Rap legend Jay-Z teamed up with Fanatics founder Michael Rubin and CEO of Betting & Gaming Matt King to open the first Fanatics Sportsbook site in New Jersey. Jay-Z, along with Rubin and Bill Callahan, General Manager of Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, cut the ceremonial ribbon at the grand opening event.
Fanatics Sportsbook Launches in Atlantic City
On September 5, Fanatics Sportsbook officially opened at Ocean Casino Resort. The launch featured appearances by stars like Quavo, Dez Bryant, Jalen Rose, and Ryan Clark. Golfer Justin Thomas made the ceremonial first bet, putting $100 on Alabama to win the NCAA Football National Championship.
History in the making with @FanaticsBook at @TheOceanAC pic.twitter.com/fLmvgnIunj
— Roc Nation (@RocNation) September 15, 2024
During the event, Matt King highlighted the significance of New Jersey in the gaming industry, stating, “There are very few places in the United States like Ocean, so this is a great spot to be.” Fanatics Sportsbook offers a state-of-the-art experience with a 100-foot bar, lounge seating for 60, and 140 feet of LED screens displaying live games and odds. Visitors can place bets at windows or self-service terminals surrounded by slot machines and table games.
This sportsbook marks a major milestone in Fanatics’ push into sports betting, marking their first full-scale location in the U.S. Fanatics also operates 21 smaller kiosks nationwide. The collaboration between Fanatics and Ocean Casino started with a casual conversation between Rubin and Callahan, focusing on enhancing the customer experience.
The opening event also featured a blackjack tournament and NFL viewing party. This continues a tradition of high-profile gatherings hosted by Rubin and Jay-Z, who previously partnered on a blackjack tournament at Ocean Casino to support the Reform Alliance. Rubin praised Callahan’s leadership, saying, “I think this is a very special building, a special place run by a special individual.”
The post Jay-Z and Michael Rubin Celebrate the Grand Opening of Fanatics Sportsbook in New Jersey appeared first on iGaming.org.