Sports betting technology provider Kambi Group has partnered with one of the largest Indian nations in the United States, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
The partnership aims to bring the sportsbook technology to the southeastern portion of the Sooner State. They’ll provide technology and services to Choctaw Nation’s gaming entities with expansion to other states pending approval.
“We are thrilled to have entered into a long-term agreement with Kambi,” said Heidi Grant, senior executive officer of commerce for Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. “Adding Kambi’s best-in-class technology and custom player offerings to Choctaw Nation’s brand and market positioning, Choctaw Nation is poised to remain well positioned as the premier, full-service, vertically integrated gaming operator throughout our region.”
With Kambi’s well-known turnkey sportsbook technology, the Choctaw Nation’s vast digital and e-commerce expertise will be used in this partnership to create a strong presence in future retail and online Oklahoma sports betting.
With the proper legal approvals, this deal creates opportunities for growth into other jurisdictions and establishes the partnership as a possible regional powerhouse in the sports betting industry.
More at GT: Legal Sports Betting States | Texas Sports Betting | How to Bet on the NFL
Who are the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma?
Scattered amid the picturesque surroundings of southeast Oklahoma, the Choctaw Nation, which manages the operations of Choctaw Casinos and Resorts, has a portfolio of top gaming and hospitality locations. Acknowledged as the exclusive and official casino and resort partner of the Texas Rangers, the current World Series winners in Major League Baseball, Choctaw Nation’s properties provide unrivaled style and entertainment.
“This is a landmark partnership for Kambi with exciting long-term potential. Not only does Choctaw Nation have fantastic, well positioned gaming and entertainment facilities in Oklahoma, but its proven track record in developing successful digital businesses gives me every confidence that together we will create thrilling sports betting experiences for its players,” Kambi Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder Kristian Nylén said.
“Due to these exciting credentials, Choctaw Nation was an obvious partner, so I am therefore delighted it saw the benefits of Kambi’s proven technology and recognized our shared values. Trust remains paramount through each tribal partnership, and we look forward to delivering a best-in-class sportsbook that generates long-term sustainable revenues for the Choctaw Nation.”Choctaw Nation’s flagship resort, situated precisely close to the Texas border and easily accessible from the busy Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, home to more than eight million people, is a shining example of luxury and energy.
Being so close to a busy and populated area, the resort is an excellent choice for local Texans and tourists looking for luxurious lodging and exciting gaming experiences in beautiful settings. Other hospitality hubs include McAlester, Stigler, Broken Bow, and Durant.
Sports Betting Update in Oklahoma
It is important to note that the deal was made even though Oklahoma hasn’t yet authorized sports betting. It is still against the law in the state to bet in person or online. This ban still applies, even though Oklahoma has more than 130 Native American-owned casinos and gambling facilities.
Senator Casey Murdock has introduced Senate Bill 1434, a sports betting bill that, if approved by all houses, will legalize sports betting in the state.
Online merchants will have to pay a $500,000 initial license charge. Subsequently, the license has to be renewed annually for another $100,000. The bill calls for a 20% tax rate on sportsbooks that take online wagers, with a slightly lower 15% tax rate on retail betting.
READ MORE: