MotorCity FanDuel Sportsbook Opens Just As Games Are Shut Down Due To Coronavirus Pandemic

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In Detroit, the question of whether or not sports are being played remains, but one thing is certain – sports wagering is now available in all three casinos.

On Thursday morning in Michigan, MotorCity Casino unveiled its FanDuel Sportsbook, one day after their crosstown rivals. The event was made more special with the presence of Barry Sanders as the distinguished guest.

After MGM Grand Detroit and Greektown Casino-Hotel launched their sportsbooks on Wednesday, MotorCity became the third casino in Detroit to open its own sportsbook. This happened just one day following the approval of rules by the Michigan Gaming Control Board, making Michigan the 16th state to allow legal sports wagering.

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Brutal timing

For those who advocated for an NCAA Tournament opening, it is an unfortunate twist of fate that March Madness was abruptly canceled mere hours after the sportsbook had commenced operations.

“After addressing a few queries about the coronavirus, Bruce Dall, the president of MotorCity Casino, acknowledged, ‘Our timing wasn’t ideal, was it?’ He further emphasized the need to vigilantly observe the situation and adapt accordingly.”

The sportsbook, which spans two stories, is equipped with six betting windows, 67 televisions, and 54 self-serve IGT PlaySports betting kiosks. Dall stated that the construction of this expansive sportsbook, measuring almost 9,000 square feet, commenced in late January and incurred a cost slightly exceeding $3 million.

According to him, worries regarding the virus have not yet affected the flow of visitors at the casino. The establishment is under the ownership of Marian Ilitch, who is the widow of the late Mike, the previous owner of Tigers and Red Wings, and the mother of Christopher, who currently manages the teams.

Dall mentioned that the selection of FanDuel from 22 partnership offers allows bettors to place wagers on those teams.

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Barry bets on the Tigers at FanDuel Sportsbook

Sanders decided to place a $20 bet on the Tigers, one of the teams owned by Ilitch, in hopes of them winning the World Series.

After performing a ceremonial ribbon cutting, engaging in a meet and greet with fans, and placing four additional wagers worth $20 each on college basketball conference tournament games, the Lions legend received unfortunate news later on. The games that were affected by cancellations were Michigan versus Rutgers in the Big Ten, Duke against North Carolina State in the Atlantic Coast Conference, Texas versus Texas Tech in the Big 12, and the over in that particular game.

Sanders, who notably refrained from betting on his former team, acknowledged the significance of those events. He emphasized the convergence of various entities, including the legislature, sports industry, and passionate fans, highlighting the evident magnitude of the situation.

When questioned about his belief in the Tigers (+50000) as a favorable bet, he replied by saying, “We do have a chance.”

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Fans, bettors excited for Michigan sports betting launch

Greg Thomas of St. Clair Shores, a devoted fan of Sanders, proudly sported his No. 20 Honolulu Blue jersey and Lions’ jacket to show his support for the legendary player.

Thomas expressed his utmost admiration, stating, “He is unquestionably my favorite of all time. The moment I discovered that Barry would be present, I simply had to attend. Fans have eagerly anticipated this for quite some time, although it would have been even more remarkable if horses were included. Nevertheless, I voted in favor of this arrangement. Let’s transform it into a miniature version of Las Vegas, if you catch my drift.”

Although fans have the opportunity to bet on all major US and college sports, international club soccer wagers are currently not permitted. Additionally, it is important to note that Detroit casinos do not offer horse racing bets.

The opening was also attended by Michael Webber, a Republican state representative from Rochester Hills, and Matt Hall, a Republican state representative from Marshall.

Later in the day, it was reported that the Big Ten Tournament in Indianapolis had been canceled. However, prior to the tournament’s opening, the NBA had already announced the suspension of their games.

Webber, who placed a wager on his alma mater Michigan State to emerge victorious in the NCAA Tournament, expressed his belief that there will be a significant impact on the betting scene. However, he remains optimistic about a future return to normalcy, envisioning a time when people can fully relish the thrill of betting on sporting events. He highlights the convenience of being able to engage in this activity within Detroit or at tribal casinos scattered throughout the state, eliminating the need to travel to Vegas or Atlantic City.

Throughout the year, Michigan’s tribal casinos are in the process of formalizing their plans to establish their own sports betting facilities.

On Wednesday, the BetMGM Sportsbook at MGM Grand Detroit was inaugurated, featuring Lomas Brown, a former teammate of Sanders, among the notable attendees. Similarly, Lem Barney, a former star of the Lions, graced the opening of the temporary facility at Greektown Sportsbook. Greektown owners, Penn National Gaming, have joined forces with Barstool Sports, ensuring that the permanent sportsbook, set to open before football season, will bear the brand’s identity.

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