Scientific Games and tribal operator Oneida Indian Nation have secured approval from the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) for the partners’ sports betting venture New York State.
The partnership, first announced in January, will see Scientific Games provide its OpenBet technology to power sports betting at Oneida’s three New York casinos: Turning Stone Resort, Yellow Brick Road and Point Place.
This will include player management software and dynamic pre-game and live data feeds from Scientific Games-owned Don Best Sports, which is part of its SG Digital business.
However, despite gaining a favourable determination from the NIGC – something that was required in order for the partnership to commence – the deal remains subject to New York passing legislation to legalise sports betting. Both Scientific Games and Oneida expect this to happen before the end of the year.
“We are proud that we will be among the first Indian nations nationally to offer sports betting, and we appreciate NIGC’s review and approval of our partnership with Scientific Games,” Oneida Indian Nation representative and Nation Enterprises CEO, Ray Halbritter, said.
“Our partnership with Scientific Games and SG Digital will give our guests an incredible sports betting experience while providing our properties a strong foundation to grow this market in New York.”
Jordan Levin, group chief executive of SG Digital, added” “We’re making great strides in preparing for the New York market to go live with sports betting, and we’re honoured to work with the Oneida Indian Nation to activate our proven sports betting solution.
“Being part of the first sports betting partnership to receive a favourable NIGC determination is a significant milestone that will set both Scientific Games and Oneida up for ongoing success.”
New York has been considering the introduction of sports betting for some time, with the New York State Gaming Commission setting out its initial regulations in January of this year.
Earlier this month, New York took a step closer to legalising sports betting when the New York Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee voted to advance a bill that would regulate in-person and mobile sports wagering in the state.