Cola 600

The Coca Cola 600 is NASCAR’s longest-distance event at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. This 600-mile event is held annually on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, and up to 100,000 fans descend on Concord, North Carolina, to watch this great racing spectacle. The race has run every year since 1960, and winners include all-time NASCAR greats such as Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt, and Jeff Gordon. 

Darrell Waltrip has the most wins of any driver after finishing the race on top five times. Two of these wins came for Hendrick Motorsports in 1988 and 1989. Hendrick Motorsports have claimed more wins than any other team in these races, with 12 victories.

Duke’s Mayo Bowl

The Duke’s Mayo Bowl is a college football game that takes place every year at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Previously known as the Belk Bowl, this match-up features one team from the ACC and one from the Big Ten Conference or the SEC. 

The North Carolina Tar Heels have appeared the most times in this bowl game but have amassed a poor 1-4 record. The team with the most wins is the University of Virginia Cavaliers, with three victories in three appearances. Previous MVPs of the game include NFL standouts like Dak Prescott and Nick Chubb.

Can you bet on sports in North Carolina?

Yes, you can place sports bets at retail locations in North Carolina. Mobile and online sports betting is anticipated to launch at the start of 2024.

Currently, North Carolina sports lovers can place their bets at three tribal casinos with legal retail sportsbooks:

• Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort in Cherokee, NC
• Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino in Murphy, NC
• Catawba Two Kings Casino in Kings Mountain, NC

Currently, DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Bet365, Fanatics, Caesars, ESPN Bet, and UnderDog will all be going live in the Tar Heel State, with additional online sportsbooks to potentially follow.

As per the latest North Carolina state regulations, each sportsbook looking to enter the NC market will have to collaborate with a professional sports team, auto racing track, golf course, NASCAR - or the PGA Tour, all of which must be located in the state and host races or tournaments in NC.

Sportsbooks Partnered with North Carolina Sports Teams

To date, here are the sportsbooks that have announced partnerships with sports teams, leagues, or race courses.

• Bet365: Charlotte Hornets
• ESPN BET: Quail Hollow Club (Charlotte)
• Caesars: Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
• FanDuel: PGA Tour
• Fanatics: Carolina Hurricanes
• DraftKings: NASCAR
• TBD: Carolina Panthers
• TBD: NC Courage
• TBD: Charlotte FC
• TBD: Sedgefield Country Club (Greensboro)
• TBD: North Wilkesboro Speedway
• BetMGM: Charlotte Motor Speedway

We'll update this list with new partnerships in North Carolina.

When North Carolina sports betting sites and apps launch in 2024, there will be 11+ NC sportsbooks available. Here are some top legal sports betting operators expected:

• ESPN BET 
• BetMGM 
• Caesars
• FanDuel 
• DraftKings
• Bet365
• Fanatics

North Carolina Sports Betting Legislation

The journey towards legalizing sports betting in North Carolina was certainly not an easy one - and there were a number of milestones along the way:

• August 31, 2005: North Carolina introduced the state lottery, marking the first step on the road towards legal sports gambling.
• August 13, 2012: North Carolina expanded its offerings beyond slots and electronic poker at tribal casinos. Despite hopes for sports betting legalization, not much progress had been made.
• May 14, 2018: The US Supreme Court's overruled PASPA - Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, which paved the way for the potential legalization of sports gambling in states, including online and mobile wagering, alongside daily fantasy sports.
• July 26, 2019: Retail sportsbooks finally gained legalization through SB 154 in the NC Senate and House Committee. Nevertheless, the legalization of online sports betting and mobile wagering apps was still in progress.
• March 18, 2021: Harrah's two casinos in North Carolina launched two retail sports betting locations, which made in-person sports betting possible. However, mobile sports betting and online wagering remain unauthorized.
• June 22, 2022: SB 688, The 2022 NC sports betting bill, was narrowly defeated by a single vote of 51-50 on the North Carolina House floor, halting the availability of online or mobile sports betting.
• September 7, 2022: The Catawba Two Kings Casino in Kings Mountain introduced a legal sportsbook, becoming the third legal North Carolina sportsbook.
• March 13 2023: Representative Jason Saine proposes a new bill for NC sports betting, aiming to legalize online sportsbooks and mobile apps upon passage.
• March 30 2023: The North Carolina House voted in favor of legalizing sports betting through HB 347. The bill then advanced to the Senate.
• May 24 2023: The Committee on Commerce and Insurance endorsed an amended version of the mobile and online sports betting bill HB 347. Despite the latest vote, the bill was still awaiting consideration by the Finance and Rules Committees before it could reach the Senate floor.
• May 26 2023: Following the recent bill amendments, reports indicated that the North Carolina Senate Finance Committee would be deliberating on sports betting legislation HB 347 to legalize sports betting on May 30. The Rules Committee was scheduled to review the bill thereafter.
• May 30 2023: The revised version of HB 347, which allowed legal online sports betting and mobile apps, got approval from the North Carolina Senate Finance and Rules committees.
• May 31 2023: HB 347 secured its second reading in the state Senate. Another reading and vote would be necessary before it could progress to the North Carolina House for concurrence.
• June 7 2023: After weeks of deliberation and votes on the proposed amendments, both the Senate and House provided the final approval for HB 347
• June 14 2023: Governor Roy Cooper signed the online sports betting bill HB 347 at Charlotte's Spectrum Center, which fully established sports betting legality in North Carolina. Although an official launch date was still pending, the NC Education Lottery was preparing regulations.
• March 1 2024: Pre-Registrations for all North Carolina Sportsbooks are now open, giving users the chance to sign up for a sportsbook account before online betting goes live on March 11th. This will involve claiming a bonus. No bets will be able to be placed until March 11th.
• March 11 2024: North Carolina Sports Betting will go live, and online wagers will be accepted.

Regulatory Bodies

In terms of regulations, The North Carolina Lottery Commission is responsible for overseeing the regulation of mobile and online sportsbooks, in addition to managing the North Carolina Education Lottery. A newly formed committee, approved by the Lottery Commission, will assist in the implementation of mobile sports betting.

With land-based sports betting, The Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission regulates all three operational sportsbooks, all situated within tribal casinos.

North Carolina Sports Betting Licences

North Carolina now offers a total of 11 legal online sports betting licenses. Sportsbooks will need to establish partnerships with professional teams, golf courses, or motor raceways. Most licenses will likely be allocated to Tar Heel State pro sports teams, collaborating with operators to launch in-person, mobile, or online sportsbooks.

NC Sports Betting Revenue

In terms of revenue, estimating the North Carolina sports betting market's revenue following legalization isn't straightforward. However, it may look similar to neighboring states such as Tennessee ($7.3 billion handle, $120 million tax revenue) and Virginia ($8.1 billion handle, $72 million tax revenue). Some estimations even suggest NC sports betting could generate as much as $600 million in gross gaming revenue once fully established.

Sports to bet on in North Carolina

So, now it is finally being legalized, what can you actually bet on? Well, the catalog of sports is very much in line with other jurisdictions in the US.

Exhibitions, pre-season, regular season, all-star games, all-star contests, and postseason betting will be permitted according to the proposed rules. The leagues and events will include all genders and all qualifying rounds, according to the rules.

Operators will need to receive approval from the commission for any new leagues, events, or wagers. But they can apply to have a new event or wager added through the state's sports betting website.

These are the current leagues or events sanctioned by the listed governing body.

• Australian Rules Football:

Australian Football League

• Badminton:

Badminton World Federation

• Baseball: 

Major League Baseball, NCAA, World Baseball Classic, Minor League Baseball (Class AAA), Japan Nippon Professional Baseball, Chinese Professional Baseball League, KBO League, Athletes Unlimited Softball, Northwoods League, Texas Collegiate League, Mexican Baseball League, Baseball Series de Caribe

• Basketball: 

National Basketball Association, Women's National Basketball Association, NCAA, Euro League/Euro Cup, FIBA events, The Basketball Tournament, Big3

• Biathlon: 

International Biathlon Union-sanctioned events

• Bowling:

Professional Bowlers Association

• Bowls: 

Professional Bowls Association, World Bowls

• Boxing: 

International Boxing Union, Irish Athletic Boxing Association, Women's International Boxing Association, World Boxing Federation, World Boxing Union, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship

• Cricket: 

International Cricket Council

• Cycling: 

Union Cycliste International

• Darts: 

British Darts Organisation, MODUS, Professional Darts Corporation, World Dart Federation

• Disc: 

American Ultimate Disc League

• Drafts: 

Wagers may be accepted on approved player drafts under certain conditions.

• Floorball: 

International Floorball Federation

• Football: 

National Football League, Canadian Football League, USFL, Indoor Football League, NCAA, College Senior Bowl, XFL

• Futsal: 

Federation Internationale de Football Association

• Golf: 

International Federation of PGA Tours or its members, International events, Masters, PGA Championship, The Open Championship, The U.S. Open, The Match Series

• Handball: 

International Handball Federation, European Handball Federation

• Hockey (field): 

International Hockey Federation

• Hockey (ice): 

American Hockey League, National Hockey League, International Ice Hockey Federation, NCAA

• Jai-Alai: 

World Jai-Alai League

• Lacrosse: 

National Lacrosse League, Premiere Lacrosse League, World Lacrosse, NCAA

• MMA: 

UFC, Road to UFC, Dana White's Contender Series, Bellator, ONE Championship, PFL, PFL Challenger Series, ABCCS members or other US state associations

• Motorsports: 

Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), Indycar, NASCAR Xfinity Series, NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, NASCAR Cup Series, United States Auto Club (USAC), National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Superstar Racing Experience (SRX)

• Netball: 

Netball New Zealand, Netball Australia

• Olympics: 

Summer Olympic Games (including trials), Winter Olympic Games (including trials)

• Pesapallo:

Finnish Pesapallo Association

• Pool: 

World Pool-Billiard Association

• Rodeo: 

Professional Bull Riders, Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association

• Rowing: 

University Boat Race

• Rugby League: 

International Rugby League

• Rugby Union: 

World Rugby, SANZAAR

• Sailing: 

America's Cup, Prada Cup Challenger Selection Series

• Snooker: 

International World Games Association (IWGA), World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA), World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA), World Snooker

• Soccer: 

International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), International Champions Cup, NCAA

• Soccer (beach): 

Beach Soccer World Cup, Beach Soccer Worldwide Intercontinental Cup, Euro Beach Soccer League

• Special events: 

Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, Major League Eating

• Softball: 

Athletes Unlimited Softball, NCAA

• Summer athletics: 

Commonwealth Games, World Athletics World Championships, World Athletics Tour Events (Indoor/Outdoor), World Athletics Continental Tour Events, European Athletics Association Championships, X-Games

• Swimming: 

Fédération internationale de natation (FINA) World Championships

• Table tennis: 

International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), TT Elite Series Poland, TT Star Pro Series, TT Trophy Hungary, Challenger Series Betriebs GmbH.

• Tennis: 

Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Challenger Tour, International Tennis Federation (ITF) Grand Slam events, International Tennis Federation (ITF), Women's Tennis Association (WTA), United States Tennis Association (USTA), World Team Tennis, NCAA

• Volleyball: 

International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), NCAA

• Volleyball (beach): 

Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP), Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) leagues and events organized by FIVB member federations, NCAA

• Waterpolo: 

FINA World Championships, FINA World Cup, FINA World League, Ligue Européenne de Natation (LEN) European Championships, LEN Champions League, Adriatic League, Italian Serie A1

• Winter athletics: 

Fédération Internationale de Ski (FIS, International Ski Federation), International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF), International Luge Federation (FIL), International Skating Union (ISU), International Skating Union (ISU), Fédération Internationale de Ski (FIS, International Ski Federation), X-Games.

What you can't bet on in North Carolina

However, there will also be restrictions in place.

• Political Wagers: Currently, betting on political occurrences, like the upcoming US presidential election, won't be permitted.
• Entertainment Award Shows: It's not yet fully clear whether NC bettors will be able to place bets on entertainment award ceremonies such as the Oscars, Grammys, and Emmys.
• Esports: Currently, eSports betting has not yet been specifically permitted.
• Other prohibited wagers: In addition, bets are not allowed on youth sports, which include teams or individuals competing on behalf of an elementary, middle, or secondary school. Bets are also not allowed on the occurrence of injuries and penalties, the outcome of disciplinary proceedings against a participant in a sporting event, or the outcome of replay reviews.

Wager Options at Legal NC Sports Betting Sites

Here are some of the possible sports betting wagers that will be available at authorized North Carolina sportsbooks.

• Moneyline: The money line bet is the simplest form of sports bet. You just need to choose who you think will be the winner and place your bet on that outcome.
• Parlays: Favoured by many bettors, these can offer some seriously big payouts. Combine multiple bets, and as each succeeds, your chance of winning - and the amount you can win gets bigger. However, if even one part of the bet fails, you will lose your bet.
• Totals: Also known as over/under, these bets revolve around total points, runs, or goals. They typically focus on the combined scores of both participating teams. You need to bet on whether you think the total will be over or under a number set by the bookmaker.
• Point Spreads: To level the playing field if there's a heavy favorite, sportsbooks offer point spreads. The question is whether the favorite will win by a margin greater than that number to "cover the spread."
• Futures: Futures betting involves predicting distant outcomes, like who will win the NBA Finals or which team will clinch victory in the March Madness NCAA Tournament.
• Prop Bets: Within a game, prop bets will let you bet on specific players or team performances. How will a player perform? What will be the team's statistics? Prop bets are about betting on in-game events rather than the outcome of games.
• Live Betting: Lots of bettors like to wager on events while they are in play. Live betting will allow you to bet on the action as it unfolds.

Quick Facts about North Carolina Sports Betting

• Who qualifies to place sports bets in North Carolina: Currently, you can bet on sports at one of the three land-based locations. However, as of January 2024, online betting will become available. To take part in sports betting in NC, individuals will need to be aged 21 or above and located within state borders.
• Age Requirement: North Carolina sportsbooks will be available to bettors aged 21 and over.
• Mobile Betting: As of January, the law will permit up to 11 sportsbooks to provide mobile betting. Current operators expected to launch in the state include BetMGM, Caesars, FabDuel, DraftKings, ESPN BET, Bet365, Fanatics, and the possibility of Tipico.
• Remote Registration: North Carolina will allow remote registration, which means that you'll be able to create accounts with licensed sportsbooks and claim the generous sign-up bonuses from anywhere within the state's boundaries.
• Within State Borders: All account creation and wagering activities must occur within North Carolina state borders. Bookmakers will be required to use geolocation technology to authenticate all online sports betting transactions.
• Retail Sportsbooks: There are currently three land-based establishments that offer sports betting.
• Taxation on Winnings: Specific tax rates for sports bettors haven't yet been finalized. However, the anticipated gambling tax rate for betting operators in North Carolina stands at 18%, which is in line with similar tax rates applied to legal sportsbooks. Distinct from this is the income tax, which North Carolina sports bettors winning specific sums are obliged to pay according to the law.
• Pre-Registration Period: Sportsbooks have been given the green light to run a pre-registration period from March 1st to March 11th, offering users the chance to claim epic bonuses before launch day. DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, Bet365, and Fanatics are all taking part in this initiative.

North Carolina Teams To Bet on

Once online sports betting is introduced, bettors in North Carolina will be able to put money on their favorite local professional teams.

For those who like college sports betting, North Carolina basketball fans can expect some seriously exciting prospects, including betting options on the North Carolina State Wolfpack. Moreover, teams such as the Wake Forest Demon Deacons based in Winston-Salem will certainly attract some betting interest.

Most sportsbooks will also offer MLS - soccer betting, which is great news for fans of Charlotte FC, who became part of the Major League Soccer clubs in 2019 and enjoyed their inaugural season in 2022.

Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers, based in Charlotte, are the state's professional American football team - and compete in the National Football League (NFL). Established in 1995, they've had some serious successes, including multiple playoff appearances and even a Super Bowl appearance in the 2003 season. 

Recognized for their buzzing fan base and passionate support, the team plays its home games at the Bank of America Stadium. In their time, they have seen some of the sport's most iconic players, including quarterback Cam Newton and linebacker Luke Kuechly, who have both contributed to the team's legacy. With a dedicated following and consistently excellent performances, the Panthers are always a team capable of success in the NFL.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Carolina Hurricanes, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a professional ice hockey team that competes in the National Hockey League (NHL). Established way back in 1997, they've had their fair share of successes - including winning the Stanley Cup in the 2005-2006 season. 

The Hurricanes have a very loyal fan base who regularly flock to see their home games at the PNC Arena. This is a team famed for its passionate play and vibrant team spirit - and for having had some big names on the team like Rod Brind'Amour and Eric Staal. Despite facing challenges, they have always had a competitive edge in the NHL and will no doubt be on the hunt for even more achievements as they aim to solidify their position as a serious force in professional ice hockey.

Charlotte Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is the state's big-name professional basketball team that competes in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The team was originally established in 1988 but was then later re-established in 2004, and since then, it has built up a dedicated fan base.

Famous for its eye-catching teal and purple colors, the team has seen some incredible players like Larry Johnson and Alonzo Mourning in their earlier years. More recently, the Hornets have boasted talents, including LaMelo Ball and Gordon Hayward. They play home games at the Spectrum Center, where they thrill their audiences with their dynamic style of play. Despite challenges, the Hornets are always in the pursuit of success - and are always looking to carve out their place as a competitive force in the NBA.

UNC Tar Heels

The University of North Carolina Tar Heels, affectionately known by its fans as the UNC Tar Heels, is a popular collegiate sports team that represents the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  

They have become famous for their accomplishments in a number of sports - notably basketball, where they have a very impressive history. Their men's basketball program, led by legendary coach Dean Smith and later Roy Williams, has claimed many NCAA championships… Hence, UNC's chances appear consistently among the favorites to win the March Madness tournaments year after year.

Additionally, the Tar Heels do pretty well in other sports, including football and women's basketball. With its impressive tradition, fervent supporters, and dedication to sheer athletic excellence, the UNC Tar Heels is a real institution in collegiate sports.

Duke Blue Devils

The Duke Blue Devils, which represent Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, have a very prestigious collegiate athletic program. Famed for their basketball prowess, the men's basketball team, led by esteemed coach Mike Krzyzewski ("Coach K"), has enjoyed an illustrious legacy. The Blue Devils have won numerous NCAA championships and produced several basketball legends, including Grant Hill and Zion Williamson.

Beyond basketball, Duke excels in various other sports. They have a dedicated fan base - the "Cameron Crazies," who can be trusted to create a party atmosphere during their games at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Duke Blue Devils are considered to be a real powerhouse in collegiate sports and are admired throughout the sporting world.

Top Sports Betting Apps in North Carolina

Best Overall Sportsbook In North Carolina - BetMGM

BetMGM in North Carolina will certainly be a top choice for an incredible betting adventure in the Tar Heel State, offering an ever-expanding selection of sports to bet on - as well as generous odds and all sorts of promotions. Newcomers can enjoy some serious rewards from BetMGM NC's attractive offer for new customers - which currently grants a 20% deposit match up to $1,200 for users in other states!

The mobile app offers players who like to bet on the go an intuitive design so they can find their way around seamlessly, offering a fantastic overall user experience. BetMGM's welcome offer also competes strongly among other sportsbooks so that you can get off to a great start.

The platform's promotions and bonuses for existing users bring an extra layer of excitement - and suit all different types of bettors. So, if you're looking for the perfect betting app to begin your journey, BetMGM North Carolina could be a great option.

• North Carolina Partner: Charlotte Motor Speedway
• Payout Time: 1-5 days
• Most Notable Features: Early withdrawal option, Edit Bet feature, Loyalty rewards scheme, live betting
• App Store Rating: 9.1/10 Stars

Best North Carolina Sportsbook for Promos - Caesars Sportsbook

Many sports fans already hail Caesar Sportsbook as the leading sports betting app in the United States, having made its name for its big promotions for both new and existing customers. Its impressive assortment of deposit and withdrawal choices also helps to distinguish it from competitors… but it's the incredible Caesars Rewards program that truly stands out.

Already excelling with an exceptional mobile app and user-friendly mobile site across its active states, Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina is anticipated to offer a similarly seamless experience for Tar Heel State players on the move.

Upon its official launch in North Carolina, Caesars Sportsbook NC is poised to become one of the state's favored mobile wagering choices.

• North Carolina Partner: Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
• Payout Time: 1+ day
• Most Notable Features NFL wagers & competitions, Fast bets & enhanced and boosted odds
• App Store Rating 8.9/10 Stars

Most Popular Sportsbook in North Carolina - FanDuel

FanDuel Sportsbook North Carolina looks set to distinguish itself in the market thanks to its broad spectrum of offerings - including pre-match, live betting, and future betting options. What is particularly noteworthy is its incredible parlay betting section, especially for Same Game Parlays, which is a trend that has gained some serious momentum recently.

Furthermore, FanDuel Sportsbook North Carolina goes that extra mile for its customers - by offering some of the industry's most generous offers for existing punters. These promos stand out not only for their generosity but also because they are straightforward and easy to redeem, so you can enjoy a great overall user experience.

Currently, those new to FanDuel in other states can take advantage of the generous welcome bonus, which offers first-time FanDuel bettors who place a $5 bet on any moneyline market with the potential to earn up to $150 in bonus bets. We would expect NC to enjoy a similar offer when it launches, having secured official licensing in the state thanks to its recent partnership agreement with the PGA Tour.

• North Carolina Partner: PGA Tour
• Payout Speed: 1-2 days
• Notable Features: Early withdrawals, Parlay Hub, User-friendly referral promotions, Live betting
• App Store Rating: 9.5/10 Stars

Best North Carolina Sportsbook for NFL Betting - DraftKings

DraftKings is looking as though it will be the go-to betting app in North Carolina upon its launch. The mobile platform by DraftKings promises a very impressive experience, thanks to its intuitive design, a wide range of betting choices, and a decent variety of secure transactions. For those who enjoy NFL betting, this app is sure to be one of the top sportsbooks for football betting! With access to live statistics and updates, you'll be able to make even more informed decisions if you try out live betting markets.

You can also enjoy an extensive selection of player prop betting options - - which is one of DraftKings North Carolina is poised to become a favored choice, particularly among NFL bettors.

• North Carolina Partner: NASCAR
• Payout Speed: 1-5 days
• Notable Features: Pool & Pick6 Contests, Wide-ranging betting markets, Matchup-based statistics, Daily Fantasy Sports
• App Store Rating: 9.4/10 Stars

Best North Carolina Sportsbook for NBA Betting - Bet365

Bet365 Sportsbook North Carolina arrives in the state from one of the globe's leading online operators - and we're expecting it to be popular with the Tar Heel State bettors.

The site stands out for its incredible selection of international sports - beating all of its competitors in the diversity on offer. New users in other states have access to a few appealing customer offers: Bet £5 get £150 in bonus bets, or a First Bet Safety Net covering up to £1,000. We believe that Bet365 NC will offer something similar.

The platform offers plenty of bonuses for new and regular customers, with plenty of bonus bets, early payout offers, and parlay betting offers across various sports. Though the brand might not be available in as many states as other notable sports betting NC names, its reputation as an excellent online sports betting site is undeniable.

Bet365 will be one of the highest-quality options upon its entry into the Tar Heel State - and. partnered with the NBA's Charlotte Hornets, it will no doubt offer competitive odds compared to other sportsbooks - making it one of the top sports betting sites and apps for NBA betting.

• North Carolina Partner: Charlotte Hornets
• Payout Speed: 1-5 days
• Notable Features: Live betting & streaming, Early payouts, Personalized bet notifications, Bet editing
• App Store Rating: 9.4/10 Stars

Best North Carolina Sportsbook for Same Game Parlays - Fanatics

The Fanatics Sportsbook North Carolina mobile app, despite being relatively new in the online sports betting world, has already earned a solid reputation. Fanatics executives believe that its well-established brand authority as the official merchandise provider for all major sports leagues will carry over into the sports betting NC sphere, so its name will be everywhere.

Their recent offer for new customers in other states involves betting £10+ Over 5 Days and earning up to £200 in Bonus Bets - and North Carolina can likely expect a similar offer when it launches in 2024.

Users of the Fanatics Sportsbook NC mobile app will be able to enjoy an array of betting options, covering totals, futures, and player props - and some excellent same-game parlays.

The app's well-designed interface makes it easy to navigate - and create your own customized parlays that are perfectly tailored to your betting individual preferences. 

Moreover, Fanatics Sportsbook North Carolina users will have the unique chance to build up a pot of FanCash while placing bets, which you can then use to purchase new apparel on the Fanatics website or use directly within the app as bonus bets.

Fanatics Sportsbook NC has officially set its sights on the state, having signed a partnership with the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes on December 15, 2023.

• North Carolina Partner: Carolina Panthers
• Payout Speed: 1 - 5 days
• Notable Features: Intuitive website and app layout, competitive odds, same game parlays, live betting offered
• App store ratings: 8 out of 10

North Carolina Sportsbook With Best Odds - ESPN Bet

ESPN Bet is looking as though it will be North Carolina's sportsbook offering the most generous odds boosts. Having made a name for itself thanks to its exceptional odds enhancement offers, ESPN Bet definitely stands out from the competition in the Tar Heel State for this feature. You can expect a variety of boosted odds across all sorts of sports.

The availability of these boosted odds will be a huge benefit as you place those bets - presenting you with even more appealing betting prospects and even bigger potential returns. It comes as little surprise then that ESPN Bet will likely cement its position as a go-to choice for North Carolina bettors seeking boosted betting options if and when it launches in the state.

• North Carolina Partner: TBC
• Payout Speed: 1-3 days
• Notable Features: Quick bets & enhanced odds, State-specific parlays, earn bonuses with Play+ Card
• App Store Rating: 9.4/10 Stars

NC Lottery

The North Carolina Lottery was one of the first legally permitted forms of gambling in the state, having launched in 2005. Players can enjoy a whole host of different options and games - including the nationwide Powerball and Mega Millions alongside more local daily gaming options.

The North Carolina Education Lottery is responsible for overseeing the state's lottery activities, which was originally established as a way to raise money for education programs. To this day, money from the lottery supports numerous educational needs - including scholarships, grants, school construction, and pre-kindergarten programs. With all sorts of draw-based games like Powerball, Mega Millions, Carolina Cash 5, and Pick 3 and Pick 4, among others, there are plenty of ways for players to win substantial cash prizes.

Moreover, the NC Lottery has a strong focus on responsible gaming and promotes numerous initiatives to ensure players always play responsibly. They offer tools for self-exclusion and responsible play to maintain a healthy gaming environment. Thanks to its focus on social responsibility, the lottery's impact extends across the state, providing numerous resources for the educational sector while offering lots of entertainment and the chance for players to win big prizes.

North Carolina Casinos

If you like a spin on the slot machine - or enjoy classic table games such as roulette and blackjack, the Tar Heel State offers three casino gaming options. These are the three physical North Carolina casinos that also offer retail sports betting.

Aside from an abundance of social casinos, however, online casinos are currently not legal - and the likelihood of online casinos becoming legal in North Carolina in the near future seems remote. That being said, the introduction of legal online sports betting in North Carolina could possibly lay the groundwork for the potential approval of NC online casinos in the next few years.

These are the three legal land-based casinos currently available to NC players:

Harrah's Cherokee Resort

Located in Cherokee, North Carolina, the Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort is the biggest gaming destination in the state. Offering a blend of entertainment and gaming excitement, this resort boasts a huge gaming floor featuring more than 3100 slot machines as well as table games and even poker options… enough to cover all preferences.

Beyond the gaming experience, you can enjoy a variety of dining choices if you get hungry, from the more casual eateries to fine dining experiences. The resort also provides accommodation options, so you can enjoy a comfortable stay if you want to make it a casino getaway. Additionally, you can even enjoy live entertainment, concerts, and all sorts of events that are scheduled regularly at the venue.

Conveniently located at 777 Casino Drive, Cherokee, NC 28710, Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort offers a thrilling, vibrant gaming atmosphere for anyone looking for a fun night out at the casino.

Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel

Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel, situated at 777 Casino Parkway in Murphy, NC 28906, is another top gaming destination in North Carolina. This casino and hotel complex offers an excellent assortment of games, featuring more than 1,000 slot machines, table games, and poker.

Alongside its gaming offerings, there are various dining options to suit all budgets and cater to all different culinary tastes. There is also hotel accommodation, which offers those worn out from their casino exploits a comfortable and convenient stay for visitors.

With its excellent location and excellent variety of entertainment options - including live events and shows on top of its casino, Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel is a perfect blend of gaming excitement and leisurely fun.

Catawba Two Kings Casino

Last - and the most recently established casino is the Catawba Indian Nation from South Carolina, which is currently only temporary but has intentions to establish a land-based casino in North Carolina. In 2021, they opened the temporary Catawba Two Kings Casino, offering more than 500 slot machines and table games. However, the Catawba Nation is looking to obtain a permanent gaming license for a larger casino - and a more permanent stay… although it is facing strong resistance from the Cherokee.