DraftKings, the digital entertainment and gaming sports betting company, has today announced that the Louisiana Gaming Control Board has granted the platform its daily fantasy sports license.
With this, Louisiana will become the 44th state to offer DraftKings’ fantasy sports. The platform will be available in 47 out of the state's 64 parishes.
Different from traditional sports betting, fantasy sports involve creating a team of real world players and winning points based on their on-field performance. The platform provides fantasy sports for leagues such as the NFL, MLB and NBA. The operator also represents a number of esports leagues.
In celebration of its launch in Louisiana, DraftKings will provide all new customers who place $5 on their first bet with,- $3 in credit. The legalization of fantasy sports will also see players throughout the state given the opportunity to take part in charity-based competitions. One of these aims to plant one million trees by Earth Day 2022.
Matt Kalish, president of DraftKings North America, said: “As DraftKings continues our nationwide expansion, we welcome Louisiana to the DraftKings family, an area rich with culture, heritage and die-hard fanbases in both professional and college sports.”
“The Bayou will now have access to our world-leading daily fantasy sports product as we ramp up toward the kickoff of football season.”
In a press release, DraftKings has suggested a number of changes have been implemented on its platform to aid new players. This includes the establishment of a fair play commitment to prohibit top-earning players from entering beginner contests.
DraftKings’ fantasy sports betting product is currently available in seven countries with 15 separate sports leagues playable. The company also owns Vegas Sports Information Network, a multi-platform broadcast and content company.
