PointsBet Struggling To Obtain Sports Betting License In Arizona

By Jason Guilbault | Aug 31, 2021, 9:42am

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It has been a busy week in Arizona as licenses were announced for operators and their partnering tribes or professional sports teams. Most of the major operators have already been up and running, while PointsBet has hit a snag in the process. With the September 9th launch date set for when those in Arizona can officially place bets, PointsBet Sportsbook is far behind. PointsBet had partnered with Cliff Castle Casino, which had their sports betting license approved, but that changed within the last 24 hours.

Why Did ADG Reverse Sports Betting License

There was an official release by the Arizona Department of Gaming, but PointsBet and Cliff Castle Casino Hotel were left with no real explanation. Their overall response was that it was an administrative error, saying they released it too early.

Questions are rising about the transparency of the licensing process and this aligns with others missing out on licenses that felt they should have been approved. Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is tied with the Yavapai-Apache Nation.

There will be a negative effect on the economy for the tribe, as revenue was set to help with tribal programs. Given the lack of explanation for the reversal, it is possible for a lawsuit to occur, which would add another one to the list going up against Arizona.

What’s Next For PointsBet?

PointsBet Sportsbook was the partner with the Cliff Castle Casino and now are left scrambling to obtain a partnership and license just a week before the official launch date. PointsBet is backed by NBC and is trying to establish itself as a top sportsbook in the industry. Having a hold-up in the large Arizona market won’t help.

There have been 18 licenses established in the state and there are a total of 20, leaving two remaining. That does leave PointsBet a chance to obtain one of those two licenses, but that will take some time. Entering this market late will put them at a disadvantage. While it is unlikely they would punt Arizona altogether, there are limited options for them to partner with now.

PointsBet will be on the front foot over the next few weeks trying to get in during the earlier stages of the NFL season, but this process generally takes some time.

Details Of Arizona Launch

Major sportsbooks like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars have already begun their pre-registration process. September 9th is the official launch date where those in Arizona can officially place wagers. Many are already making accounts to obtain bonuses and get ready for that Thursday Night Football game between the Buccaneers and Cowboys. Those in Arizona would be eligible to wager on that game.

Those looking to play daily fantasy sports can already login and begin to play. On August 28th, daily fantasy sports went live for DraftKings and Arizona. This was a long-awaited wait for the fantasy community looking to play for prizes.

Jason Guilbault

Jason Guilbault is the Brand Content Manager for Lineups.com, powered by Catena Media. He has worked 10+ in the sports betting & iGaming space as a writer and content manager. Jason has also written for DailyFantasyCafe, NBAMockDraft, & FantasyPros. He aims to bring the best sports data & insight to the industry for both novice & advanced users.