Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Nebraska?

Retail sports betting has finally arrived in Nebraska, almost three years after the state’s sports betting bill, LB 561, was passed in 2021. The implementation faced significant delays due to the need for regulatory adjustments and the development of operational guidelines. The bill does include online betting, which would require further legislation in Nebraska.

Nebraska Sports Betting Overview

What Is The Current Sports Betting Landscape In Nebraska?

With the passage of LB 561 by voters in a referendum, retail sports betting became legal in Nebraska back in 2021. The need to establish a regulatory framework caused a significant delay in the start of the sports betting industry, as lawmakers took their time to establish the sector. Since 2023, there have been two in-person sports betting locations in the state: WarHorse Casino Lincoln and the Grand Island Casino Resort. There are plans for a second WarHorse sportsbook too, in a new facility in Omaha, slated to launch in 2024. 

Online betting is a different story. LB 561 did not allow for online gambling and any movements towards legal online sportsbooks in Nebraska would require new legislation or approval at the ballot box. Furthermore, there has so far been little indication of an appetite for a new sports betting bill from lawmakers. 

Check out our state by state guides to legal US sports betting if you’re interested in other parts of the country.

When Is Sports Betting Expected To Launch in Nebraska?

The rollout of in-person sports betting in Nebraska has already begun. However, for online sports betting, the timeline remains uncertain. Given the current legislative climate and lack of interest in pushing for statewide online sports betting, forecasts suggest that 2025 could be the earliest when advocates might successfully place the issue on the ballot for a public vote. Until then, Nebraskans will have to utilize the available in-person betting options at casinos.

The good news is that the voting public in Nebraska have already proved to be amenable to sports betting, at least at retail locations. As in-person sports betting grows in the state, it is likely only a matter of time before the expansion to include online gambling gains traction. 

Nebraska Sports Betting Updates

Here's a chronological recap of key events impacting the state's sports betting landscape, highlighting the journey towards potentially legalizing online sports betting:

• April 2024 - A coalition of sportsbooks, including DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM, declined to support a ballot initiative to bring online gambling to the state. A poll suggests 57% of public support for the measure, which the coalition decides is not high enough to justify financial support. Online sports betting is likely off the table in 2024. 

• Jan. 4, 2024 - A study for the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission finds no need for new horse racing tracks.

• December 2023 - Nebraska casinos set a new monthly gaming tax record, with $1.7 million.

• Nov. 6, 2023 - Groundbreaking for Fonner Park in Grand Island, a new casino with retail sports betting, expected to open in 2025.

• Oct. 25, 2023 - Approval for a second WarHorse Casino in Omaha, which will be the third retail sports betting location in Nebraska.

• Sept. 21, 2023 - WarHorse Casino Lincoln celebrates its first anniversary.

• Aug. 23, 2023 - Grand Island Casino Resort opens, offering sports betting as the second location in the state.

• June 22, 2023 - In-person sports betting launches at WarHorse Casino.

• May 27, 2021 - Governor Pete Ricketts signs LB 561, legalizing in-person betting at retail gambling facilities and racetracks.

• March 18, 2021 - Bill LB 561 passes in the Nebraska state legislature, setting rules for retail sports betting.

What Sportsbooks Are Expected To Launch in Nebraska?

When online sports betting does eventually make it to Nebraska, it is likely that the top US sportsbooks would aim to launch in the state. Check out our favorites below. 

1. FanDuel Sportsbook

Best for: Great Mobile app

You can find FanDuel Sportsbook in almost all states where online sports betting is legalized, so it won't be a surprised to see them once Nebraska legalizes online sports betting.

FanDuel Sportsbook stands out among the rest, not only because it's a industry giant, but also because it has one of the best sports betting apps in the industry. This is one of the main reasons why it's one of my favorites. What is the point of online sports betting if you can do it on the go.

The app is super user-friendly, and I've found navigating through sports and placing bets to be a breeze. It’s available for both iOS and Android and is currently the best rated US sportsbook app on the App Store, with a near perfect 4.9 score.

What really keeps me coming back to FanDuel are the ongoing offers. There's always something new to take advantage of, from odds boosts to parlay bonuses, which makes each bet feel a bit more exciting. However, if you're looking for a complex rewards program, you might find FanDuel's a bit too basic.

Pros

• Frequent ongoing offers

• Highly favored across the U.S.

• Superior mobile app experience

Cons

• Basic rewards scheme

• Phone support could be better

Find more information here in our FanDuel review.

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins

• App rating: 4.9/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

2. DraftKings Sportsbook

Best for: User-friendly Interface

Wherever you find FanDuel, you'll find DraftKings close by. These two go hand in hand and are the two biggest sportsbook operators in the US. They wouldn't miss out on the Nebraska sports betting launch, when it happens.

DraftKings Sportsbook really shines for its user-friendly interface and it's my go-to when I'm looking for a platform that doesn't make me scratch my head trying to figure out where everything is. If navigating a betting site often feels more challenging than the bets themselves, DraftKings could be the breath of fresh air you need. 

I love the low $5 minimum deposit at DraftKings, making it accessible for those of us not looking to bet big right away. The mobile experience is smooth too, which I appreciate since I do most of my betting on my phone. 

The one thing I wish DraftKings had is a live streaming feature. Being able to watch the games you've bet on directly in the app would be a game-changer, especially since the live betting markets available are really deep and varied. 

With their sign-up offer worth $150 in bonus bets based on a first bet of just $5, it's hard not to give DraftKings a try. It's a welcoming platform for newcomers and seasoned bettors alike.

Pros

• Minimum deposit of just $5

• Smooth mobile betting experience

• Well-rounded and extensive platform

Cons

• Lacks live streaming feature

• Automated live chat support could be improved

Check our DraftKings review for more info. 

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign up offer:

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

3. BetMGM

Best for: Perks at MGM Resorts

BetMGM Sportsbook is where I head when I'm not just thinking about the bets I'm placing today but also the rewards I can earn down the line. If you're like me and appreciate a good rewards program that extends beyond the digital realm, BetMGM's approach is pretty unbeatable. 

Every time you place a bet on BetMGM, or spend money at in-person MGM resorts, you earn reward points. These can be cashed in for sports betting benefits, but also for perks at MGM casinos and hotels. MGM Reward members also qualify for discounts and special offers at resorts that the general public don’t get access to. 

Another thing that impresses me about BetMGM is the sheer breadth of betting options. No matter what sport you’re interested in, you’ll find something to bet on. Pair that with their top-tier loyalty program, where every bet gets me closer to rewards I can use for a real-world escape, and it's a winning combination.

BetMGM Sportsbook stands out as a solid choice, especially for bettors who value long-term rewards just as much as the excitement of the bet itself.

Pros:

• Wide array of betting options

• Elite loyalty program

• Rewards usable at real-world resorts

Cons:

• Could offer more regular promotions

• Lacks a feature to track betting history

Take a look at our BetMGM review for more details.

• WSN rating: 4.4/5

• Sign up offer: $1,500 in Bonus Bets back

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

4.Caesars Sportsbook

Best for: Exceptional Rewards Program

Caesars Sportsbook is another one of my go-to’s for an exceptional rewards program. If you're someone who values a loyalty program that rewards every bet, big or small, Caesars has set the bar high. 

Like at BetMGM, Caesars Rewards ecompasses the wider brand so that you get rewarded every time you spend money on any Caesars product. It’s a no-brainer if you’re a regular at any of the dozens of Caesars locations around the country. 

The sportsbook doesn't skimp on variety either, offering an expansive range of sports and bet types to choose from. Whether you're into the major leagues or niche sports, Caesars has got you covered. And it's not just the depth of their betting markets that impresses; the visually appealing interface makes navigating through the bets smooth and fun. 

Caesars’ sign up offer includes a second chance bet worth up $1,000 in site credit if your first bet loses, plus 1,000 Tier and Reward Credits to kick you off on Caesars Rewards. The platform's loyalty program, combined with its extensive betting options and user-friendly design, makes Caesars a standout choice for bettors looking for a fun and rewarding sports betting experience.

Pros:

• Great range of bets

• Leading loyalty program in the industry

• Visually appealing interface

Cons:

• Limited regular promotions

• Automated live chat could be improved

Here is our detailed Caesars Sportsbook review for more information.

• WSN rating: 4.3/5

• Sign up offer: Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets

• App rating: 4.6/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)

5. ESPN Bet

Best for: Integration with ESPN Content

I was really intrigued to see ESPN Bet launch in 2023 and see how it combined a sports betting platform with its bread-and-butter sports coverage. If you're anything like me and enjoy having insightful sports content at your fingertips while you plan your bets, then ESPN Bet's seamless blend of sports betting and rich ESPN content is something you'll definitely appreciate. 

The reputable ESPN brand brings a level of trust and recognition that's hard to match, complemented by daily odds boosts that add an extra layer of excitement to your bets. The user experience for live streaming and live betting is a standout feature, allowing you to watch the action unfold live and adjust your bets accordingly. It's features like these that make ESPN Bet not just a betting platform but a comprehensive sports entertainment hub.

Although the mobile app experience is smooth and intuitive, the desktop interface could benefit from some improvements. It feels a bit clunky compared to its mobile counterpart, and the site's optimization for mobile access isn't as seamless as I'd like, with no browser access via mobile. This can be a bit of a letdown if you're switching between devices.

Despite the desktop interface needing a bit of polish, ESPN Bet's unique integration with ESPN content, combined with its reputable brand and engaging features like live streaming, make it a compelling choice for sports betting fans looking for depth and quality in their betting.

Pros:

• Reputable and recognized brand

• Offers daily odds boosts

• Supports live streaming and betting

Cons:

• The desktop interface could use enhancement

• Desktop site not optimized for mobile access

Head over to our in-depth ESPN Bet review for more information.

• Sign up offer: $100 in Bonus Bets

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

Nearby Betting States

States where sports betting is legal are all around Nebraska, giving its citizens and visitors options. To the west, Colorado boasts a vibrant online and retail sports betting industry that has been legal since May 2020, with a wide array of sportsbooks. 

To the east, Iowa, an early adopter of sports betting since August 2019, provides both online and in-person betting options with a well-established market. Additionally, south of Nebraska, Kansas entered the legal sports betting market in September 2022, further expanding the choices for Nebraskans. 

These neighboring states present convenient opportunities for engaging in legal sports wagering, including the benefits of online betting platforms in Colorado, Iowa, and Kansas.

What Sports Will You Be Able To Bet On in Nebraska?

NFL

While Nebraska doesn’t have its own NFL team, the state's sports fans often root for teams from neighboring states, including the Kansas City Chiefs and the Denver Broncos. The Chiefs, in particular, with their exciting style and recent Super Bowl wins, have a significant following in Nebraska. Similarly, the Denver Broncos, with a rich history and multiple Super Bowl victories, also capture the interest of many Nebraskan fans. The NFL is the most popular sport at US sportsbooks, and the Super Bowl is the most wagered-on event every year. This also means that there is a steady stream of NFL promotions and special offers throughout the season and playoffs. Discover more betting opportunities on our NFL promotions page.

NBA

Nebraska is without an NBA team, but basketball fans in the state tend to follow teams like the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves, given their geographical proximity. The Denver Nuggets, who picked up their first championship in 2023, led by Nikola Jokic, have been a favorite to win the NBA Championship at US sportsbooks in recent years. You can expect tons of interesting bets and promos on the NBA, including special props around superstar players like Jokic and LeBron James. Learn more about how you can participate in the action on our NBA promotions page.

MLB

For MLB followers in Nebraska, the Kansas City Royals and the Colorado Rockies are the go-to teams, given the absence of a local team. The Kansas City Royals, with their 2015 World Series Championship, hold a special place in the hearts of many in the region. Similarly, the Colorado Rockies, known for their picturesque ballpark, draw attention from baseball fans in Nebraska. Explore the diverse betting options on our MLB promotions page.

NHL

Nebraska does not have an NHL team, but hockey fans often support the recent Stanley Cup winners, the Colorado Avalanche, due to the state's border with Colorado. Betting on NHL games allows fans to engage with the sport on a deeper level, offering bets on everything from futures on the Stanley Cup winner to props on individual player performances. Dive deeper into the world of NHL betting on our NHL promotions page.

UFC

The UFC has been a quiet revelation at US sportsbooks over the last few years, attracting enough bets to compete with the traditional major leagues in terms of popularity. Colorado has a select few homegrown fighters with the possibility of growing down the line in the sport, such as Drew Dober, with only 1 loss on his record and 17 victories. With events featuring fighters from around the globe, UFC betting in Nebraska offers a unique opportunity to engage with the sport. Discover how to get in on the UFC betting action on our UFC promotions page.

What Wager Types Will Be Available in Nebraska?

Moneyline

A moneyline wager involves picking the team you believe will win a game outright, regardless of the score or margin of victory. It is presented with odds for both the favorite (expected to win) and the underdog, with the payouts reflecting the respective likelihood of winning. Here’s an example of how it can look:

• Kansas City Chiefs (-200)

• Denver Broncos (+170)

With understanding moneyline odds, it’s easiest to think in terms of $100. Here, the Chiefs are the favorites so that you would need to bet $200 in order to win $100, for a total payout of $300. The Broncos are the underdogs, and a $100 would win $170, for a payout of $270. 

Point Spreads

Point spread betting adds a handicap to the favored team, requiring them to win by a certain number of points for the bet to pay out. Conversely, you can win a bet on the underdog if they lose by fewer than the specified number of points to cover the spread or win outright. For instance, a college football game involving the Nebraska Cornhuskers might be advertised as:

• Nebraska Cornhuskers -7.5 (-110)

• Iowa Hawkeyes +7.5 (-110)

Here, to win a bet on the Hawkeyes, they just need to avoid losing by 8 points or more. Any other is enough to win your bet. If you bet on the Cornhuskers, they would need to win by 8 points or more. The odds for point spreads are normally around -110 for each side. 

Totals (Over/Under)

Totals betting, also known as over/under, involves wagering on the combined score of both teams in a game, deciding whether it will be over or under a specified amount. It might look like this:

Denver Nuggets vs. Utah Jazz

• Over 215.5 points (-110)

• Under 215.5 points (-110)

Like betting on the spread, the odds are usually around -110 for both. 

Futures

Futures bets are long-term wagers placed on events or outcomes that will be decided in the future, such as which team will win the championship. For example, Nebraska fans might be interested in MLB futures betting on the Kansas City Royals to win the World Series:

• Kansas City Royals to win the World Series: +2500

Futures bets normally have pretty attractive odds, especially when you place them early in the season, since there are a lot of variables that need to go your way to win. 

Prop Bets

Proposition bets, or prop bets, focus on individual player performances or specific game occurrences that don't directly influence the game's outcome. It allows you to get really specific with your betting, without even having to pick a winner. Examples of prop bets include betting on rushing yards in the NFL, layups in the NBA or goals in the NHL. Often, these can be split into player props (focusing on just one player’s performance) or team props (how the team performs as a whole).

Parlays

Parlays combine multiple bets into one wager, increasing the potential payout but requiring all selected bets to win. A parlay example for Nebraskan bettors might include betting on the Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, and Nebraska Cornhuskers to all win their weekend games, with the odds of each outcome multiplied together. Creating a successful parlay bet can be tricky, which is why we created a parlay betting guide.

Teasers

Teasers are similar to parlays but allow bettors to adjust point spreads or totals in their favor, reducing risk but also decreasing potential winnings. For instance, a Nebraskan bettor might adjust the spreads in games involving the Colorado Avalanche and the Kansas City Chiefs to create a more favorable combined bet.

Live Betting

Live betting allows bettors to place wagers on games already in progress, with odds that update in real-time based on the current action. For example, during a live NBA game featuring the Minnesota Timberwolves, Nebraska fans could bet on who will score the next point or which team will lead at halftime.

Expected Betting Restrictions in Nebraska?

Once online sports betting is fully operational in Nebraska, there will likely be restrictions on certain betting markets to align with both national trends and state-specific considerations:

• Politics: Betting on political outcomes, including elections, is not allowed in any U.S. state. Nebraska is expected to adhere to this standard and not permit wagers on political events.

• Entertainment Awards Ceremonies: Betting on the outcomes of popular entertainment events, such as the Oscars or Grammy Awards, often attracts attention. However, whether Nebraska will allow bets on these events depends on the specifics of future legislation within the state.

• eSports: At this stage, Nebraska's legislative framework for sports betting does not specifically mention eSports. This area could be addressed in future laws as the popularity of esports betting continues to rise globally.

• High School Sports: Similar to other states, Nebraska is expected to prohibit betting on high school sports events to protect the integrity of these amateur competitions and safeguard underage individuals.

• Nebraska College Sports: Betting on local college sports can vary widely across states, with some allowing it under certain conditions and others not at all. Currently, bettors in Nebraska can bet on college sports, but not prop bets on college athletes or on Nebraska-based teams playing in the state.

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Nebraska?

Yes, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) platforms are legal in Nebraska. Here’s a quick look at our favorites: 

1. DraftKings

Best For: Diverse Selection of Games

DraftKings stands out as an industry leader in the DFS market, offering a great $500 first deposit bonus to welcome new users. DraftKings is the most comprehensive DFS platform in the US, with the widest range of contests and sports available. You can dive into all kinds of contests against the general public, but you can also design your own private leagues with friends and even chat to them right on the platform, like a social media site. 

Claim your DK DFS offer today!

2. FanDuel

Best For: Newbie-Friendly Contests

FanDuel stands out with its user-friendly features, such as free play options and special contests designed for beginners, making it an ideal platform for those new to DFS. It’s nice to know you’re not jumping into games against ultra-experienced players, and FanDuel’s simple and fun platform also makes it easy for newbies. In addition to these features, the FanDuel DFS sign-up bonus is 100% deposit match, up to $100. Meaning you can easily double your initial investment.

Grab FanDuel's 100% deposit match.

3. OwnersBox

Best For: Generous Welcome Offer

The welcome offer available for new customers at OwnersBox Fantasy provides a compelling reason to explore this platform, offering a 100% deposit match up to $500. This means that when you make your first deposit, OwnersBox will match it with site credits, doubling your resources to participate in contests. OwnersBox has taken a more stripped down approach to its contests, focusing on simple weekly contests known as Lighting Lineups and SuperFlex which include picking suggestions provided by the software. It’s great if you want a simplified way to play, although it does have much fewer sports than DraftKings or FanDuel. 

Don't miss out on OwnersBox offer.

4. Sleeper

Best For: eSports

For a hyper-focused daily fantasy sports experience connected to football, basketball, and League of Legends, players choose Sleeper. The innovative platform has more than four million users and offers a unique format for DFS gaming. Members can access a comprehensive, flexible site with mobile and desktop gaming options. Players can participate in leagues plus create channels similar to Discord, chatting with friends and other sports fans on specific content. Take a look at Sleeper Picks and Daily Drafts as part of the high-quality content they offer. Promotions are also featured on the site, rewarding players with incentives for referring friends or opting into Protected Picks.

Don't sleep on this offer. Join Sleeper today!

Best Social Sportsbooks in Nebraska

With online sports betting still far away, social sportsbooks have emerged as an alternative. Check out the best social sportsbooks available in Nebraska.

1. Fliff Social Sportsbooks

Is Fliff legal in Nebraska? Yes, Fliff is legal in Nebraska.

Fliff is a social sportsbook that allows users to engage in sports betting using virtual currency instead of real money, making it a legal and entertaining option across states where traditional sports betting isn't allowed. You can find more details on how all of this works in our Fliff review.

Fliff uses two types of currency, both of which you can get for free: Fliff Coins, which cannot be redeemed for prizes and can be purchased if you run out of your free supply, and Fliff Cash, which can never be purchased but can be redeemed for cash prizes when you win it through the games.

The games at Fliff are inspired by sports bets, with contests that mimic moneylines, spreads and props. New users get a welcome bonus that matches their first purchase of up to 600,000 Fliff Coins, along with a free bonus of up to $100 in Fliff Cash.

Claim your Fliff 100% deposit match.

2. Sportzino Social Sportsbook

Is Sportzino legal in Nebraska? Yes, Sportzino is legal in Nebraska.

Sports picks and casino games await at Sportzino, a top-rated sweepstakes site featuring services for Nebraska natives and visitors. The brand is available via mobile and desktop platforms, offering a streamlined experience. Explore a wide range of sports options, with top leagues covered, including NBA, MLB, NFL, UEFA Champions League, Premier League, and more. The site focuses on US-based and international sports for more extensive access to predictions. Post live in-game predictions, find moneylines, point totals, and spreads on offer for your pick needs. 

Along with sports picks, Sportzino also includes over 300 casino games. Easily scroll through sports games, slots, and more. The site includes quality-themed slots with options for Hold & Win, Megaways, and Jackpot titles. The two platforms are connected, making it easy for players to switch between sports and casino games. Use the free Gold and Sweeps Coins provided on signup to place sports picks or play slots at no cost! Find out more in our detailed Sportzino review.

Join Sportzino today!

Sports Teams in Nebraska

Although there are no major league teams in the state, Nebraska's sports fans rally around a variety of professional and semi-professional teams:

• The Lincoln Saltdogs represent Nebraska's enthusiasm for baseball, competing in the American Association minor league.

• The Omaha Storm Chasers, a Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, bring high-quality baseball to Omaha.

• Union Omaha competes in USL League One, reflecting soccer’s growing popularity.

• The Omaha Beef delivers exciting indoor football action as part of the Champions Indoor Football League.

• Hockey fans have the Omaha Lancers and the Tri-City Storm to cheer for, both teams competing in the USHL, highlighting Nebraska's vibrant hockey scene.

Why You Should Trust Us

Here at WSN.com, we’re a bunch of sports betting enthusiasts, just like you. Our team is made up of sports fans who’ve been in the betting world for years – talking about it, writing about it, and, of course, placing a few wagers ourselves. It's this passion and experience that let us dive deep into what makes a good betting site truly stand out.

We have personally spent many hours on every sportsbook that is featured on our site. We sign up, check out how easy it is to navigate, place some bets, see what the customer service is like, and test out the cash-out process. This way, we’re not just telling you what we think. We’re sharing what we found out from our firsthand experience testing all the platforms. This first hand approach is engraved in our rating process.

Our reviews and advice are unbiased and straightforward because we know that’s what helps you make the best decisions. Our goal is to make sure you’ve got all the info you need before deciding where to bet.

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Nebraska

In Nebraska, there is a lot of support for those facing gambling problems, with various organizations offering free, confidential help. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, here are some key resources:

• The Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling offers a confidential helpline available 24/7. You can call or text 1-833-BETOVER (1-833-238-6837) for support, or visit problemgambling.nebraska.gov for more resources.

• The Nebraska Council on Problem Gambling provides a helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) and email support via [email protected]. More information and resources can be found at www.necouncilpg.org.

Sportsbooks in Nebraska, similar to those in other jurisdictions, typically offer tools to help manage gambling behavior. These tools include setting deposit limits, loss limits, wagering limits, and session time limits. Additionally, reality checks and self-exclusion options are commonly available, allowing users to take a break from gambling or exclude themselves from the platform for a specific period.

These resources and tools are designed to foster responsible gambling and provide support to those who may experience problem gambling, ensuring that help is readily accessible.