Daily fantasy sports are digging in deep in the grand state of Arizona, ushering in a dynamic new era for sports aficionados. This cutting-edge online gaming experience lets sports buffs assemble virtual teams of real-life professional athletes. On top of fantasy sports contests, Arizonians can also get into event wagering (ahem, sports betting).
Fortunately, we've got all the details regarding DFS and event wagering in the Arizona area.
We've all been there, anxiously awaiting the final whistle, hoping our pick scores that last-minute touchdown. Daily fantasy sports have turned many sports enthusiasts into armchair strategists. But is it legal in Arizona? That's a question we get asked a lot.
The good news is, yes, DFS is legal in Arizona! Arizona was one of the few states where DFS was off-limits for a while. It was a long-standing issue, dating back to 1998 when Arizona passed strict laws against online gambling. However, things turned for the better in April 2021 when Governor Doug Ducey signed a bill legalizing DFS in the state. Ironically enough, it's also the same legislation that allows online sports betting in Arizona.
Now, let's clear up any confusion. While DFS involves wagering based on players' performance, it's unlike online betting. The latter typically refers to gambling on the outcome of a single game or event, like who will win the Super Bowl. DFS, on the other hand, is about building a fantasy team and earning points based on actual player performances. It's a game of skill, not chance, which makes its legal status different from traditional online gambling.
This change in legislation opened the doors for major DFS platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel to operate in Arizona. Now, Arizonians can join the millions of DFS players across the nation, drafting their fantasy teams and enjoying the thrill that comes with every play.
With that, there's no shortage of ways to get in on the action. You can create your teams and lineup, enter tournaments and leagues, or join public contests with various payouts.
As we said, there are many options for the Grand Canyon State to get in on the DFS train. However, not all DFS operators are created equally. So we've compiled a list of the best Arizona daily fantasy sports sites based on gameplay and bonuses.
Current DraftKings Bonus Offer: $100 Deposit Bonus + A Free Entry
One of the top DFS platforms that's making waves in Arizona is DraftKings. What sets DraftKings apart is the sheer variety it offers. Whether you're a fan of the NFL, NBA, MLB, or PGA, DraftKings has got you covered. You can draft a new lineup and pick from your favorite stars weekly. And that's not all; they also provide contests for everyone, ranging from free entry for a shot at a share of $10,000 to paid contests with larger cash payouts.
What we particularly like about DraftKings is their user-friendly app. Available on both the App Store and Google Play, the DraftKings app delivers an unrivaled DFS experience at your fingertips. The intuitive app lets you quickly draft your teams, join contests, and track your results. Plus, the platform has seen over $10 billion in prizes awarded to date, with winners paid out immediately.
And let's not forget the welcome bonuses. As a new user, DraftKings often offers attractive promotions to get you started. While these offers may vary, they typically include a deposit bonus or free entry into paid contests. So, if you're new to DFS or looking for a fresh start, DraftKings might just be the perfect choice.
Current PrizePicks Bonus Offer: 100% Deposit Match Up to $100
PrizePicks is another player in the DFS arena that's stirred our interest. Launched in 2018, this platform simplifies your fantasy sports betting experience. PrizePicks offers a wide variety of sports and stat types, allowing you to pick more or less on each of the squares in your board. This means you have many options to strategize and make your picks.
What sets PrizePicks apart from other DFS platforms is their unique "6-Pick Flex Play" and "Stat Combos" features. These features add new layers of flexibility and insurance to gameplay, allowing members to build lineups of more than fifteen players. We love this as it adds a layer of strategy and excitement to the game. Plus, PrizePicks is available on the web and as an app for iPhone and Android devices. It's intuitive, consistent, and provides a solid DFS experience regardless of device.
As for welcome bonuses, PrizePicks often provides enticing promotions. While these can vary, they typically offer a deposit bonus. So, if you're looking for a DFS platform that offers a unique twist to the usual formula, PrizePicks is worth checking out.
Current FanDuel Bonus Offer: 100% Deposit Match up to $100
FanDuel is a name that's synonymous with DFS and for good reason. Offering a wide range of sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, Golf, WNBA, and even EPL, FanDuel ensures there's something for every Arizona sports fan. We love how the platform offers one-day, weekly, and season-long game options, allowing for flexibility and sustained engagement. Every player is different, and it seems that they understand that.
One unique aspect of FanDuel that we're particularly fond of is their roster rules for DFS. For instance, in Super Bowl DFS competitions, players can pick a QB, a pair of RBs, a trio of WRs, a kicker, a “Flex” position, and a team defense from the NFC and AFC. This offers a comprehensive and strategic approach to building your fantasy team, which adds to the fun and challenge.
FanDuel has some great bonuses as well. New customers can look forward to bonus bets or a significant bonus on fantasy with their first deposit. They also run promo codes like the "$1000 No Sweat First Bet", adding more value to your initial deposit. So, if you're looking for an immersive and rewarding DFS experience, FanDuel should be high on your list.
Online sports betting is now completely legal in Arizona. This means anyone over 21 has the green light to place their bets on their favorite sports, adding a new layer of excitement to the game.
While we usually focus on traditional fantasy sports here at Eat Watch Draft, we did take the time to list out our favorite and best online sportsbooks in Arizona—
Desert Diamond. This is the only Arizona-based sports betting site, making it a local favorite. They've earned a reputation for their competitive odds and user-friendly interface.
DraftKings. A heavyweight in both the DFS and sportsbook industries, DraftKings has brought its high-quality sportsbook to Arizona. Known for their vast array of sports and betting options, they're a solid choice for beginners and seasoned bettors.
FanDuel. Now licensed in Arizona, FanDuel offers DFS and sports betting. Expect competitive odds and a robust suite of apps for mobile sports betting.
BetMGM. One of the top betting sites in Arizona, BetMGM is known for its generous welcome bonuses and signup offers. They offer a seamless betting experience across a range of sports.
Caesars Sportsbook. A globally recognized brand, Caesars brings its premium sportsbook to Arizona. Their easy-to-use platform and extensive betting markets make them a go-to for many Arizona bettors.
So, whether you're a football, baseball, basketball, or golf fan, you'll find a sportsbook that matches your preferences in Arizona.
We get lots of questions from Arizona sports fans about DFS contests. With that, we've compiled a comprehensive FAQ to answer some of your most burning questions.
Yes, DFS is legal. As of 2021, the state of Arizona has legalized DFS. Since the Arizona law was passed, there are countless Arizona DFS apps you can play in.
You must be at least 21 years old to dive into DFS in Arizona. That's a bit different than other states, where the minimum age can be 18 years old.
Of course! As long as you're within the borders of Arizona, you can play daily fantasy sports from anywhere. Your fantasy team is just a click away, whether at home or on the go. All of the major DFS apps have geolocation technology to make sure you're in Arizona.
There are numerous DFS operators in Arizona, but some top dogs include FanDuel and DraftKings. They offer various sports and game options, ensuring there's something for every sports fan.
You bet there are! Many DFS operators offer welcome bonuses to new players. For instance, FanDuel has a phenomenal bonus right now — 100% Deposit Match up to $100. It's a great way to kickstart your DFS journey.
All DFS platforms have mobile apps available for both iOS and Android devices. This means you can manage your team, make drafts, and track games from your smartphone or tablet.
Yes, you can. Many major platforms like DraftKings offer college sports contests for football and basketball. College football is a massive hit in Arizona, so this is great news for sports fans.
The Arizona Department of Gaming is the regulatory agency for Arizona DFS. They're responsible for ensuring all contests are fair, safe, and legal. So if you have questions or concerns about a contest, contact the Department of Gaming.
In conclusion, the state of Arizona offers a vibrant and dynamic DFS and sports betting landscape. With a diverse range of DFS platforms to choose from, such as FanDuel and DraftKings, to legal sports betting with locally-favored Desert Diamond, residents can engage in various sports contests.
Legalizing online sports betting has added an exciting dimension to the sports scene in Arizona. Whether you're a casual sports fan or a seasoned DFS player, there's something to satisfy everyone's passion for the game.
