If we were to sum up the year 2020 in five words or less, we might simply say: A Year To Remember. Or depending on how the year went for you, you’d be more inclined to say, “Forget It.” While some industries took a major hit during the pandemic, other industries thrived as people tried to keep themselves busy and entertained while following stay-at-home orders.
One of the industries that thrived during the pandemic, and continues to do well, includes online gambling and sports betting. Whether you’re an avid sports bettor or have just recently become interested in sports betting, here’s what to watch for as we close out 2020 and enter 2021.
Expanding Beyond Sports
From collegiate sports and major league teams to historical international sporting events like the Summer Olympics, the COVID-19 pandemic forced cancellations, postponements, and other heavy restrictions. The lack of sporting events, made sports betting a little more challenging with fewer opportunities.
In an effort to keep sports betting going, betting branched out to other less traditional events like eSports or less popular sports, particularly in other parts of the world. While major sports like football, hockey, and basketball aren’t quite back to normal we expect that sports bettors can start betting on their favorite team in 2021. Of course, it all depends on how the pandemic continues to control the sports world.
The new year will likely expand to include less traditional sports and even non-sporting events into the betting sector. Like to make a friendly bet with friends over a game of ping pong or which entertainer will win an award? Betting might expand to include anyone, not just big league sports lovers.
Continued Betting Online and Increased Digitization
Although sports betting has a long history with in-person sporting events, 2020 was the year where people tried to do as much as they could online and from the safety of their home. Even though in-person sporting events had strong restrictions throughout the year, many sports fans opted to bet online rather than to risk the crowds in public.
As different parts of the globe begin to allow people to return to sports stadiums at a limited and safe capacity, we’re likely to see a continued interest in online sports betting. As more people continue to sports bet online, we can also expect more sports betting companies to digitize and become mobile-friendly.
Not only will digitization help ensure there are fewer interruptions in the world of sports betting, but more people might consider sports betting than ever before.
More Legalization Throughout the U.S.
If you’re new to sports betting, there’s a good chance that you might not know whether or not it’s legal in your state.
As of November of 2020, there are 20 states where it’s legal to bet on sports bet, but it’s important to note that each state has its own rules. For example, sports betting is legal in Nevada and Delaware. While Nevada allows in-person and mobile betting with no restrictions, Delaware only allows in-person betting and prohibits betting on in-state college teams.
Several states, including Michigan, are predicted to legalize sports betting in 2021.
Final Thoughts
At a glance, 2021 looks to be a promising year for sports betting. The good news is, you don’t have to wait until the new year to try out sports betting online. Check out this list of best sports betting sites as you say goodbye to 2020 and usher in a brand new year.
