The New York State Gaming Commission turned down Fanatics in its initial bid to receive a sports betting license almost two years ago. But where there’s a will, there’s a way, and on October 3, the commission gave the company permission to operate.
What changed? Fanatics bought the U.S. assets of PointsBet, which has an online sportsbook license in the Empire State. A humble Fanatics expressed appreciation for the turnaround, according to Yogonet Gaming News.
Still unanswered: when the PointsBet brand can be phased out in favor of Fanatics.
“Today, the New York State Gaming Commission approved Fanatics Betting and Gaming’s acquisition of PointsBet New York LLC,” read the statement released by Fanatics. “We would like to thank the commissioners and staff for their time and effort in delivering us some great news today. We look forward to working with the staff of the Commission to bring the Fanatics Sportsbook to the largest sports wagering state in the U.S.”
The commission performed an extensive review of Fanatics even though New York law does not demand such an investigation under a corporate acquisition.
The commission discussed whether Fanatics would use Topps sports and entertainment cards to promote its sportsbook. Fanatics seemed to indicate the answer is no.
