Residents seeking to place bets often turn to offshore sportsbooks, which provide a wide array of options despite the state’s lack of a legal framework.

The Texas Sports Betting Alliance, a powerful lobbying group of billionaires and professional sports teams, continues to push for legalization, making this a hot topic for the foreseeable future.

Top Sports Wagering Platforms in Texas

After careful analysis, several offshore sportsbooks stand out as the best options for Texas residents. These platforms offer competitive odds, generous bonuses, and a variety of sports to bet on:

BetOnline: Best overall sportsbook in Texas.
EveryGame: Best for parlay and sports wagering bonuses.
BetNow: Offers rebates on both sportsbook and racebook betting.
Bovada: Known for its improved user interface.
Sportsbetting. ag: Notable for sports-specific bet insurance offers.
Lucky Block: Best overall crypto sportsbook.
Jazz Sports: Offers a reload bonus on every deposit.
BetUS: Features an affiliated TV station and news site.
MyBookie: Great VIP scheme with cashback options.
Mega Dice: Rapid payouts and anonymous sign-up processes.

MUST READ: Texas Sports Betting Apps: Everything You Need to Know

Criteria for Evaluating Wagering Platforms in Texas

To evaluate sportsbooks effectively, several fundamental characteristics are considered:

Licensing and Oversight

Texas does not currently have a regulatory body for online sports wagering.

Thus, it’s crucial to choose offshore sportsbooks licensed by reputable authorities like the Malta Gaming Authority or the Curacao Gaming Control Board.

Safety & Security

Only sportsbooks that utilize top-tier encryption technology to protect personal and financial data are recommended.

Transparency in data usage is also a must.

Promotions & Offers

Attractive welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for existing customers are vital for player retention.

Each sportsbook’s terms and conditions are analyzed to ensure fairness.

Loyalty & Rewards Program

Competitive VIP and loyalty schemes enhance the betting experience and encourage continued play.

Customer Service

Adequate customer support, including multiple contact methods, is essential for resolving issues quickly.

Payment Methods

Various deposit and withdrawal options, including traditional and cryptocurrency methods, are important for convenience and security.

Texas Wagering Platforms Comparison

Texas Wagering Site	Welcome Bonus	No. Sports	Deposit Methods	Min. Deposit	Max. Withdrawal	Withdrawal Times
BetOnline	50% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000	35+	Wire Transfer, Money Order, P2P, Credit/Debit Cards, BTC, AVAX, BNB, BCH, ADA, DOGE, ETH, LTC, MATIC, XRP, SHIB	$20	$100,000	Instant to 10 days
Everygame	100% up to $250 (over first three deposits)	20+	Credit/Debit Cards, payz, Paysafe, eZeeWallet, BTC, BCH, LTC, LBTC	$5	$3,000 a week	At least 48 hours
BetNow	150% Welcome Bonus Up To $225	15	Credit/Debit Cards, P2P, BTC, BCH	$10	$15,000 a month	Within 24 hours
Bovada	50% up to $250	30+	Visa/Mastercard, BTC, BCH, USDT, ETH, LTC	$5	$3,000	Instant to 10 days
Sportsbetting.ag	50% up to $1,000	20+	Wire Transfer, Money Order, P2P, Credit/Debit Cards, BTC, AVAX, BNB, BCH, ADA, DOGE, ETH, LTC, MATIC, XRP, SHIB	$20	$100,000	Between 1 and 48 hours
Lucky Block	200% up to $10,000 + 50 free spins	30+	Crypto Dependent	$5,000	Instant
Jazz Sports	50% up to $1,000	15+	DOLARDOLAR, P2P, Debit/Credit Cards, BTC, BCH, LTC, ETH, DASH	$50	$5,000	Same day before 11 am
BetUS	100% up to $2,500	20+	Mastercard, Visa, BTC	$10	$2,499	Within 24 hours
MyBookie	50% up to $1,000	25+	Mastercard, Visa, P2P, BTC, LTC, BCH, ETH, BNB, SOL, ADA, USDT, SHIB, DOGE	$20	$10,000	Within 48 hours
MegaDice	200% up to $10,000 + 50 free spins	30+	Crypto Dependent	$5,000	Instant

Legislative Efforts for Legalization

Recent Proposals

In 2023, attempts to legalize sports wagering in Texas culminated in a failed referendum. However, legislative efforts are ongoing, with notable bills introduced:

Senate Joint Resolution 17: Sponsored by Senator Carol Alvarado, this bill emphasizes economic development and aims to create the Texas Gaming Commission.
House Joint Resolution 102: Proposes an amendment to the constitution to facilitate sports wagering regulations.
House Bill 1942: Proposed by Jeff Leach, this bill outlines sports wagering regulations, licensing, and tax structures.
Senate Bill 715: A companion bill to HB 1942.

The next opportunity for legalization may arise in 2025 when the Texas Legislature convenes again.

Current Wagering Options and Neighboring States

Land-Based Options

Currently, Texas has no land-based sports wagering options.

The three tribal casinos located along the Mexican border do not offer sportsbooks, making online wagering at offshore casinos the only viable option.

Neighboring States Overview

Oklahoma: Legal at tribal locations; online gambling illegal.
New Mexico: Sports and casino wagering available at tribal locations.
Louisiana: Sports and casino wagering is legal, but online gambling is not permitted.
Arkansas: Similar to Louisiana, offering sports and casino wagering.

Legal Forms of Gambling in Texas

Despite restrictions on sports wagering, several gambling forms are legal in Texas:

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

Legalized in 2019, DFS is recognized as a game of skill, allowing players to participate in fantasy leagues.

Poker

Over 60 dedicated poker rooms operate legally in Texas, enabling players to engage in high-stakes games.

Horse Racing

Pari-mutuel wagering is permitted at three racetracks: Sam Houston Race Park, Lone Star Park, and Retama Park.

Native Casinos

Three Native American casinos operate in Texas, offering limited gambling options.

Lottery

The Texas Lottery is active, with significant prizes awarded twice weekly.

Popular Sports for Wagering in Texas

Texas is a sports-rich state with diverse interests. The most popular sports for wagering include:

Football: Both NFL and NCAA football see substantial wagering activity, with college stadiums often surpassing professional ones in capacity.
NBA: High-scoring games create various betting opportunities, including player prop bets.
MLB: Baseball is a staple for Texans, with numerous betting markets available.
Soccer: Global interest in soccer means a wide variety of wagering options.
Horse Racing: Integral to Texas culture, horse racing wagering remains popular.

Local Teams to Wager On

Texas boasts numerous professional and college sports teams:

NFL: Dallas Cowboys
NBA: Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets
NCAA: Texas Longhorns, Texas A&M Aggies, Texas Tech Raiders
MLB: Houston Astros, Texas Rangers
NHL: Dallas Stars
MLS: Houston Dynamo

Major Wagering Events

Significant events for sports wagering, often occurring outside Texas, include:

Super Bowl: A highlight for football betting.
March Madness: A massive event for NCAA basketball.
Rivalry Games: Notable rivalries such as the Lone Star Showdown and the Red River Showdown attract significant attention.

Deposit Methods at Texas Sportsbooks

Texas sportsbooks offer a range of payment options:

Traditional Payment Methods

Debit/Credit Cards
Bank Transfers
Wire Transfers
Checks

Third-Party Payment Services

PayPal
Skrill
Google Pay
Apple Pay

Cryptocurrency

Bitcoin
Ethereum
USDT
Dogecoin

Types of Wagering Bonuses

Texas sportsbooks provide various promotions:

Welcome Bonuses: Offered to new players.
Reload Bonuses: Available on subsequent deposits.
Free Bets: Allow wagering without using personal funds.
Cashback Bonuses: Provide

Conclusion

The landscape of sports wagering in Texas presents both opportunities and challenges.

While the current lack of regulation limits local options, the push for legalization continues to gain momentum.

With powerful lobbying groups advocating for change and neighbouring states already benefiting from legalized wagering, Texas may soon see a transformation in its sports betting scene.

Residents should stay informed and engaged in the ongoing legislative efforts as they shape the future of sports wagering in the state.

People May Ask

1. Is sports betting legal in Texas?

Currently, sports betting is illegal in Texas, but residents can use offshore sportsbooks to place bets.

2. What are the best offshore sportsbooks for Texas residents?

Top options include BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie, each offering various features and promotions.

3. How can I deposit money at Texas sportsbooks?

Depositing methods vary by sportsbook but typically include credit cards, bank transfers, and cryptocurrencies.

4. What types of bets can I place on Texas sports?

You can bet on various sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and more, with options for money lines, spreads, and prop bets.

Click here to learn more.

Current Status of Sports Wagering in Texas