Best Kentucky Sports Betting Sites in 2024: Top 10 KY Sportsbooks Reviewed
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Shawn West
- December 9, 2024
Since September 2023, Kentucky sports betting has been thriving. Besides the prestigious Kentucky Derby, residents now have many betting options. Numerous retail sportsbooks and several Kentucky sports betting sites, including top offshore sportsbooks, are available.
Our guide explores the best options, their betting odds, bonuses and more for sports betting in Kentucky.
| SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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2001
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100% Free Play
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1996
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$500 Cash Bonus
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2001
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$250 Free Bet
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2011
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$750 Cash Bonus
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2002
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55% Cash Bonus
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1996
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$500 Cash Bonus
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Kentucky sports betting saw a 17% handle increase in August despite lower revenues.
Kentucky Sports Betting FAQs
Can I bet on sports if I live in Kentucky?
Yes, you can bet on sports if you live in Kentucky. The state has legalized both in-person and online sports betting, allowing you to place bets at authorized sportsbooks or through online platforms.
Can I use FanDuel in Kentucky?
Yes. FanDuel is available for online wagering purposes for sports bettors in Kentucky. You can also use FanDuel for daily fantasy sports. Kentuckian bettors also have a variety of other online sports betting alternatives to choose from, such as Heritage Sports or JustBet.
Does Kentucky have mobile sports betting?
All of the top online betting sites we have covered offer fully-optimized mobile betting sites to complement the desktop versions.
What gambling is legal in Kentucky?
Horse racing, daily fantasy sports, the state lottery and sports betting are all legal in the state of Kentucky. Local operators still cannot offer online poker, though, so residents turn to sites like Bovada.
What sports betting sites are legal in KY?
Numerous sports betting sites are legal in Kentucky, including Bovada, MyBookie, BetOnline, BUSR and SportsBetting.ag. Sports betting apps such as ESPN BET, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, Fanatics and Circa Sports are also available for bettors in the state.
Can you bet on NFL games in Kentucky?
Kentucky residents can bet on NFL games online completely legally, online or from their mobile device. They have the choice of local operators or sharper offshore sites.
Best Kentucky Betting Apps
Our group of sports gambling experts rated Kentucky’s best sports betting apps and mobile-optimized sites in several different areas and came up with a list of the top 10 best offshore sports betting sites available in Kentucky.
Each online betting app in the top 10 has a long history of dependable, trustworthy operation and treating gamblers fairly. They all offer opportunities to bet on all your favorite sports, as well as many less well-known leagues, teams and events around the world. They also offer a wide range of markets, including parlays, teasers, props and player props, live betting, point spreads and moneyline betting:
- BetOnline – Provides the fastest payouts in Kentucky
- Bovada – Most diverse prop betting menu in the state
- Heritage Sports – Provides the best mobile site for live betting in KY
- BetAnySports – Offers the best reduced juice for KY residents
- Everygame – Features the biggest selection of sporting events from around the world
- WagerWeb – Provides Bitcoin users with same-day payouts
- SportsBetting.ag – Features a mobile racebook for KY bettors
- BetUS – Provides the state’s best welcome bonuses and VIP service
- JustBet – Features high betting lines and low minimums
- BookMaker – Offers best services for sharp bettors in Kentucky
Our top-rated online sports betting websites can each provide Kentuckian sports bettors who meet the legal gambling age with an excellent mobile sports betting experience. These sports betting operators provide competitive betting odds, generous bonuses and a wide range of sports betting markets and options.
Sports Betting Timeline for Kentucky
The evolution of sports betting in Kentucky is a complex and multifaceted journey, reflecting the shifting landscape of legal and regulatory frameworks in the United States. This timeline chronicles the key milestones and legislative efforts in Kentucky, tracing the path from initial proposals and legal battles to the eventual legalization and expansion of sports betting in the state.
It offers a comprehensive overview of the significant developments that have shaped the sports betting scene in Kentucky, highlighting the interplay between political decisions, regulatory changes and market dynamics:
Kentucky sports betting saw a 17% handle increase in August despite lower revenues.
In its first year, Kentucky sports betting hit $2.6B in wagers, generating $317M in revenue and $37.2M in taxes.
Kentucky’s sports betting industry faced a downturn in June, with total handle falling to $150.3 million—a 17% drop from May. Circa Sports debuts in Kentucky with a temporary sportsbook at The Mint Gaming Hall, bringing Las Vegas to the Bluegrass State.
Kentucky’s ban on skill game machines upheld by court. Meanwhile, Kentucky’s online sportsbooks brought in almost $625 million in wagers and nearly $67 million in revenue from March to May.
Despite Governor’s reservations, Kentucky forms new gaming agency called the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission to supervise sports betting, pari-mutuel wagering and live horse racing.
Charlie Baker, president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, reveals plans to reach out to regulators in states with legal sports betting to remove college prop bets from all betting markets.
Governor Andy Beshear announces that nearly $250 million has been wagered on sports in Kentucky since the start of legal sports betting.
Kentucky’s online sports betting market officially opens for business, with seven sportsbook apps launching operations. An eighth sportsbook, Circa Sports, is expected to launch soon after.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear reports that the state hauled in $8 million in revenue over the first two months since sports betting launched.
Republican Representative Michael Lee Meredith filed House Bill 551 which aims to legalize and regulate live sports betting and allow users to have online betting accounts. It would also provide the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission with regulatory authority over gaming businesses.
Kentucky regulators work towards the goal of launching sports betting by the NFL season kickoff, with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission planning a session in early July to review and approve regulations.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signs a sports betting bill that allows for both retail and online sports betting in the state.
For the third straight year, a bill is proposed. This time, the state house passes it, but it can’t generate enough Republican support to pass the state senate.
House Bill 106, backed by Derrick Graham, Cherlynn Stevenson and Rachel Roberts, is introduced. If approved, this would give way to retail wagering as well as online sports betting and online poker. The bill also proposes regulating fantasy sports, which operate in a grey area.
A bill to legalize sports betting in Kentucky passes through the House Licensing, Occupations and Administrative Regulations Committee.
A group of lawmakers in Kentucky introduce a bill to legalize sports betting in the state.
The U.S. Supreme Court strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), clearing the way for states to legalize sports betting.
Kentucky State Senator Julian M. Carroll introduces a bill that would legalize sports betting in the state, but the bill fails to gain traction.
Kentucky officials seize the domain names of 141 online operators, including some that offered sports betting, in a high-profile case that draws criticism from internet freedom advocates.
Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear launches a legal battle to seize 141 online gambling domain names, including several sports betting websites, claiming that they are “leeching off Kentucky’s signature industry.” The move is widely criticized by the online gambling industry and internet freedom advocates.
The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) is signed into law, which effectively bans online sports betting and other forms of online gambling in the United States. Kentucky’s efforts to seize online gambling domain names in 2008 are seen as a major example of the government’s crackdown on online gambling in the wake of the UIGEA.
As the landscape of the retail sports betting industry continues to evolve, these milestones provide valuable insights into the future direction of sports betting and online gambling in the region.
Reviews of the Best Kentucky Betting Apps & Mobile Sites
Our panel of experts considered several different factors while assembling its list of the 10 best mobile sites and sports betting apps in Kentucky. Each of the offshore sportsbooks in the top 10 list has different specialties, so we provided a detailed analysis of each mobile site or app in our rankings.
Every gambler has different priorities when placing bets on their mobile device, so the strengths of some online betting sites may be a better match for your personal needs and individual preferences than others that we ranked higher. So, our list of key features for each mobile site will help you find the one that is the best match for your betting needs.
Some of the factors we considered were user-friendly interfaces, betting limits, the size of the minimum bets, competitive betting odds, the variety of payment methods available, customer service and bonuses for new and existing customers. Each of the following top-rated online sportsbooks takes bets from residents of Kentucky:
1. BetOnline: Outstanding Site for Opinionated Lines
Key Features:
- One of the few sites to offer opinionated lines
- Recent renovation has improved mobile platform to one of the industry leaders
BetOnline stands out in Kentucky’s sports betting landscape with its unique offering of opinionated lines, which is a rarity among sportsbooks. Unlike the standard practice of offering the same odds on both sides of a spread or total, the BetOnline app often presents asymmetrical lines, like -112/-108 or -113/-107. This approach allows savvy bettors to find greater value and potentially increase their profit margins.
Beyond its sportsbook, BetOnline boasts an online casino with over 500 games and a live poker room that is part of the third busiest poker network. Users can also benefit from using the generous promo codes provided on their site.
The mobile betting platform is highly regarded, having undergone significant software upgrades. It now competes for the title of most improved mobile site in Kentucky, offering all main site features.
2. Bovada: Best Mobile Site for Prop Betting
Key Features:
- The most prop bets in Kentucky, including easily winnable ones to get you started
- America’s busiest live online poker room and an outstanding online casino
Bovada excels not just in mobile functionality but also in providing a comprehensive betting experience. It includes a vast racebook, a large online casino and America’s busiest poker room, along with non-sports markets like entertainment. The mobile site delivers an outstanding user experience, mirroring the full-site functionality on computers.
Bovada’s strength in mobile sports betting alone places it high in our rankings, especially in Kentucky, with its extensive prop bet selection. The mobile site is fully featured, unlike some competitors that offer a pared-down version.
Welcome bonuses at Bovada come with a lower 5x rollover requirement, facilitating quicker access to bonus funds. The bonus codes at Bovada can provide additional bonus funds and other perks as well.
3. Heritage Sports: Top Choice for Live Betting in KY
Key Features:
- Offers the best live betting experience in Kentucky
- VIP treatment for all customers, including cashback rebates and customer service
Heritage Sports ranks fifth among mobile sports betting sites and apps in Kentucky, transitioning from an invite-only platform to a welcoming site that offers amazing live betting options. Known for outstanding customer service, fast payouts and ongoing promotions, Heritage Sports maintains its VIP appeal through exceptional ongoing promotions.
Another thing players love about this mobile betting app is the reduced juice betting lines of -108 on many events, along with competitive odds. Heritage’s mobile platform mirrors its desktop site, including a large mobile casino with a live dealer section.
As an early adopter of live betting, Heritage Sports continues to lead the competition with a user-friendly mobile platform that enables swift placement of live bets.
4. BetAnySports: Best Reduced Juice for Bettors in Kentucky
Key Features:
- Reduced juice offers the best value in Kentucky
- Low house edge on most betting markets, including money lines, props and futures
The BetAnySports mobile sportsbook has been elevated to an A+ rating, a testament to its exceptional offerings. A key factor in this upgrade is its best-in-state reduced juice odds, a rarity among sportsbooks. BetAnySports has built its reputation on allowing gamblers to maximize profits through lower betting costs.
While the industry norm is -110 odds on either side of a point spread or total, BetAnySports frequently offers odds at -105. This reduction means significantly lower losses on unsuccessful bets, cumulatively reducing the edge needed to beat the house over time.
To offset these odds, BetAnySports offers lower new user bonuses and promotions compared to competitors. Customer service remains a strong point, ensuring a balanced and value-oriented betting experience for Kentucky sports bettors.
5. Everygame: Features a Massive Menu of Sports
Key Features:
- Bet on more sports, leagues and events from around the world than with anyone else
- Biggest menu of casino games
Everygame Sportsbook is a top choice for mobile sports betting in Kentucky. With a wide range of sports to bet on, including professional sports from all over the globe along with esports, the Everygame app offers a diverse and exciting betting experience. The bookmaker’s mobile website allows for convenient on-the-go betting, ensuring that users can place their bets anytime, anywhere.
There are also valuable bonuses and promo codes at Everygame, such as a welcome bonus, parlay insurance and monthly prizes, adding extra value to the betting experience. With multiple payment methods available, including cryptocurrencies, Everygame ensures convenient and secure transactions. Overall, Everygame’s combination of a comprehensive sportsbook, mobile accessibility and attractive promotions make it a top choice for sports betting enthusiasts in Kentucky.
Best Kentucky Sports Betting Bonuses
Kentucky sports bettors have access to some unique and rewarding bonus offers. Here are the top promotions available for residents of the Bluegrass State:
- BetOnline – $250 Free Bet Welcome Bonus: Kentucky sports enthusiasts can jumpstart their betting adventure with BetOnline’s lucrative offer. A deposit of at least $50 will get you a 50% bonus up to $250. This bonus comes with 100 free casino spins. Apply the code FREE250 to unlock this offer.
- Bovada – $250 Sports Welcome Bonus: Bovada welcomes new Kentucky bettors with a 50% match bonus up to $250 on their first deposit. There’s no need for a promo code. Simply make a minimum deposit of $20 to qualify, and enjoy a 5x rollover requirement.
- Heritage Sports – 50% Cash Bonus: For new players from Kentucky, Heritage Sports offers a 50% cash bonus with no promo code needed. This bonus requires a minimum deposit of $300 and comes with a 12x rollover requirement.
- BetAnySports – Less Juice Package: Kentucky bettors can benefit from BetAnySports’ innovative Less Juice Package. This package reduces the juice on your bets, giving you 10-cent lines on major sports like NFL, NBA and MLB. This means better odds and more value for your bets.
- Everygame – $500 Non-Crypto Sign-Up Bonus: Everygame offers a generous 100% bonus up to $500 for new Kentucky players who make their first deposit. Use the code WELCOME500 to claim this bonus, available for non-crypto deposits only. To cash out, you need to wager your deposit and bonus eight times at minimum odds of -200 (1.5).
To make the most of these offers, ensure you enter any required promo codes and thoroughly read the terms and conditions. Whether you’re new to the scene or an experienced bettor, these promotions provide an excellent opportunity to boost your bankroll.
Is sports betting legal in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky legalized sports betting in 2023 with House Bill 551, allowing both online and retail sports betting. Retail sports betting began on September 7, 2023, and online sports betting platforms started on September 28, 2023.
Currently, there are state-regulated options for both in-person and online sports betting. Retail sportsbooks are operational in Kentucky. This marks a significant step forward for gambling in the state, providing a variety of betting options for sports enthusiasts. While horse racing has long been legal in Kentucky, there are currently no state-regulated options for in-person casino games or video poker.
Many gamblers also use offshore sportsbooks, which are legal outside U.S. jurisdiction and not subject to Kentucky state laws or federal gambling regulations. These platforms, like those in our list of the 10 best online sportsbooks in Kentucky, are available to residents and provide additional betting options, including casino games and live poker rooms.
There are no Kentucky state laws or U.S. federal regulations prohibiting Kentuckians from using them to bet on sports, races or casino games, provided they meet the legal betting age of 18.
How to Sign up for a Kentucky Betting App & Mobile Site
Getting started on a sports betting mobile site or app in Kentucky is fast and easy. The entire process takes just a few minutes, from start to finish. Here is a step-by-step guide.
- Open a Sports Betting Account: Once you’ve decided which app or mobile site you’re going to use, go to the site’s homepage and click the “Join” button. Fill out the registration page with the requested information. You may need to verify by having them send a code to your phone.
- Choose a Payment Method: Next, you need to make your initial deposit and collect your welcome bonus. Go to the Cashier section and choose from multiple deposit options such as debit card, wire transfer, credit card or crypto. Then enter your information and the amount you want to deposit.
- Select a Welcome Bonus: New customers should be able to choose from several welcome bonuses. Many online sports betting sites offer deposit matches, which is a type of bonus where the amount of free money depends on how much of your funds you put in to open your account. You also might get additional bonus money for depositing crypto. Be sure to enter any sportsbook promo codes required to claim your bonus.
- Choose a Sport to Wager On: Now you can start betting. Pick the sport, game and type of bet you want to make and fill out the betting slip.
- Place your Bet: The final step is to place your online wagers by submitting the bet slip.
Mobile Sites vs. Sportsbook Apps for Betting in Kentucky
Throughout this guide, we’ve lumped together mobile websites and betting apps as one category, but there are key differences. Both options allow you to bet on a phone or tablet, instead of using a computer. Here’s what is different about the two options:
Mobile Site
Using a mobile site doesn’t require any downloads. Bettors just go to a sportsbook’s mobile site directly from the browser on their phone by entering the website URL. If you’ve gone to any website on your phone or tablet—whether it’s a gambling site or not—you’ve used their mobile site without even knowing it.
Pros:
- Instant access to the sportsbook
- You don’t need to make storage space available on your device
- Doesn’t need to be updated regularly
- Accessible on most devices—phone or tablet
Cons:
- Site may be down for maintenance or other issues
- Less secure than an app
Mobile App
To use an app, you must download and install the app on your phone or tablet. You then click it to open it when you want to use it.
Pros:
- Quick and easy to start up
- More secure than mobile sites
- Guaranteed to work on your device
Cons:
- Many sites don’t offer apps or don’t offer it for all devices
- Need to have enough storage space available on your device
Betting Markets Available for Kentucky Sports Betting
Just about every sports betting site has point spreads, moneyline bets and point totals. You want the best sportsbooks to provide a much wider menu of betting markets, however, including:
- Game props
- Player props
- Alternate lines
- Same game parlays
- Live betting
- Futures
- Parlays
- Teasers
- Pleasers
- Progressive parlays
- Reverse bets
- If bets
- Round robins
You will also want to look for sportsbooks that offer a wide variety of different sports betting markets. You can expect to find popular American sports such as football, basketball and baseball at any online sportsbook, but where some sportsbooks truly shine is their selection of more niche sports betting markets, including esports, horse racing, auto racing, rugby, cricket, snooker and many other niche offerings. You will also want to seek out an online sportsbook that offers a nice selection of international sporting events that you can bet on.
How We Rank the Best Kentucky Betting Apps & Mobile Sites
Several factors determine which mobile sites make our top 10 list for betting sites in Kentucky. That means that our top-ranked mobile sites and betting apps need to do several different things well.
We evaluated each of the sites on a wide range of characteristics and weighed each of them based on how important we considered them in the overall gambling experience. Here are some of the factors we looked at.
Mobile Betting Experience
A mobile sports betting app or mobile platform should be easy to use. Our 10 best sportsbooks in Kentucky allow you to do everything on your mobile device that you can on the full site. Apps and mobile pages should be fast-loading, easy to navigate, user-friendly and be laid out in a way that makes sense.
They should be easy to read and have shortcuts or menus that allow you to quickly find the bet you want to make and get your money down.
Mobile Betting Bonuses
Not all bonuses are created equally. They can differ on how much of your deposit is matched, the level at which the amount is capped, the rollover requirements attached to the money and the areas on the site where the bonus money can be used.
Top-rated online sportsbooks should offer flexibility, allowing you to trade off one feature for another—for example, opting for a lower bonus amount that has fewer rollover requirements. Additionally, we went over non-matching bonuses, such as risk-free bets and free plays.
We also looked at all possible strings that might be attached when trying to withdraw the money. Other factors like minimum deposits, bonus percentages, maximum amounts, wagering requirements, rollovers and expiration dates, also weigh heavily.
Live Mobile Betting & Streaming
In-play betting requires pages that load fast and bet slips that are easy to fill out and submit. Odds are changing constantly and the game is going on as you’re betting, so delays can make your bet outdated before you place it.
The best mobile betting sites offer live, in-progress bets on many different sports and many different markets. Many sites also offer live streaming of events, so you can watch as your bets unfold.
Banking Options
When you need your money, online sportsbooks should make it easy to get. The process of depositing and withdrawing funds should be fast and easy, without unnecessary delays or exorbitant fees. There should also be a wide range of deposit methods and withdrawal options that are accepted.
The top mobile sites have simple, secure transactions that don’t take too long to complete. Fees should be kept to a minimum. Sites should offer many different payment options like credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), wire transfers, debit cards and even crypto to fund your account and receive money.
Many sites also offer extra perks and bonuses for Bitcoin players.
Customer Service
If you have a question, concern or problem, the top sports betting mobile sites can help you with it any time of day. They should offer 24/7 customer service in multiple languages. The support agents should be professional and capable and hold times should not be extremely long. There should be several methods of getting help, including live chat, email and telephone.
Security
Security is a non-negotiable for us. If there are any concerns or questions about a mobile site or app’s security, we drop it from consideration in our rankings. Everyone in our top 10 has a flawless security record and a reputation that has been cultivated over years, if not decades, for safe, secure online gambling.
Mobile Betting Bonuses & Sportsbook Promos Available in Kentucky
There are hundreds of mobile sites and apps looking to get you to bet on sports with them. To try to lure customers to sign up with them, most major sportsbooks in the online sports betting industry offer some type of welcome bonus or other sportsbook promotions for new users. Once you’ve signed up, they’ll also offer loyalty bonuses to keep you betting with them.
Most sites are flexible, offering a wide range of different bonus offers. Below we’ll go through some of the most common types and explain what you’ll be getting.
Welcome Bonuses
Just about every online sports betting site and mobile sports betting app offers a sign-up or “welcome” bonus. It’s the most common type of bonus given out.
Usually, a welcome bonus will match some or all of your first deposit. It could range from as low as a 50% match, meaning that if you deposit $500, you’ll get an additional $250, all the way up to a 200% match, which would mean your $500 is matched with an additional $1,000.
Bonuses are usually capped at a maximum amount. Amounts may also be specific to different areas of the site. For example, a site may offer a maximum $2,500 bonus to use in the sportsbook and a separate $500 casino bonus.
Existing Customer Promotions
Sites also offer current customers loyalty bonuses to keep them happy. It could be a reload bonus, which is essentially like a welcome bonus on future deposits you make after opening the account. Books will also offer cash-back programs, rewards programs, enhanced odds and risk-free bets.
No Deposit Bonuses
No deposit bonuses are rare. It basically gives you free money by funding your initial wager for free.
They could be offered in a dollar amount or free bet tokens.
Risk-free Bets
Risk-free bets are also common. You get a chance to win without the fear of losing money. Different sites market them as free bets or bet insurance. Usually, you place a bet using money from your account. If you win, you keep what you earned and the risk-free benefit never comes into play. But if you lose, you get back the money you wagered, usually with free bet credits.
Note: None of the bonus money you get is completely free. It usually comes with rollover requirements and expiration dates, making it tougher to withdraw from your account.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Kentucky
In Kentucky, sports betting is a popular pastime for many residents. While the state doesn’t have any major professional teams, fans follow a variety of sports closely. Here’s a look at some of the most popular sports to bet on in Kentucky.
Football – NFL
Kentucky sports fans are passionate about the NFL, with strong support for teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and Tennessee Titans due to their geographical proximity. The Bengals have a long history and have been competitive in recent years, while the Titans have also had strong showings, including playoff appearances. Popular options include point spreads, moneylines and prop bets, especially during the Super Bowl, when excitement peaks.
College Football
College football has a special place in Kentucky, with the University of Kentucky Wildcats and the University of Louisville Cardinals leading the charge. The Wildcats have made a name for themselves in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), with competitive seasons and bowl game appearances. The Cardinals, competing in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), also have a strong football program. Betting on college football often involves point spreads, over/under totals and individual player performances, especially during the heated rivalry games.
Basketball – NBA
Basketball is big in Kentucky, with many fans following the nearby Indiana Pacers and Memphis Grizzlies. The Pacers have a storied history and a loyal fanbase, while the Grizzlies are known for their young and dynamic roster. NBA betting offers a variety of options, including point spreads, total points and player stats. The fast pace and frequent games make NBA betting a popular choice.
College Basketball
College basketball is a cornerstone of Kentucky’s sports culture. The University of Kentucky Wildcats are a powerhouse in NCAA basketball, with multiple national championships and a storied tradition. The University of Louisville Cardinals also have a strong basketball program, with a dedicated fanbase and a history of success. Betting on college basketball includes wagers on point spreads, total points and player performances, with March Madness being a particularly popular time for bets.
Baseball – MLB
Baseball fans in Kentucky often support the Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals. The Reds, one of the oldest franchises in Major League Baseball, have a rich history and a strong following in the state. The Cardinals are also well-supported, with a reputation for being one of the most successful teams in the league. Betting on MLB games can include run lines, totals and player performance bets, providing ample opportunities throughout the long season.
Hockey – NHL
Hockey may not be the most popular sport in Kentucky, but fans still enjoy betting on the NHL. The Nashville Predators are the closest team, attracting support from Kentucky residents. The Predators have built a strong fanbase with their energetic play and playoff appearances. Common NHL bets include moneylines, puck lines and total goals, especially during the exciting playoff season.
These sports provide a wide range of betting opportunities for Kentucky fans. Whether it’s professional leagues or college athletics, there’s always a game to bet on in the Bluegrass State.
Popular Kentucky-Based Teams for Sports Bettors
Kentucky, known for its rich sports culture, primarily revolves around college sports, as it does not host any major professional sports teams; they don’t have teams in the NFL, NBA or MLB. However, despite the lack of any professional teams, the state’s devotion to college basketball and football teams is notable. The following teams typically see a large volume of sports bets in the state:
- University of Kentucky Wildcats: The University of Kentucky Wildcats, based in Lexington, are a powerhouse in NCAA Division I sports, particularly in basketball. The Wildcats’ basketball team is one of the most successful in NCAA history, with multiple national championships and a legion of devoted fans. Their football team, competing in the Southeastern Conference, has also gained prominence with several bowl game appearances and competitive seasons.
- University of Louisville Cardinals: The Louisville Cardinals, the Wildcats’ fierce rivals, are equally prominent in college basketball. They have a strong tradition, with multiple NCAA championships to their name. The Cardinals’ college football team, playing in the Atlantic Coast Conference, has seen significant success, producing numerous NFL players and occasionally ranking in the top 25 nationally.
- Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers: Located in Bowling Green, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers compete in Conference USA. They are one of Kentucky’s more high-profile NCAA teams, with several tournament appearances and a notable fan base. Their football team has also risen in prominence, making regular bowl game appearances and competing strongly in their conference.
- Murray State University Racers: The Racers, based in Murray, are known for their basketball team. Competing in the Ohio Valley Conference, they have made multiple appearances in the NCAA tournament, often as a competitive underdog capable of upsetting higher-seeded teams.
- Morehead State University Eagles: Located in Morehead, the Eagles compete in the Ohio Valley Conference. They have participated in the NCAA basketball tournament several times and are known for their spirited play and dedicated fan base.
- Eastern Kentucky University Colonels: The Colonels, based in Richmond, compete in both basketball and football in the Ohio Valley Conference. They have a history of competitive play in basketball, with several NCAA tournament appearances.
In the absence of major professional sports teams, Kentucky sports fans’ passion is deeply rooted in these college teams, making the state a vibrant hub for collegiate sports and college betting.
Kentucky Betting Apps & Mobile Sites for iOS & Android
Sports betting apps and mobile platforms in Kentucky should be compatible with all mobile devices such as tablets and phones, Android and iOS.
iPhone
To download native sportsbook apps in Kentucky, iPhone users need to go to the Apple Store. You can search the store for the name of the sportsbook’s app. Some online gambling sites offer a direct link to their app’s listing in the App Store. Once you find it, it can be downloaded to your phone.
If the sportsbook you chose doesn’t have an iPhone app, you can create a mobile progressive web app on your device for free.
Android
To download an Android sports betting app, go to the Google Play Store. You can either search the store for the online sports betting app or many sportsbooks offer a link to the listing on their web page. If there is no official Android app available, you can create a mobile progressive web app on your device.
Kentucky Betting Guides
For gamblers looking for more than just sports betting in Kentucky, we recommend checking out our other in-depth online gambling guides:
