Detroit Lions Roar Into Sportsbook Partnership With MGM Detroit

The Detroit Tigers established PointsBet Sportsbook as their inaugural official sportsbook partner, while the honor of partnering with the Detroit Lions goes to BetMGM Sports.

The sportsbook, a collaboration between GVC and MGM Resorts International, is already in operation within the bustling MGM Grand Detroit casino in Michigan. Conveniently located just a brief stroll away from Ford Field.

The agreement comprises of in-stadium and broadcast advertisements, as well as additional digital promotions. This Lions deal follows the pattern of other agreements within the NFL, like the one between BetMGM and the Denver Broncos that involves an in-stadium betting lounge. However, there are currently no intentions to create a similar betting lounge at Ford Field.

In March, MGM Grand Detroit introduced sports betting, and as the launch of mobile sports betting in Michigan approaches later this year, online operators such as BetMGM are intensifying their marketing campaigns.

Sportsbook deal an extension of Lions, MGM partnership

The partnership between the Lions and BetMGM is a continuation of their existing connection with MGM.

BetMGM has signed up as the presenting sponsor for Lions Bingo and Lions Perks, with a comprehensive marketing package that encompasses broadcast promotions, digital marketing, and in-stadium signage.

Last season, the team app introduced a Lions Bingo card where players could earn prizes by filling it with runs or achieved statistics. However, this year, players have the chance to win cash prizes in the free game by accurately predicting the sequence of game scenarios.

Exclusive rewards will be available through the BetMGM app and BetMGM Sports Lounge at the downtown casino courtesy of Lions Perks.

MGM and the Lions already share a connection, exemplified by the existence of the MGM Grand Tunnel Club situated within Ford Field.

Lions President Rod Wood, in an official statement, expressed his pride in the longstanding connection between the Detroit Lions and BetMGM. He announced the official partnership between the two entities and emphasized the team’s commitment to entertaining and engaging their fans, particularly in the midst of unusual circumstances. Wood also highlighted the exciting opportunities that this collaboration with BetMGM will bring for fan involvement.

BetMGM already recognized name in Michigan

This agreement marks the Lions’ first entry into the highly competitive online gambling market.

In July, PointsBet formed a partnership with the Tigers, aiming to establish its presence in a new market as a relatively unfamiliar entity. Additionally, this collaboration marked the first-ever sportsbook deal between a Major League Baseball team and PointsBet.

BetMGM’s focus lies in strengthening its brand recognition in markets where it already boasts a strong foundation.

BetMGM Chief Marketing Officer Matt Prevost, a University of Michigan graduate, expressed his initial intention to establish strong connections with the leading teams in the state upon the opening of the BetMGM Sports Lounge at MGM Grand Detroit in March. Prevost further expressed his gratitude for being chosen as the Lions’ first sports betting partner and providing their fans exclusive access to exceptional promotions and advantages solely found on BetMGM.

Deal represents changing times for NFL, Lions

The recent development signifies a significant shift within the NFL, as it joins the movement to embrace gambling in multiple legally operating states.

The Lions were acquired by automotive executive William Clay Ford in 1963, and despite Ford’s passing in 2014, the team has remained under the ownership of the Ford family.

During the offseason, the late Ford’s wife, Martha Firestone Ford, transferred team authority to their daughter, Sheila Ford Hamp.

In 2016, the conservative family was among the final groups to introduce cheerleaders to their team.

However, the Lions have now taken a step forward in the realm of sports betting, joining the ranks of other teams. Examples of these teams include the Broncos and Indianapolis Colts, who have partnered with FanDuel for daily fantasy sports promotions. The New York Jets have aligned themselves with MGM and 888 Casino, while the Dallas Cowboys have joined forces with WinStar Casino in Oklahoma. Additionally, the Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders have forged agreements with Caesars.

There will be additional deals coming up in the NFL.