# ESPN Bet States: A Comprehensive Guide to Legal Sports Betting in the U.S.

Introduction

The sports betting landscape in the United States has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Since the Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018, a growing number of states have legalized sports betting. As of July 2023, 36 states and the District of Columbia offer some form of legal sports betting.

ESPN has been at the forefront of covering the burgeoning sports betting industry, providing in-depth analysis and insights for sports fans and bettors alike. This comprehensive guide will explore the current state of ESPN bet states, including:

• Legalization status and timelines
• Types of sports betting available
• Major sportsbooks operating in each state
• Notable legal cases
• Best practices for responsible gambling

Legalization Status of ESPN Bet States

As of July 2023, 36 states and the District of Columbia have legalized sports betting in some form:

Types of Sports Betting Available in ESPN Bet States

The types of sports betting available vary by state. However, some of the most common options include:

• Spread Betting: Betting on the margin of victory in a game.
• Moneyline Betting: Betting on the winner of a game.
• Over/Under Betting: Betting on the total number of points scored in a game.
• Parlay Betting: Combining multiple bets into a single wager.
• Prop Betting: Betting on specific events or outcomes within a game.

Major Sportsbooks Operating in ESPN Bet States

Several major sportsbooks are operating in ESPN bet states, including:

• DraftKings
• FanDuel
• BetMGM
• Caesars Sportsbook
• PointsBet
• BetRivers
• WynnBET
• Unibet

Each sportsbook offers a unique range of betting options, promotions, and rewards programs. It's important to compare different sportsbooks to find the one that best meets your needs.

Notable Legal Cases Involving Sports Betting

Several notable legal cases have shaped the landscape of sports betting in the United States. These include:

• Murphy v. NCAA (2018): The Supreme Court overturned PASPA, paving the way for states to legalize sports betting.
• Espinoza v. New Jersey (2017): The Third Circuit Court of Appeals struck down a state law that prohibited sports betting on college sports.
• Christie v. NCAA (2014): The Third Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court ruling that struck down a federal ban on sports betting in New Jersey.

Best Practices for Responsible Gambling

Sports betting should be a fun and exciting way to enjoy your favorite sports. However, it's important to practice responsible gambling and avoid:

• Betting more money than you can afford to lose.
• Chasing losses.
• Borrowing money to bet.
• Gambling when you're under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you have concerns about your gambling habits, please contact a professional for help.

ESPN Bet States FAQs

1. When did sports betting become legal in ESPN bet states?

The dates vary by state, but the first states to legalize sports betting after PASPA was overturned in 2018 were West Virginia, Delaware, New Jersey, and Mississippi.

2. What is the legal minimum age to bet on sports in ESPN bet states?

The legal minimum age to bet on sports in ESPN bet states is 21 years old, with the exception of Montana and Wyoming where it is 18 years old.

3. Can you bet on sports online in all ESPN bet states?

No, not all ESPN bet states allow online sports betting. Some states only offer retail sports betting, while others offer both retail and online options.

4. What are some tips for winning at sports betting?

There is no guaranteed way to win at sports betting, but there are some tips that can help you improve your chances, such as:

• Research the teams and players involved.
• Understand the different types of bets.
• Manage your bankroll wisely.
• Avoid chasing losses.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when betting on sports?

Some common mistakes to avoid when betting on sports include:

• Betting on too many games.
• Not shopping around for the best lines.
• Not understanding the odds.
• Getting emotionally involved in your bets.

6. Where can I get help with problem gambling?

If you have concerns about your gambling habits, please contact a professional for help. There are many resources available, including:

• The National Council on Problem Gambling: 1-800-522-4700
• The National Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
• The Gamblers Anonymous Helpline: 1-855-222-5542

Additional Resources

• ESPN Bet Center: https://www.espn.com/bet-center
• American Gaming Association: https://www.americangaming.org/
• National Council on Problem Gambling: https://www.ncpgambling.org/