Jay-Z and Fanatics founder Michael Rubin launch company's first NJ sportsbook at Ocean Casino Resort

Rap superstar Jay-Z joined Fanatics founder Michael Rubin and Betting & Gaming CEO Matt King on Sunday to inaugurate Fanatics Sportsbook’s first location in New Jersey. The opening took place at the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, where the rapper cut the ceremonial ribbon alongside Rubin and Ocean Casino General Manager Bill Callahan.

The Fanatics Sportsbook at Ocean officially opened on September 5. The launch of the sportsbook, Fanatics' first in the state, was marked by a high-profile event attended by celebrities such as Quavo, Dez Bryant, Jalen Rose, and Ryan Clark. Golfer Justin Thomas placed the ceremonial first bet, wagering $100 on Alabama to win the NCAA Football National Championship.

History in the making with @FanaticsBook at @TheOceanAC pic.twitter.com/fLmvgnIunj

— Roc Nation (@RocNation) September 15, 2024

Speaking at the event, King expressed excitement about the venture, highlighting New Jersey’s role as a leader in the gaming space. “There are very few places in the United States like Ocean, so this is a great spot to be,” he said.

The new Fanatics Sportsbook offers patrons a 100-foot elevated bar and lounge with seating for 60, surrounded by slot machines, table games, and 140 feet of LED screens displaying live games and betting odds. The venue offers betting windows and self-service terminals to facilitate easy wagering.

The partnership between Fanatics and Ocean Casino was born from a casual phone conversation between Rubin and Callahan. According to Callahan, the idea stemmed from a discussion about customer experience. 

Inside the room where legends play at @FanaticsBook @TheOceanAC with Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter (Co-Founder Fanatics Sportsbook) pic.twitter.com/zewPCRpeT9

— Roc Nation (@RocNation) September 15, 2024

The opening marks another step in Fanatics’ expansion into sports betting, with New Jersey's Fanatics Sportsbook being the company’s first sportsbook experience in the country complete with food, bar, television and gaming. The brand also operates 21 smaller kiosks across the country. 

Sunday’s event also included a blackjack tournament and NFL viewing party, continuing a tradition of high-profile gatherings hosted by Rubin and Jay-Z. The duo had previously partnered on a blackjack tournament at Ocean Casino last year to benefit the nonprofit Reform Alliance, which advocates for probation and sentencing reform.

Rubin noted that his focus isn’t solely on business, but also on enhancing Atlantic City’s entertainment landscape. “I think this is a very special building, a special place run by a special individual,” he said, referring to Callahan. “And I think he’s going to outperform everybody here.”