Esports Entertainment Group applies for New Jersey gaming license

Esports Entertainment Group said Tuesday it submitted its gaming license application with the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.

“This is our first gaming license application in the US, and once approved, we believe we will be the first esports-vertical focused sportsbook with a state license in the US,” Grant Johnson, CEO of Esports Entertainment Group, said in a press release. “According to a study from data firm Interpret, over 50% of U.S. esports fans said they are likely to engage in esports betting so we are confident that demand will be strong. We are ready to move quickly with our esports-focused wagering platform rollout once the DGE permits us to do so, which we expect in the second quarter this year.”

“Securing access to what is currently the largest market for sports betting in the US will provide a strong advantage as we look to expand into additional markets in the US moving forward. We look forward to updating our stakeholders on continued progress on these initiatives in the months ahead,” Johnson added.

New Jersey took the national lead for monthly sports wagering last August with $668 million in bets, and each month since has set a new record, with December reaching nearly $1 billion. December was the second straight month the state topped $900 million in total sports handle.