Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Oklahoma?

Despite Oklahoma's rich sports culture, sports betting remains illegal within the state. As neighboring regions gradually embrace sports betting, Oklahoma sports fans still await legislative changes that might open up opportunities for legal wagering within state boundaries. For now, visiting nearby legal states remains the best option for legal online sports betting in the Sooner State.

Oklahoma Sports Betting Overview

What Is the Current Sports Betting Landscape in Oklahoma? 

As of now, sports betting remains illegal in Oklahoma, despite the state's expansive casino industry and a favorable attitude towards games of chance. With over 100 tribal casinos and three racetracks, Oklahoma is well-positioned to adopt sports betting if legislation permits. The state has previously explored pool-style betting legislation, which signals a potential openness to expanding gambling options in the future.

Efforts to legalize sports betting gained some traction with a bill considered before the US Supreme Court's 2018 decision to repeal the federal ban on sports betting. However, this bill did not pass, and no new legislation has been successfully enacted since. The ongoing discussions and proposed bills reflect a growing interest in legal sports betting, suggesting that changes could come in the short to medium term.

When Is Sports Betting Expected To Launch in Oklahoma?

The timeline for the launch of sports betting in Oklahoma remains uncertain. Although there is noticeable interest from certain lawmakers, significant hurdles continue to impede progress. Representative Ken Luttrell's HB 1027, which initially showed promise, advanced through the House on March 21, 2023, but eventually stalled in the Senate. The failure was largely attributed to unresolved disagreements between Governor Kevin Stitt and the state’s gaming tribes, which are crucial stakeholders in any sports betting framework.

As of the 2024 legislative session, there are two active sports betting bills: the carryover HB 1027 and a new proposal, SB 1434, introduced by Senator Casey Murdock. Senator Murdock's bill seeks to enact Governor Stitt's prior sports betting plan. These ongoing efforts highlight a continued push toward legalization, though the exact timeline for when sports betting might be officially launched in Oklahoma is still unclear, pending legislative consensus and agreement among key parties.

Oklahoma Sports Betting Updates

• Feb 5. 2024: SB 1434, introduced by Senator Casey Murdock, is scheduled for its first reading. This bill aims to regulate sports pool wagering through the Oklahoma Lottery Commission​​.

• Dec 26. 2023: Senator Casey Murdock submits Senate Bill 1434 to propose sports pool wagering regulated by the Oklahoma Lottery Commission​.

• Nov 8. 2023: Governor Kevin Stitt announces a comprehensive proposal for legalizing retail and mobile sports betting to be prioritized in 2024. This proposal aims to enable in-person bets at tribal-operated sites and online bets through state-licensed sportsbooks​​.

• Nov 2. 2023: Governor Stitt reveals plans to introduce legislation in 2024 aimed at establishing both in-person and online sports betting in Oklahoma, emphasizing a robust framework that integrates tribal operations​ ​.

• July 21. 2023: Local news outlets report on the need for improved relations between Governor Stitt and tribal leaders to move forward with regulated sports betting in the state.

• April 13. 2023: House Bill 1027, intended to allow both in-person and mobile sports betting, fails to advance to the Senate by the deadline. This bill would have established a tiered tax structure on tribal sports betting revenues​​.

• Jan 18. 2022: Representative Ken Luttrell introduces House Bill 3008, aiming to legalize in-person sports betting at tribal casinos without provisions for mobile betting. The bill does not receive the necessary support and fails to progress​​.

• Aug 20. 2020: Governor Kevin Stitt attempts to include sports betting in compacts with the Kialegee Tribal Town and United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians, but these compacts are later invalidated by the Oklahoma Supreme Court in 2021​​.

• Sept 4. 2018: Governor Mary Fallin signs House Bill 3375, initially intended to include sports betting at tribal casinos. However, references to sports betting are removed before the bill is passed​​.

• May 14. 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court overturns the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), prompting Oklahoma lawmakers to explore potential sports betting regulations​​.

What Sportsbooks Are Expected To Launch in Oklahoma?

If legal sports betting does finally make it to Oklahoma, it is expected that all the major and best US sportsbooks will look to launch in the state. Here are our favorites: 

1. FanDuel Sportsbook

Best for: Mobile App

I've always appreciated FanDuel Sportsbook for its user-friendly experience, especially when it comes to using their mobile app. If you're someone who enjoys placing bets quickly and efficiently from your phone, FanDuel's app makes it incredibly easy. 

What really makes FanDuel ideal for me is the mobile app's optimization. It's clearly one of the best sports betting app on the market, offering a top-notch experience that's hard to beat if you prefer betting on the go. This is a huge plus in modern gambling, where more and more people are using their phones, especially for live betting.

Another aspect I like about FanDuel is the frequency of their promotional offers, which keeps things exciting and potentially more lucrative. There are pretty much always a handful of offers running at any time, spanning a variety of sports depending on what is popular at any given moment. Odds boosts, parlay bonuses, bonus bets—it’s a great selection. However, it's not all perfect—the loyalty rewards program is pretty basic, which can be a bit of a letdown if you're someone who values long-term perks. 

Find more in-depth information here in our FanDuel Sportsbook review.

• WSN rating: 4.5/5

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

• App rating: 4.9/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

2. DraftKings Sportsbook

Best for: User Friendly

I've been using DraftKings Sportsbook for years and I must say, its platform is exceptionally clean and comprehensive. If you're someone who values a straightforward and clutter-free betting experience, DraftKings definitely delivers. 

What sets DraftKings apart for me is how well-rounded and feature-rich the platform is. They've done a great job integrating a wide range of betting options that suit all levels of bettors, from beginners to seasoned experts. Placing simple moneyline and point spread bets is very simple, but you can also find detailed props and parlay building tools that will appeal to more advanced bettors. Additionally, the minimum deposit is only $5, which is perfect for someone just starting out or not wanting to commit a large amount of money upfront.

However, there are a couple of areas where I think improvements could enhance the user experience. For instance, the addition of live streaming would make it easier to track games directly through the app, adding to the live betting experience. 

Visit our DraftKings review for more detailed information. 

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign up offer: Get a No Sweat First Bet up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets

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

3. BetMGM

Best for: Loyalty Program

I've been quite impressed with BetMGM for a long time, especially because their loyalty program really stands out as one of the best I've encountered. If you enjoy being rewarded and feeling appreciated for your loyalty, BetMGM's program has got you covered. They offer real rewards that you can use at different resorts, making it worth your while.

BetMGM offers an extensive range of betting options, which has always kept my betting time fresh and new. Their high-quality loyalty program not only improves the betting experience but also provides real-life rewards, which is a huge plus for regular bettors like me. The ability to wind up with benefits at in-person MGM Resorts just from betting online is very impressive. 

However, I've noticed a couple of areas that could use some extra attention. More frequent promotions would be highly beneficial, as it keep the betting landscape dynamic. Additionally, the lack of a feature to track betting history is somewhat limiting, as it's helpful to analyze past bets for better future strategies.

Head over to our BetMGM review for more details.

• WSN rating: 4.4/5

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

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

4. ESPN Bet

Best for: Integrating ESPN's Sports Coverage with Betting Content

I've been exploring ESPN Bet and truly appreciate how well it integrates ESPN's sports coverage with betting content. If you're someone who enjoys staying updated with sports news and analyses while engaging in betting, ESPN Bet makes it seamless. Their platform blends insightful sports commentary with real-time betting opportunities, enriching the experience for sports enthusiasts.

What stands out to me about ESPN Bet is its credibility as a widely recognized and trusted brand. They offer daily odds boosts and support live streaming and betting, which maintains the excitement of watching games and placing bets simultaneously. 

However, one drawback is that the desktop site is not accessible from mobile devices, which could limit usability for those on the go. It means you have to download the app if you want to play using your phone. 

Here’s our in-depth ESPN Bet review for more details.

• WSN rating: 4.6/5

• Sign up offer: $1,000 Deposit Match

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

5.Caesars Sportsbook

Best for: Amazing Rewards Program

I'm a big fan of Caesars Sportsbook and really appreciate its rewards program, which is truly top-notch in the industry. If you're someone who values a comprehensive and rewarding loyalty club, Caesars offers one of the best. 

Their platform provides a broad selection of sports and betting types, catering to various interests and strategies. The fact that it also ties in with the real life services at in-person Caesars resorts around the country, from restaurant vouchers to hotel discounts, is the icing on the cake. 

Caesars Sportsbook also features a visually appealing interface that simplifies navigation and makes it straightforward to find your preferred sports and bets quickly. This user-friendly design complements the overall functionality of the betting experience. Although, the platform could benefit from more frequent promotional offers to keep regular bettors incentivized. 

The sign-up offer at Caesars is quite generous. New users can get a second chance bet worth up to $1,000 in bonus bets when they make their first deposit, plus they receive 1,000 Tier and Reward Credits for their account with Caesars Rewards. This initial offer not only provides substantial betting capital but also kickstarts your journey in the Caesars Rewards program, setting you up for further benefits as you continue to bet.

For more information, check out our detailed Caesars Sportsbook review 

• WSN rating: 4.3/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Bets

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

Nearby Betting States

Oklahoma is strategically positioned with regards to the sports betting landscape in the United States, bordering several states where sports betting is legal. To the south, Texas does not currently offer legal sports betting, maintaining a stance similar to Oklahoma's. However, to the east, Arkansas has legalized sports betting, providing options for in-person and mobile wagering.

To the north, both Kansas and Colorado have legalized sports betting. Kansas launched sports betting in September 2022, allowing both retail and online betting options. Colorado has also embraced sports betting, with multiple online and retail sportsbooks available since May 2020. This proximity to states with legal sports betting offers insights and potential pathways for Oklahoma should it choose to follow suit, as well as options for any Oklahomans who want to cross the border to place a bet.

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

NFL

In the NFL, Oklahoma may not host a team, but the state's proximity to Texas means many residents cheer for teams like the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys, one of the NFL's most storied franchises, frequently attract significant betting interest around the country due to their high-profile nature and competitive presence in the league. Betting fans can participate in a variety of bets, from game outcomes and player performances to futures, like who'll win the Super Bowl. Check out our NFL promotions page for more information. 

NBA

The Oklahoma City Thunder represents Oklahoma in the NBA and has made a significant impact in the league, including a memorable run to the NBA Finals in 2012. Betting on the Thunder covers a wide range, from regular season games and player props to playoff outcomes. The team's exciting performances make them a popular choice for sports fans in Oklahoma. Explore NBA betting options on our NBA promotions page. 

MLB

While Oklahoma doesn't have an MLB team, the state is sandwiched between Texas and Missouri, home to major league teams like the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals. These teams provide nearby MLB betting opportunities for Oklahoma residents. Season-long bets, series outcomes, and live betting during games are all popular among fans, with special attention to postseason prospects. Here’s a more detailed look on our MLB promotions page. 

NHL

Hockey might not be the first sport associated with Oklahoma, but the state's sports fans are gradually warming up to the NHL, especially with teams like the Dallas Stars in nearby Texas. Betting on NHL games includes options like puck line bets, totals, and futures on playoff appearances and Stanley Cup victories. Here’s more information on our NHL promotions page. 

UFC

The UFC has deep roots in Oklahoma, highlighted by the state's contribution of top-tier fighters like Daniel Cormier. Cormier, a former UFC Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight Champion, has significantly elevated the profile of mixed martial arts in the region. Betting on UFC in the area often spikes when local heroes are in the octagon, with options ranging from fight winners to methods of victory. Oklahoma's rich history in combat sports not only boosts interest in UFC events but also improves the betting landscape, making it especially lively during high-profile bouts. There is more information in our UFC betting guide. 

What Wager Types Will Be Available in Oklahoma?

Check out all the most popular types of bets available at US sportsbooks:

Moneyline

A moneyline wager involves selecting the team or player you believe will win a game or match. Odds are assigned to both the favorite and the underdog to determine payouts. For example, in a hypothetical matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Dallas Mavericks, the odds might look like this:

• Oklahoma City Thunder (-120)

• Dallas Mavericks (+110)

To understand odds used for betting, it’s useful to think in terms of $100. In this case, the Thunder are the favorites and you would need to bet $120 in order to win $100. The Mavericks are the underdog and a bet of $100 would win $110, for a total return of $210. 

Point Spreads

Point spreads involve betting on the margin of victory in a game. The favorite needs to win by more than the set points to cover the spread, while the underdog will cover by winning outright or losing by less than the spread. For instance, if the Oklahoma Sooners are favored to beat the Texas Longhorns by 7.5 points, the spread would look like this:

• Oklahoma Sooners -7.5 (-110)

• Texas Longhorns +7.5 (-110)

With spread betting, the odds tend to be around -110 for each side, since it’s supposed to be close to a 50/50 bet. If you bet on the Longhorns here, even a 6 or 7 point loss would be enough for you to win your bet. If you bet on the Sooners, on the other hand, they need to win by 8 points or more. 

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. Take this example of a Bedlam Series game:

Oklahoma State vs. Oklahoma 

• Over 56.5 (-110)

• Under 56.5 (-110)

Futures

Futures bets are placed on events that will happen further down the line, such as betting on a team to win a championship at the start of the season. For instance, you might bet on the Oklahoma City Thunder to win the NBA Championship at odds set before the season begins.

Prop Bets

Proposition bets, or prop bets, involve wagering on specific occurrences that may not directly affect the game's outcome, such as how many touchdowns a player will score or how many strikeouts a pitcher will record. An example could be betting on how many passing yards the Oklahoma Sooners' quarterback will throw for in a game, with the sportsbook setting a line and betting on the Over or the Under.

Parlays

A parlay is a combination bet that links together two or more individual wagers and is dependent on all of those wagers winning together. For example, you might parlay the Oklahoma City Thunder to win over the Mavericks, the Tulsa Golden Hurricane to cover the spread, and the total to go over in the Sooners game. 

Same Game Parlays involve picking different bet selections from a single game in a parlay, like combining a winner play with the total and some player props. 

Teasers

Teasers are a type of parlay in sports betting where you adjust the point spread or total of more than one game. You can move the line in your favor, which decreases the payout odds. For instance, you can add a few points to the spread in games involving the Oklahoma State Cowboys and the Oklahoma Sooners.

Live Betting

Live betting involves wagering on a game while it is ongoing, with odds that change as the game progresses. For example, you might place a live bet on the Oklahoma City Thunder to come from behind and win after observing the first half of the game. “Next” markets are a popular way to bet live, meaning you predict the next thing to happen in a game, like the next goal scorer in soccer or strikeout in MLB. 

Expected Betting Restrictions in Oklahoma?

Should sports betting become legalized in Oklahoma, there are likely to be several restrictions in place concerning what markets residents can bet on. Based on the discussions surrounding current and proposed legislation, here are some expected limitations:

• High School Sports: Betting will likely be prohibited to protect underage athletes.

• Politics: Wagering on political outcomes is expected to not be allowed.

• Esports: The inclusion of eSports betting may be delayed or restricted initially.

• Entertainment Events: Bets on events like award shows are typically not permitted.

• College Sports Prop Bets: Restrictions are expected on prop bets for in-state college sports. It remains to be seen whether Oklahoma sports fans will be allowed to bet on in-state NCAA teams, which is banned in some states. 

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Oklahoma?

Yes, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is legal in Oklahoma. DFS operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, Sleeper, and OwnersBox offer services to Oklahoma residents, allowing them to participate in daily or weekly fantasy sports contests across various sports leagues.

1. DraftKings DFS

Best for: Comprehensive Sports Coverage and Contest Variety

DraftKings is a leader in the DFS industry, offering a wide array of contest types and sports options. If you're someone who enjoys a robust selection and the opportunity to compete in large field tournaments or more intimate contests like head-to-heads, DraftKings has it all. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface and mobile app, which makes accessing contests and managing teams straightforward. DraftKings also provides excellent tools for player research and lineup optimization, giving you the ability to make more informed decisions.

Don't miss out on the best DFS experience in the US.

2. FanDuel DFS

Best for: User-friendly Experience and Exciting Prize Pools

FanDuel is another major player in the DFS market, prized for its intuitive design and the engaging experience it offers. It's particularly appealing to both newcomers with its clean layout and easy navigation. FanDuel differentiates itself with a variety of game formats and a focus on improving the player experience with features like live scoring updates and flexible salary caps. The platform frequently offers large guaranteed prize pools, which can be very attractive to players looking for significant winnings. There are also beginner-only contests, plus a good selection of free play games which let you win cash prizes.

See why FanDuel is a major player.

3. OwnersBox DFS

Best for: Innovative Weekly Fantasy Sports Formats

OwnersBox introduces an innovative twist to traditional DFS by offering weekly fantasy contests that extend the excitement over a longer period than daily contests. This format is great if you prefer a more strategic approach, allowing for adjustments and swaps mid-week based on player performances and other factors. The platform is newer than DraftKings and FanDuel but has quickly gained traction for its unique offerings and user-friendly interface, although it has a lower number of sports available overall. It's a refreshing alternative for fantasy sports enthusiasts looking for something different from the more established sites.

Join OwnersBox weekly fantasy contest.

4. Sleeper DFS

Best for: Easy access

Gamers and sports fans in Oklahoma can easily access premium Daily Fantasy Sports services via Sleeper. The brand is available via mobile and desktop, offering players the essential services needed to explore Football, Basketball, and League of Legends picks. Participate in the main paid contest type with Daily Drafts, a classic weekly option where you pick a team and compete against others. Compete in 1,000, and you will get a Pro rating and move away from Beginner status! The site also includes Sleeper Picks, a similar option to Over/Under prop bets at sportsbooks. The contests are unique and feature options like how many rebounds or points will be scored in an NBA game.

Don't sleep on it, join Sleepers today.  

Social Sportsbooks in Oklahoma

While we wait on the Oklahoma government to legalize online sports betting, there are some alternatives we can recommend until that happens. Let's take a look at the social sportsbooks available right now in Oklahoma.

1. Fliff Social Sportsbook

Let's start with the most important question: Is Fliff legal in Oklahoma? Yes, Fliff is legal in Oklahoma. It operates as a social sportsbook, which means it uses a model where participants bet with virtual currency instead of real money. This allows users to engage in sports betting legally under sweepstakes laws prevalent in many states, including Oklahoma. Fliff offers a fun and low pressure way to experience sports betting without financial risk, catering to both sports enthusiasts and those new to betting.

Fliff's platform is user-friendly, promoting an engaging way to follow live sports with the added excitement of betting-style contests. New users are welcomed with an attractive bonus, receiving a 100% match up to 600,000 Fliff Coins and $100 Fliff Cash, enhancing the fun and engagement without the financial risks associated with traditional sports betting. When you play with Fliff Cash, you can wind up redeeming real cash prizes too. This makes it a popular choice in regions where traditional sports gambling is not permitted.

Check out our detailed Fliff review for more information.

Try out sports betting stress-free with Fliff.

2. Sportzino Social Sportsbook

Sports fans and casino gamers can access dual entertainment via Sportzino's all-in-one platform. Just like Fliff, Sportzino is completely legal and accessible in Oklahoma. The site offers a variety of sports, including football, baseball, basketball, hockey, golf, and soccer. Players can access sports picks for international games and United States-based leagues. Use Gold Coins for free play and Sweeps Coins for a chance to win real money prizes. The platform is available on mobile and desktop for easy access. Select from options including Money Line, Spreads, and Totals when making picks. 

Sportzino also includes a casino platform with premium slot gaming. Explore sports titles, classic games, jackpots, and more via the brand. Use the same GC and SC to play, with coins added to your account for free upon signup. Quickly switch from sports to casino games whenever you like via the easy-to-use platform. The brand also includes regular promotions, so players have more ways to earn free coins. 

Check out our detail review of Sportzino to find out everything.

Join Sportzio for full sweepstakes experience.

Sports Teams in Oklahoma

Oklahoma is home to a good lineup of sports teams, offering a good selection of viewing and betting options for fans:

• Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA): The state's flagship professional basketball team, competing at the highest level in the NBA.

• Oklahoma Sooners (NCAA): With strong teams in football, basketball, and other sports, the University of Oklahoma is a powerhouse in collegiate sports.

• Oklahoma State Cowboys (NCAA): Known for excellence in football and basketball, Oklahoma State University is a prominent contender in NCAA Division I sports.

• Tulsa Golden Hurricane (NCAA): Competing in a variety of sports, this team represents the University of Tulsa with distinction in NCAA competitions.

• Oklahoma City FC (WPSL): This team highlights women's soccer in the Women's Premier Soccer League, promoting female athletics in the state.

• FC Tulsa (USL Championship): A professional men's soccer team based in Tulsa, playing in the USL Championship.

• Oklahoma City Dodgers (MiLB): The Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers, representing Oklahoma in minor league baseball.

• Tulsa Drillers (MiLB): A Double-A minor league baseball team affiliated with the Los Angeles Dodgers, based in Tulsa.

Why You Should Trust Us

At WSN, we approach sports betting with the same passion and curiosity you bring to your bets. Our team, made up of seasoned bettors and professionals, has years of experience both analyzing and participating in sports betting. This blend of personal engagement and professional analysis allows us to offer genuinely useful insights and reviews.

We thoroughly test each sportsbook we review, exploring every aspect, from registration and usability to customer support and withdrawal processes. This hands-on approach is engraved in our rating process. Our goal is to experience the platforms just as you would, so our advice is rooted in real-world experience rather than just speculation. We're committed to providing honest, clear, and useful content that can help guide your betting decisions. Trust in WSN comes from our dedication to detailed, firsthand evaluations and our commitment to staying current in the ever-evolving sports betting landscape.

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, there are a lot of resources available for individuals experiencing gambling-related problems, ensuring support is easily accessible and confidential. 

Here are some key organizations and tools designed to foster responsible gambling:

• Oklahoma Association for Problem and Compulsive Gambling (OAPCG) offers various resources, including a helpline that operates 24/7. Those in need can reach out via phone at 1-800-522-4700 for support. Additional resources and information are available on their website: OAPCG.org.

• The National Council on Problem Gambling also provides help at a national level, with a confidential helpline available for Oklahoma residents. You can contact them at 1-800-522-4700 or visit their website for more resources: ncpgambling.org.

Legal and regulated sportsbooks generally offer several tools aimed at promoting responsible gambling. These include:

• Deposit Limits: Allow bettors to control the amount of money they deposit over a given period.

• Loss Limits: Bettors can set a limit on how much they can afford to lose over a certain period.

• Wagering Limits: Limits on the amount of money that can be wagered.

• Session Time Limits: Restricting the length of the betting sessions to prevent prolonged gambling.

• Reality Checks: Notifications that alert bettors to the amount of time they have spent on a gambling platform.

• Self-Exclusion: Options for users to exclude themselves from gambling on the site for a set period or permanently.

These tools are designed to help individuals manage their gambling behaviors effectively, providing necessary breaks and preventing excessive betting. Each sportsbook has specific measures in place, so it's advisable to check directly with the platform for the exact tools they offer.