888 launches SI Sportsbook in Virginia, vows to contribute to communities through new partnership

Online betting and gaming company 888 announced Monday it has launched its SI Sportsbook in Virginia, the product's second state following its successful launch in Colorado in September 2021.

Offering a unique value proposition for the state’s sports fans, SI Sportsbook combines 888’s proprietary technology with the Sports Illustrated brand, a press release explains. Purpose built for the U.S. market, the product offers a full range of wagering opportunities including enhanced in-play markets.

Additionally, the sportsbook is powered by official data from leagues and tournaments such as National Football League, Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, National Hockey League, NASCAR and the English Premier League. 

888 intends to roll out its in-house SI Sportsbook platform into further states in the months ahead and will continue integrating its tools, feeds and widgets into Sports Illustrated’s digital content, creating diverse experiences for players, an official statement reads.

As part of its new launch, the company has partnered with Virtual Entertainment Partners, a Virginia-based small, woman-owned and minority-owned certified company, with 100% African American female ownership. 

With VEP’s expertise, 888 has committed to making significant contributions to communities across Virginia, specifically minority communities, to drive meaningful value, opportunity and diversity for Virginians.

In an official press release, Howard Mittman, President, 888 U.S., spoke about this launch and said: “We are delighted to launch SI Sportsbook in Virginia. Following the success of its debut launch in Colorado last September, this is an important milestone for both ourselves and our partners."

"With its growing base of sports betting fans, we believe that Virginia will play a significant role in the continued development of SI Sportsbook over the coming months," Mittman added. "Expanding further in the U.S. market is an important part of our ambition to become a global online betting and gaming leader, and we look forward to introducing the brand to players across the state.”

British firm 888 has recently confirmed that it is set to complete its purchase of William Hill’s international assets from US casino and gaming giant Caesars Entertainment with a scheduled date for late June. 

Caesars first bought British bookmaker William Hill in a $4 billion deal completed in April 2021, in one of the largest mergers within the gambling industry in recent years, and then agreed to sell its non-US assets to 888 for $2.88 billion. But last month, 888 announced it would be paying a smaller price than the one initially announced last September.