Penn National Gaming has been talking with the major sports leagues looking to strike deals on access to data and advertising rights as it looks to expand its sports betting operations.
The casino operator said it has been holding discussions with the NBA, MLB, NHL and PGA Tour, Eric Schippers, senior vice president for public affairs for Penn told the Las Vegas Review Journal.
The talks are focusing on access to data feeds and advertisement rights, Schippers said, adding that the NFL hasn’t been as receptive to the idea.
MGM Resorts has signed a deal with the NBA, becoming the first gaming company to reach an agreement with a sports league on wagering. Under the deal, MGM will receive access to the NBA data feed, and each will have the right to advertise on the other’s platforms.
Schippers said Penn “applauded” the agreement reached but said Penn will not rush to sign an agreement with a league unless it is “good for our shareholders.”
Penn will launch sports betting in Mississippi and West Virginia before the start of football season, Schippers said. Penn is seeking a partner to manager its sports book operations and will make a decision this month, Schippers told the paper.
