The Arizona sports betting law is still waiting for a gubernatorial signature but DraftKings is already making moves in the state.
The operator announced Wednesday it plans to open a “ first-of-its-kind” sportsbook on-course at TPC Scottsdale.
DraftKings was already an official betting operator of the PGA Tour.
DraftKings betting hub
The new sportsbook could be up and running by the 2023 Super Bowl, the partners said. Arizona will host that event at State Farm Stadium in Glendale.
DraftKings said it plans to create a “visually stunning 19th hole experience” where fans can gather year-round to place wagers, watch sports, and enjoy food and beverages.
The partners are still deciding the exact location of the sportsbook on the course.
Why TPC Scottsdale for DraftKings Arizona?
TPC Scottsdale hosts the Waste Management Phoenix Open every year around the time of the Super Bowl.
The event is known for its stadium-like 16th hole and party atmosphere. Ezra Kucharz, chief business officer at DraftKings, said:
“This momentous effort to pursue a first-of-its-kind sportsbook with the PGA TOUR is a testament to the vision of both organizations that we believe will ultimately benefit Arizona sports fans who want to legally bet on sports.”
Arizona sports betting just around the corner?
The new Arizona sports betting law passed this week made the entire deal possible. Following that, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey is expected to sign the bill into law this week.
The legislation proposes 20 licenses, with ten for Arizona’s professional sports teams – including TPC Scottsdale. DraftKings also secures mobile market access for Arizona via the deal.
A company spokesperson said it will not be clear who receives the actual AZ sports betting license until the state finalizes regulations.
Golf is embracing sports betting
The PGA Tour has aggressively embraced US sports betting. For instance, it has:
- Launched an official betting feed with IMG Arena.
- Launched a betting information website in partnership with The Action Network.
- Integrated odds into broadcasts.
Norb Gambuzza, the Tour’s SVP of Media and Gaming, said:
“The PGA TOUR commends the State of Arizona and Governor Ducey for their forward-thinking approach to legal sports betting.”
“We are thrilled to work with DraftKings – along with the City of Scottsdale and the Thunderbirds – to explore a one-of-a-kind sportsbook experience at TPC Scottsdale and the world-class Waste Management Phoenix Open.”
DraftKings was also named the exclusive sports betting partner of the Waste Management Phoenix Open as part of the arrangement.
