Bally Bet launches in Massachusetts, expanding sports betting options to seven operators

Massachusetts welcomed its seventh mobile sports betting platform on Tuesday as Bally Bet officially launched.

Bally Bet joins a competitive field that includes BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, ESPN Bet, Fanatics Sportsbook, and FanDuel, expanding the array of options available to bettors across the state. The launch follows recent exits by Betr and WynnBet, reducing the total number of active platforms from an earlier high of eight.

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission unanimously approved Bally's operations certificate on Monday, clearing the final hurdle for the company almost a year and a half after state regulators initially cleared the company to enter the state's market.

"We’re super excited to go live in Massachusetts, a state with such a rich sports history, a state where sports are part of the fabric of the community," expressed Brett Calapp, Bally’s chief operating officer, during the approval meeting.

The addition of Bally Bet follows the Boston Celtics' recent win of their 18th NBA championship and comes as the Red Sox gear up for a pivotal series against rival New York.

Under Massachusetts law, up to 17 platforms can operate, either tethered to existing casinos or horse racetracks or as standalone mobile entities. Bally Bet, among the initial group licensed, opted to delay its launch earlier this year after renewing a temporary license.

Physical sportsbooks at locations like Plainridge Park Casino, MGM Springfield, and Encore Boston Harbor complement the mobile platforms, although digital betting accounts for the vast majority of wagering activity.

According to the latest data from the Gaming Commission, Massachusetts bettors placed $587.26 million in sports wagers in May alone, generating approximately $57 million in taxable gaming revenue. DraftKings remains the dominant player in the market, capturing over half of all betting action during that period.

Since the legalization of sports betting in early 2023, the industry has contributed significantly to state coffers, with approximately $149.18 million collected in total state taxes and assessments.