WynnBET Deal Adds To Sports Betting Partnerships in Michigan

Football is regularly one of the most bet on sports across the country. From state to state, the sport consistently takes in the highest handles each fall and through the winter. Football’s betting popularity is why it comes as no surprise NFL teams have brokered betting partnerships with the sportsbooks operating in their states.

When retail sports betting launched in Michigan and expanded MI gambling options, it didn’t take long for the state's professional sports teams to start reaching deals with operators. The Detroit Lions announced BetMGM as their first betting partner in September.

BetMGM MI Sportsbook became an official sports betting partner, giving Detroit fans their first exposure to deal between a sports betting operator and a professional team. BetMGM branding was featured throughout Ford Field for the 2023-21 season, in addition to the promotions and MGM Grand Tunnel Club that was also introduced.

"The Detroit Lions historic relationship with BetMGM has been years in the making and we're proud to announce details of our official partnership," Detroit Lions Team President Rod Wood said at the time. "We're continuously seeking new ways to entertain and involve our fans which is especially important during such unusual times; this partnership with BetMGM will provide additional and exciting opportunities to engage our fans."

The BetMGM-Lions partnership made sense for MI sports betting. BetMGM already had a large presence in Detroit thanks to the BetMGM Sports Lounge at the MI land-based casino, MGM Grand Detroit. It was a sensible decision for both popular brands to reach a deal. BetMGM received the endorsement of an NFL team, while the Lions were able to benefit from one of the top gaming companies in the state.

“We are honored to be the first sports betting partner of the Lions and to offer their fans access to a variety of best-in-class promotions and perks only available on BetMGM,” BetMGM’s Chief Marketing Officer Matt Prevost said.

Lions Add WynnBET

On Thursday, the Lions announced a second sports betting deal with WynnBET. The partnership with WynnBET is similar to the BetMGM agreement, with WynnBET branding to be featured throughout Ford Field , in addition to the Lions' digital and social media channels. WynnBET will also have a WynnBET Sports Bar at Ford Field which will open this season for fans over the age of 21.

Could the Lions Add Another Partnership?

It will be interesting to see if the Lions decide to enter into an agreement with another sportsbook operator.

The Denver Broncos have deals with FanDuel, BetMGM and BetFred, making them one of the few teams in the league to have three sports betting partnerships.

There certainly is enough interest in the state from other sportsbook operators that may be interested in an agreement with the Lions. FanDuel MI Sportsbook and DraftKings MI Sportsbook have already reached deals with the Detroit Pistons.

FanDuel is also partnered with the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers, while PointsBet MI has deals with the Tigers, Red Wings and Pistons.