CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Sports gambling in North Carolina remains a hot buy since it launched in March.
New data released by the state's lottery commission shows that nearly $85 million in tax revenue has been generated from legal sports gambling.
In just the month of October, North Carolina bet more than $600 million on sporting events. As sports betting continues to be an exciting element for fans, the state and local businesses are hoping to bring the same level of excitement as well.
Platform Sports is one of the latest businesses in the Queen City centered around enhancing the sports experience. Francesca Rovalino said venues like his allow fans to watch multiple events at the same time.
The sports venue has walls full of TVs and options for bettors to watch.
“You're surrounded by other sports fans that are rooting for the same or the opposite team," Rovalino added.
Two major sports events are on the calendar including one with boxing legend Mike Tyson. Gambling counselor Dr. Jessica Auslander admits she’s already seen an update in the number of cases related to betting.
"I'm still fielding about two or three requests a week since the summer for either new patient appointments, consultation or training," Auslander said.
That's why Auslander stresses anyone betting on games to only gamble for fun and not chase losses. It's critical that bettors stick to their budget and not lose money they'd use for essentials.
"We want to make sure people stick to their budget. If they lose it all, they can walk away," Auslander said. "If someone finds themselves chasing, which means they are returning to gambling or gambling higher amounts to win back something that they've lost, then that's a major red flag. If you can set limits on yourself in terms of the amount of time you spend on the activity and the amount of money you're spending, then you're probably going to be OK."
With so many people getting in on sports betting, local businesses are hoping to cash in, too.
"Sports betting has been huge since it launched," Rovalino said. "I think that's kind of what helped spark the idea behind Platform Sports. We have sports tickers on the screens and we're also working on getting one set up above the bar so you'll have all the odds in your face."
Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
Playing the lottery is a form of gambling. If you are concerned about your gambling or worried about a friend, you can call the NC Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-718-5543. You can also contact the National Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.