Legal Sports Report’s Gouker LIVE on Mobile Sports Betting in RI -- and Competition from MA & CT
Legal Sports Report’s Gouker LIVE on Mobile Sports Betting in RI -- and Competition from MA & CT
“That $23 [million] number that you cited — that was if they launched pretty quickly, and that didn’t happen,” said Gouker of Rhode Island downgrading its first year revenue projections from sports betting already from $23.5 million to $11.5 million. “ I think it also a little optimistic no matter what, with just the two locations for sports betting in Rhode Island.”
“I think it’s early and you’ll be waiting until the real revenue hits and I know the state’s already looking at mobile betting — that will really expand who can bet,” said Gouker. “If you have remote registration, where you can sign up for an app — you’ll see way more betting, way more revenue. New Jersey since its [mobile] launch has seen something like 2/3 of wagering is via mobile. I think Rhode Island would be smart to move in that direction. “
Gouker also warned the state to temper its revenue expectations if Massachusetts — or Connecticut — legalizes sports betting.
“If any of those surrounding states around you go live, that’s going to hurt you,” said Gouker. “I’m sure you had some amount of drive-in traffic of people going to want action on the [Patriots] for sure.”