NESN’s Sam Panayotovich Says MA Sports Betting, Fans A Perfect Match
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Ever since Sam Panayotovich relocated to Massachusetts, he has been regularly embarking on 90-minute drives in both directions to visit Mohgean Sun casino in Connecticut and indulge in sports betting.
The host of NESN’s “Ultimate Betting Show” can now reduce his travel distance, as his new home has become a legalized online sports betting state.
Panayotovich expressed to Play MA on Friday that his life entails a three-hour commute just to place a bet that likely won’t be successful. He further shared the extent of efforts made to ensure accuracy in obtaining the correct number.
“Now, there’s no need for me to hop into my car; I can conveniently place bets right from the comfort of my own couch! What a time to be alive.”
He is aware that he is not alone.
Panayotovich has made a career in sports betting media
Panayotovich has kept his eye on days like Friday for a long time, especially with the Massachusetts sports betting retail launch scheduled for January 31.
Panayotovich, a born-and-raised Chicagoan, began handicapping games for his father’s friends during his teenage years, and has since dedicated his life to this field. The recent nationwide trend towards legalization opened up a unique opportunity for his expertise, leading him on a journey from his hometown to VSiN in Las Vegas, and eventually to the Bay State in 2020.
In May 2022, NESN, the Boston sports network that broadcasts Red Sox and Bruins games, introduced the “Ultimate Betting Show.” Travis Thomas and Claudia Bellofatto joined Panayotovich as hosts for the show. Additionally, the crew collaborates with FanDuel for a sponsored betting segment during the network’s pre-game shows for Bruins and upcoming Red Sox games.
“The emergence of legal books in Massachusetts is a significant development,” stated Panayotovich, emphasizing the increasing presence of these books. “With the advent of mobile platforms, it is highly likely that the influx of such content into the state will continue to grow.”
Panayotovich: Make Massachusetts sportsbooks sweat with bonus bets
The “Ultimate Betting Show” offers valuable insights to the nation’s avid sports enthusiasts, guiding them into an exciting realm of fandom.
Panayotovich wasted no time and enrolled in four out of the six live online sportsbooks in MA by Friday afternoon. He eagerly awaited information about the promotional offers for signing up in MA from the remaining two sportsbooks. Panayotovich was impressed by the generous $200 pre-launch bonus bets offer from BetMGM Sportsbook MA and observed that DraftKings and FanDuel were offering less due to their market dominance.
“That’s them,” stated Panayotovich (@spshoot), comparing it to the rivalry between Coke and Pepsi.
Panayotovich suggests utilizing the four $50 BetMGM bonus bets on higher-risk options to maximize potential earnings. He advises, “If they’re generous enough to offer you free funds, make sure to keep them on their toes.”
Chicago native has seen Boston sports fever up close
Panayotovich revealed that Massachusetts residents may find it astonishing to discover the significant number of their acquaintances who engage in sports betting. The abundance of sports enthusiasts provides a wide pool for bookmakers to cater to. As per a recent survey conducted by Play MA, a striking 51% of Massachusetts sports fans were already involved in betting prior to Friday.
Panayotovich commented that it is impossible to overlook the renowned Boston sports fandom.
During the recent season, he witnessed the Chicago Bears compete against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Following an interception by Pats QB Mac Jones, the New England fans wasted no time in rallying for backup Bailey Zappe.
According to Panayotovich, the fans are not only passionate about their teams but also highly opinionated. They can support and criticize their teams. For instance, if they are dissatisfied with the matchup, they might say, “Oh, this team is terrible.”
“This is the ideal match due to the passionate nature of these fans, and I say this with the highest regard. Their opinions shape the wager, and there is an abundance of opinions in this particular state.”
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