April is often a slow month in terms of sports betting, but Arizona posted its third-highest handle by bringing in over $512m in wagers during the month. Still, it is a decrease from the numbers posted in March, which was a record-setting month.
Sports betting became legal in Arizona in September of 2021 and in April ranked among the top ten sporting handles in the US. Through the first eight months of sports betting, Arizona’s sportsbooks have produced $4bn in online and retail wagers.
Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming Ted Vogt said: "Event wagering levels continue to look strong in Arizona, with over half a billion dollars wagered during April. I am excited to see how the state closes out its first year of legal event wagering in the coming months."
Arizona Sportsbooks won $16.5 million in gross sports betting revenue and gained approximately $1.6m in sports betting taxes. Along with the $4bn in online and retail wagers, the state saw $263.8m in gross revenue and $11.9m in privilege fees for the state since sports betting became legal.
In more Arizona news, there will be a new casino for Arizonans to place bets at in 2023. The Santan Mountain Casino is set for a 2023 opening after first breaking ground in October of 2021.
The new casino will also include a nearly 7,000-square-foot BetMGM Sportsbook and bar that will extend the casino floor. This is the fourth casino that the Gila River Indian Community will own and operate.
Tribe Governor Stephen Roe Lewis said: "Not only will Santan Mountain bring additional revenue, sustainability and critical services to our Community members, it will elevate our prestige in the gaming and hospitality industry as we continue to craft an entertainment dynasty."
Governor Lewis also stated the project will create hundreds of new jobs that will be filled mostly by community members.
