Gila River Casino’s BetMGM Sportsbooks bring a touch of Las Vegas to the Valley.
Upon arrival at the Lone Butte facility at Gila River Resorts and Casino, your attention is immediately drawn to the impressive BetMGM-branded retail sportsbook that towers above the lively casino floor.
The sportsbook, which was revealed to the public in November, is clearly designed to be the central attraction for the longstanding Valley casino operator. Boasting 25 large-screen displays, 20 betting kiosks, seating for more than 100 guests, traditional blackjack tables, and a full-service bar that stretches across the entire wall.
Recently opened, the Lone Butte BetMGM sportsbook is one of three Gila River Resorts and Casinos locations. The other two can be found at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler and Vee Quiva in Laveen. Situated just off Loop 202 in south Chandler, all three locations were opened in November.
Despite not being awarded one of the 10 Arizona sports betting licenses by the Department of Gaming, the Gila River Indian Community was granted approval to run retail sportsbook operations at their casinos after signing the 2021 gaming compact.
Blake Katsnelson, the General Manager of Lone Butte, is one of the select few who comprehends the intricate steps involved in the creation of the dazzling BetMGM venue. He oversaw the entire development process from beginning to end, working diligently from May to November.
The long-time employee at Gila River Resorts and Casinos shared with yengols.com that the sportsbooks at Lone Butte, Vee Quiva, and Wild Horse Pass have been very well-received.
The BetMGM retail sportsbook will debut next football season outside of Glendale’s State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals. Gila River Resorts and Casinos have teamed up with BetMGM and the Cardinals to collaborate on constructing this exciting new sportsbook.
Katsnelson stated that the facilities have exceeded their initial expectations. The busiest days in January were during the NFL Playoffs and UFC events. All UFC fights are screened at no charge for guests at every location. This enables guests to watch the fight or game, make bets, dine, drink, and gamble all under one roof, offering a comprehensive entertainment experience.
A touch of Las Vegas in the center of the valley.
Gila River decided to incorporate a retail sportsbook due to the anticipation of high customer demand for amenities such as sports betting, eliminating the need for a lengthy five-hour journey to Las Vegas for such services.
Katsnelson argues that by providing in-person betting options and a variety of popular table games like roulette, craps, and baccarat, Gila River gains a competitive edge over its rivals in Las Vegas.
Katsnelson emphasized that now customers can enjoy the full Las Vegas experience without having to travel to the city. Everything they could want is available here, offering guests a comprehensive experience. The aim was to make sure that guests get the exact experience they are looking for.
Gila River’s Customers Loving Sportsbooks
Customers of Gila River have been extremely pleased with the BetMGM sportsbooks, with Katsnelson mentioning that many patrons have praised the facilities for offering a top-notch product comparable to what you would find in Las Vegas.
Katsnelson pointed out that many individuals are now opting to stay local as they can access all their desired amenities, including top-notch dining, sports betting, and a wide range of table games, without the need to travel to Las Vegas.
Katsnelson has been pleased to witness the transformation of the Gila River sportsbooks from a concept to a tangible establishment, having played a role in the committee that supervised their development.
He explained that the committee distinguishes their facilities from competitors by combining traditional sportsbook features such as Gary Platt reclining lounge chairs and bar top seating with table games and various entertainment options.
Katsnelson expressed his enjoyment in being heavily involved in the process of creating a unique experience, different from the traditional sportsbook setting with chairs and large screens. He and his team strived to develop an exhilarating atmosphere where guests could engage in a combination of table games and sports betting. For instance, at Lone Butte, they incorporated blackjack tables, while at Wild Horse Pass, they introduced Top Golf to enhance the overall experience.
This sportsbook is anything but typical and traditional. I think these facilities are a distinctive feature that makes our properties stand out and offers our guests something fresh and exciting to look forward to.
Promotions for Super Bowl Sunday at Gila River
Arizona sports betting apps are getting ready for the most anticipated betting weekend of the year as they plan to offer “Super Sunday Giveaway” promotions during Super Bowl LVI between Cincinnati and the Los Angeles Rams at three venues.
Katsnelson is convinced that the hourly drawings for sports memorabilia prizes from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday will add to an already memorable weekend.
He stated that the NFL Playoffs leading up to the Super Bowl have generated a lot of interest over the past three weeks. All three of our establishments have experienced crowded sportsbooks during the games, resulting in significant betting profits. As a result, he expects a similar level of turnout for Super Bowl Sunday.
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Author
Peterson Christopher has over seven years of experience covering sports and sports betting in Arizona. He has worked at ArizonaSports.com, the Tucson Weekly, and the Green Valley News. Currently, he is the lead writer at yengols.com.
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