Legal sports betting is now open for business in Arizona, as elected officials joined team representatives from two of Arizona’s professional sports franchises on Thursday.
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey joined representatives of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns and the sportsbook industry to celebrate what he said is the launch of a new era for gaming in Arizona.
Ducey said this means new job opportunities, more tourism in the state and increased tax revenues that will benefit Arizonans and tribal communities.
The Caesars Sportsbook opened at Chase Field with Diamondbacks legend Luis Gonzalez and comedian J.B. Smoove, who appears in the Caesars commercials. Later Thursday, the FanDuel Sportsbook opened down the street at Footprint Center, with Suns officials and former NBA players and Arizona Wildcats alums Richard Jefferson and Channing Frye.
The governor signed H.B. 2772, which legalized fantasy sports and event wagering in Arizona.