Ontario’s online sports betting scene continues to soar as basketball takes the lead in the province’s iGaming market, emerging as the most popular sport among bettors for the fiscal year 2023-2024. According to recent data from iGaming Ontario, basketball accounted for a substantial 24% of all wagers placed by Ontario players, cementing its position as the top sport in the province’s ever-expanding online betting landscape.
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This surge in basketball betting aligns with the growing appeal of sports betting in Ontario, which ranks in the top 5 in North America by total wagers. As Ontario’s regulated market reaches its second anniversary, the numbers reflect both the popularity of the sports offered and the increasing trust in the regulated platforms that ensure player safety and security.
Basketball Dominates, But Diversity Drives Growth
While basketball betting takes the top spot in overall wagers, the landscape of Ontario’s sports betting market remains diverse, with other major sports like football (15%), hockey (11%), and baseball (11%) following closely behind.
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However, the market doesn’t stop there. Ontario’s online sportsbooks cater to a wide range of interests, offering over 60 sports for bettors to engage with, from mainstream games like soccer and tennis to niche options such as curling, sumo wrestling, and even eSports.
This broad selection of sports reflects Ontario’s commitment to creating a dynamic, inclusive market where bettors can explore various betting opportunities. The diversity in options ensures that there’s something for everyone, regardless of their sport of choice.
The Growth of Ontario’s iGaming Market
Ontario’s burgeoning sports betting market is a testament to the province’s growing influence in the global iGaming sector. In just two years since the market opened to competition, 27 operators have entered the space, offering sportsbooks that attract a diverse pool of players. In addition to basketball, sports like soccer (10%), tennis (7%), and cricket (4%) continue to attract significant interest from Ontarians.
As the sixth-largest iGaming market globally by gross gaming revenue, Ontario has outpaced other large markets, including Michigan and New York. This impressive rise was also recognized internationally when iGaming Ontario was named 2023’s Regulatory Initiative of the Year by Vixio, a global regulatory intelligence company. This achievement highlights Ontario’s commitment to creating a safe, competitive, and consumer-friendly online gaming environment.
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A Look Ahead: What’s Next for Ontario’s Sports Bettors?
With basketball leading the charge in the betting stakes, the future of Ontario’s iGaming market looks bright. As the province continues to expand its offerings, industry leaders and stakeholders are keen to deepen their understanding of local player preferences to create an even more tailored experience.
Martha Otton, Executive Director of iGaming Ontario, shared her optimism for the future: “We are starting to see a clearer picture of the Ontario player landscape, and I’m looking forward to working with our operators to better understand Ontario players’ interests and build on this success in the coming years.”
Ontario’s iGaming market shows no signs of slowing down. With its competitive environment, diverse sports offerings, and a robust regulatory framework in place, the province is set to continue attracting both players and operators alike.
As the market matures, it is clear that sports betting in Ontario will continue to thrive, with basketball remaining a key player in the race. Ontario’s commitment to a safe and regulated gaming environment, alongside the appeal of its varied sports offerings, ensures the province’s position at the forefront of the iGaming world.
