Michigan Sports Betting Analysis: Barstool Down, PointsBet Up As Slowdown Nears

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Written By Matt Schoch on March 17, 2021Last Updated on February 15, 2022
Michigan Sports Betting Analysis March 2021

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In the month of February, residents of Michigan wagered a higher amount on sports than any other state’s residents during their initial month of online betting.

There is a significant amount of information to process, but we will give it a try.

In the recently launched MI sports betting market, over $300 million was bet last month. This impressive figure is particularly notable considering the ongoing basketball and hockey seasons, as well as the conclusion of the football season.

Who among the 12 operators in the state experienced the most significant upward progress? Who witnessed a decline? What can we anticipate for the market’s future?

With 38 days of Michigan online sports betting revenue data now available, let’s dive into our key observations.

1. PointsBet proving old-school marketing works

A year ago, PointsBet was virtually unknown to the majority of Michigan residents.

While the Australian company may not yet be as well-known as DraftKings or FanDuel, it is steadily climbing towards the upper echelon.

Although PointsBet remains in fifth place in terms of market share, trailing behind FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, and Barstool, it has experienced a significant increase in its share of handle. Jumping by a whole percentage point, from 1.3% to 2.3%, is quite substantial. In January, PointsBet received $1.5 million in bets, but this figure rose to $7.0 million in February.

In the beginning, PointsBet invested funds and strategically pursued high-profile deals to establish their brand presence and generate publicity.

MLB’s inaugural collaboration with the Detroit Tigers marked a significant milestone. Richard Hamilton became the pioneering athlete from Michigan to ink a deal with a sports betting brand. PointsBet’s presence is evident at Little Caesars Arena with a dedicated themed bar, prominent placement on the ice and boards during Red Wings broadcasts, and ubiquitous signage throughout downtown Detroit.

Progress is being made and it’s already yielding positive results, even without the launch of an online casino. Once the company launches its online casino, which is expected to happen soon, it will open up new opportunities for cross-selling and allow for increased investment in customer acquisition.

2. Barstool needs to find more Michigan pizza to review

While PointsBet Sportsbook in Michigan is celebrating its position at No. 5, the operator it is pursuing at No. 4 is not boasting as usual.

After the successful launch in Michigan, Barstool proudly announced its lead in sports betting revenue and secured the third position in terms of handle in January. This achievement firmly placed them among the top contenders in the industry.

However, there is no way to spin it positively when market share drops from 23.9% to 13.3% in February, placing in a distant fourth position.

What transpired?

Barstool deserves recognition for being present on the ground during launch week. Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, went above and beyond by trying every pizza from Melvindale to East Lansing, capturing viral videos along the way. It was a brilliant move by Penn National Gaming to match opening-weekend bets and contribute them to The Barstool Fund.

After a challenging 2020, there are numerous small businesses in Michigan that are in need of assistance, and Michiganders are eager to extend their support.

However, viral marketing has a limited duration as the internet swiftly shifts its attention to the next captivating thing.

Portnoy’s silence on the Michigan revenue numbers Tuesday was quite revealing.

Flat debut for Barstool online casino

Barstool’s disappointment extends beyond losing ground in sports betting; their No. 5 finish in online casino also falls short of expectations.

BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, and PokerStars outshined the Greektown Casino partner, leaving them in the shadows.

The brand did not prioritize the online casino aspect, even though Barstool Casino was launched on Feb. 1, allowing for an additional opportunity to shine.

The product appears identical to other Kambi brand offerings, lacking any unique features to draw the attention of the company’s devoted Stoolies to the platform.

In the future, Barstool has the potential to enhance its branding for online casinos, although it will require a significant amount of time to accomplish.

3. What do spring and summer look like for MI sports betting?

March Madness will dominate online sports betting this month.

Michigan is experiencing an abundance of promotions, with an estimated $100 million or more being wagered solely on March Madness.

What happens after the nets are removed on April 5 in Indianapolis?

Sports betting experiences fluctuations throughout the year, with certain seasons taking precedence. Football season reigns supreme, with the Super Bowl being the most significant betting event of the year. Following that, March Madness contributes to a surge in the market before a prolonged offseason from April to August.

BetMGM and FanDuel have a reduced number of sports available for advertising to a captive audience on TV. Additionally, as the coronavirus pandemic is tackled with widespread vaccinations, the potential distraction of summer vacations may divert even dedicated fans from engaging in sports betting.

After March, it is likely that the predictions of monthly betting handles reaching $500 million will continue until September.

However, will smaller operators view the slowdown as an opportunity to attract some customers from larger competitors? Could they identify niche markets and invest in them while industry leaders brace for decline?

Alternatively, during the offseason, can the superior online casino offerings take the spotlight and subsequently enable these operators to attract those new customers to sports betting once fall arrives?

As we approach the end of the first 38 days, an array of possibilities and opportunities lie ahead. The eyes of the global market will be closely observing Michigan.

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