Page 124 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2018

SPORTS & OUTDOORS game on
PLACE YOUR BETS
on Sporting Events at Mississippi Casinos
story by Lori Beth Susman
ports betting is coming to Mississippi casinos. On May 14, the United States Supreme Court ruled PASPA (the Professional Amateur Sports Protection Act
of 1992) unconstitutional. And on June 21, the Mississippi Gaming Commission approved regulations for legalized sports betting in Mississippi casinos. In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court decision, casinos along the Gulf Coast began
making plans for their sports books, with many announcing they would be up and running by the start of football season in September.
Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort in D’Iberville was one of the first to say what an exciting opportunity sports betting presented. “The timing could not be better as we are currently under construction for two food and beverage venues as added amenities for our guests,” said CEO LuAnn Pappas.
Added Harrah’s Gulf Coast General Manager Jonathan Jones, “The Supreme Court ruling was not only a big win for Mississippi’s gaming industry, but for the entire state of Mississippi. The future of gaming in Mississippi is bright, and we are well-positioned to capitalize upon this new and exciting opportunity.”
While not all area casinos have announced specific plans for their sports books, Silver Slipper Casino Hotel in Hancock County said it will offer sports betting at a counter located on the casino floor between the Bayou Caddy Oyster Bar and their keno operation. General Manager John Ferrucci said while the counter will be open on specific days, a sports betting
kiosk will be available for players 24/7. Ryan Meister, director of marketing at
Treasure Bay Casino, said their sports book will be located on the first floor adjacent to The Den restaurant. “We are looking forward to offering our guests another opportunity
to enjoy Treasure Bay and are happy that so many sports fans will be able to enjoy sports betting here in Mississippi.”
At casino sports books, guests will be able to bet on all sporting events, including football, which may be the most popular sport in
the South. Bets will be taken on baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey and other events, as well. Mississippi was in the position to move forward on sports betting as quickly as it did following the Supreme Court’s ruling because of the Daily Fantasy Sports Act passed by the Mississippi Legislature in 2016. The act made slight modifications to two provisions of the Mississippi Gaming Control Act that would allow sports betting in the event PASPA was found unconstitutional.
124 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • August 2018
FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net