North Carolina sports betting: Best promotions currently in NC – syracuse.com
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Fox Sports broadcaster Greg Olsen, who placed the first ceremonial bet in North Carolina, shows his receipt during a DraftKings event celebrating the launch of mobile and online sports wagering across the state. (AP Photo/Erik Verduzco)AP
Sports betting has officially launched in North Carolina, marking the end of a lengthy three-year legal journey since its initial proposal in the state legislature back in 2021. This significant development breaks through years of legislative hurdles, finally allowing North Carolinians the opportunity to engage in sports betting—a pastime residents have long enjoyed in neighboring states like Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee.
The introduction of sports betting in North Carolina opens up a new chapter for locals who have been stuck on the sidelines, observing other states partake in this engaging activity. With the launch, North Carolina residents can now explore and benefit from a variety of NC promotional offers and bonuses provided by a wide range of sportsbooks, enhancing their betting experience right from the start.
New sportsbooks in North Carolina: Our helpful guide
As the sports betting landscape expands in North Carolina, a number of renowned sports betting apps are making their debuts in the Tar Heel State. Among them are industry leaders such as FanDuel Sportsbook, DraftKings Sportsbook, BetMGM Sportsbook, and Bet365 Sportsbook, each offering unique promotions to welcome new users in March 2024.
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FanDuel Sportsbook NC
North Carolina residents are greeted with an attractive FanDuel Sportsbook promotion. New users are rewarded with $250 in bonus bets following an initial $5 wager, presenting an exceptional opportunity for newcomers with minimal initial investment required. Renowned for its user-friendly interface and extensive market coverage, FanDuel Sportsbook has established itself as a leader in North Carolina sports betting.
DraftKings Sportsbook NC
With just a $5 deposit and wager, DraftKings Sportsbook is happy to welcome North Carolinians with a $250 bonus bet offer. This platform is celebrated for its technological prowess and extensive market reach, establishing itself as a pivotal player in North Carolina’s sports betting sector.
BetMGM Sportsbook NC
BetMGM introduces itself to North Carolina bettors with $150 in bonus bets, available upon a minimal $10 deposit and a $5 wager. Known as the “King of Sportsbooks,” BetMGM has attractive user experience and customization features in North Carolina.
Bet365 Sportsbook NC
Familiar to European bettors, Bet365 is expanding its reach into North Carolina, offering new users a choice between two enticing promotions: $200 in bonus bets or a $1,000 “first bet safety net.” Despite being newer to the American market, Bet365 is well respected and shows promising potential for growth in North Carolina.
This comprehensive overview of sportsbooks launching in North Carolina not only guides residents through their new options but also showcases the lucrative deals available, ensuring bettors are well-informed and ready to engage in this exciting new venture.
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Expert take: North Carolina sports betting
“The launch of sports betting in North Carolina is more than just a new chapter for the state; it’s a monumental shift in the way fans engage with sports,” says Nick Slade, chief content officer at sports betting insights and analysis site Dimers.com. “This isn’t just about placing bets; it’s about enhancing the fan experience, deepening our understanding of the games, and uniting communities with every play, game, and season. We’re on the cusp of witnessing a transformative period for sports fans, one where the thrill of the game meets the excitement of strategic analysis and prediction.”
Betting options in North Carolina: A sports fan’s guide
Now that you’re familiar with the sportsbooks launching in North Carolina, it’s time to dive into the exciting world of sports betting. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the scene, here’s a rundown of popular betting options to consider:
College Basketball: As the heartland of prestigious college basketball programs, North Carolina is buzzing with tournament fever. With conference tournaments leading up to the NCAA tournament and March Madness, now is the perfect time to engage with our March Madness betting guide for strategic insights.
NFL: The NFL may be in its off-season, but betting opportunities abound. Futures bets are a great option if you’re predicting significant team improvements. Additionally, with the NFL Draft approaching, consider exploring draft odds for a unique betting experience.
NBA: After the All-Star break, the NBA season heats up as teams compete for playoff positions. Explore a variety of betting options, including game spreads, totals, and NBA player props. The approaching playoffs add an extra layer of excitement to NBA betting.
NHL: Similar to the NBA, the NHL is entering the critical final stretch of the regular season, with playoffs on the horizon. Dimers offers NHL predictions based on 10,000 simulations per game to reveal the most likely results.
MLB: Baseball fans rejoice as the season approaches. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for summer betting opportunities, baseball offers a rich array of options to keep bettors engaged.
Golf: While it may not share the mainstream spotlight, golf betting presents a unique opportunity, especially with major tournaments like the Masters Tournament, the PGA Championship, the U.S. Open, and the Open Championship. The potential for high payouts makes this an exciting option for bettors.
Tennis: Following the Australian Open, the tennis calendar continues with major events like the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. Tennis betting adds an engaging dimension to watching matches.
UFC/MMA: For combat sports fans, UFC and MMA betting offer constant action, with events almost every weekend. Delve into the dynamic world of UFC betting for an exhilarating experience.
Soccer: With leagues around the world, from the MLS to Europe’s top competitions, soccer betting offers global excitement and diverse opportunities.
Olympics: As the Paris 2024 Olympics approach, it’s a unique time to celebrate national pride and explore less familiar sports. Embrace the spirit by betting on various Olympic events.
These betting opportunities are available in North Carolina to enhance your sports viewing experience and possibly reap rewards from your strategic wagers.
North Carolina sports teams: From pro squads to college contenders
Take a look at the heart of North Carolina’s vibrant sports scene by exploring the array of teams that bring pride and excitement to the state. Whether you’re a fan of professional leagues or college sports, North Carolina has a rich array of teams to support and bet on.
Carolina Panthers
Under the new guidance of head coach Dave Canales and the potential growth of rookie quarterback Bryce Young, the Carolina Panthers look to rebuild and regain competitive form. Despite current challenges and being the underdogs in Super Bowl odds, there’s a sense of optimism for future seasons.
Carolina Hurricanes
The Carolina Hurricanes have consistently been formidable contenders in the NHL, vying for the Metropolitan Division title and aiming for their first Stanley Cup since 2006. With the acquisition of Jake Guentzel, the Hurricanes are geared up for a strong finish.
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Charlotte Hornets
The absence of LaMelo Ball has set the Charlotte Hornets on an unexpected path, focusing on the rebuilding process and future prospects in light of this season’s challenges.
Charlotte FC
In only their second season, Charlotte FC showcased their potential by securing a playoff berth. Despite the departure of top scorer Karol Swiderski, the team’s spirit and ambition remain unshaken.
North Carolina’s college powerhouses
The state is home to legendary college teams known nationwide:
North Carolina Tar Heels: A storied basketball legacy with recent impressive finishes, although the football team is in the midst of a long-standing ACC title drought.
Duke Blue Devils: A bastion of basketball excellence, eyeing a strong showing in the upcoming NCAA tournament. Football, on the other hand, has been historically challenging.
NC State Wolfpack: Known for their historic NCAA tournament victories but facing challenges in recent years, both in basketball and football.
Wake Forest Demon Deacons: A team with historical moments looking to make a mark in the current season as a potential March Madness contender.
North Carolina is also home to notable mid-major teams such as Appalachian State, Davidson, and East Carolina, among others. These teams enrich the state’s sports landscape, offering exciting competitions and unique betting opportunities.
This comprehensive look into North Carolina’s teams offers bettors and fans alike a guide to the popular sports scene across the state. From the professional arenas to the college courts, there’s an abundance of talent and competition that makes North Carolina a vibrant hub for sports fans, and now bettors too.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the legalization of sports betting in North Carolina is a historic development that many locals have been eagerly awaiting. As sportsbooks open their doors and begin offering a plethora of betting options, the landscape of sports entertainment in the state is poised for a significant transformation. From the NFL to college basketball, from the NHL to Major League Baseball, and from global events like the Olympics to the thrilling world of UFC/MMA, the opportunities for betting are as diverse as they are exciting.
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Moreover, the spotlight shines brightly on North Carolina’s home teams, from professional squads like the Carolina Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes, and Charlotte Hornets to the competitive college teams that make the state a hotbed for basketball and football. These teams not only represent the spirit and pride of North Carolina but also offer unique betting opportunities for local and statewide fans.
With the legal challenges and red tape now behind it, North Carolina steps into a new era where sports betting is set to enhance the excitement of sports viewing and bring together a community of enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the world of sports wagering, the launch of sports betting in North Carolina promises a thrilling and engaging experience. Remember to bet responsibly in NC and enjoy the new dimension it adds to your sports entertainment palette. Welcome to the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of sports betting in North Carolina.
Dimers.com provides exclusive sports betting content to Syracuse.com, including sports news, picks, analysis and sportsbook promotions to help bettors get in on the action. Please wager responsibly.
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A planned offshore wind project off North Carolina’s coast that could have powered roughly 300,000 homes has been scrapped after the federal government agreed to spend nearly $1 billion to halt its development, a decision that is drawing sharp reactions and raising questions about future energy costs in the state.
Under the agreement, the French energy company TotalEnergies will be reimbursed for leases it purchased in federal waters near Bald Head Island. In exchange, the company will redirect that investment into oil and natural gas projects, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) production.
The move comes as electricity demand in North Carolina and across the Southeast is rising, driven by population growth and the rapid expansion of energy-intensive data centers.
Energy analysts say removing a major potential source of power from the pipeline could have lasting implications.
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“I think folks are trying to figure out how to reconcile this with the fact that we do need more electrons on the grid,” said Katharine Kollins, president of the Southeastern Wind Coalition. “Every state right now is looking at how we can develop more energy, not how we should be taking options off the table.”
The canceled project, known as Carolina Long Bay, was one of two offshore wind developments TotalEnergies had planned along the East Coast. The North Carolina portion alone would have generated about 1,300 megawatts of electricity and brought significant economic development to the region.
State leaders were quick to criticize the decision. In a post on X, Gov. Josh Stein said the Trump administration is “spending nearly $1 billion in taxpayer money to pay off a company to stop investments in the clean energy we need,” calling it “a terrible deal for the people of North Carolina and our country.”
The Interior Department, which negotiated the agreement, defended the move, saying offshore wind projects are too costly and unreliable to meet the nation’s energy needs. In a statement, officials said redirecting investment toward natural gas would provide “affordable, reliable and secure energy” while strengthening grid stability.
The debate reflects a broader divide over how to meet growing electricity demand while keeping costs down.
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Offshore wind projects typically require high upfront investment but have no fuel costs once operational. Fossil fuel plants rely on fuel that can fluctuate in price.
“Using a billion dollars of taxpayer money to remove an option for North Carolina and then require that company to invest in LNG just doesn’t feel right,” Kollins said.
She and other advocates argue that offshore wind could help stabilize energy prices over time by diversifying the state’s power mix, particularly during periods of high demand or fuel volatility.
The federal government and industry leaders backing the deal say natural gas offers a more dependable source of power, especially as the grid faces increasing strain.
Part of that shift now points to LNG, which is traded on a global market. That means prices can rise or fall based on international demand, geopolitical tensions and export levels — dynamics that do not affect wind energy.
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The cancellation also highlights uncertainty around offshore wind development in North Carolina. Duke Energy, the state’s largest utility, holds a neighboring lease in the same area but paused development last year as it reevaluated costs and policy conditions.
As state regulators and utilities map out how to meet future demand, the loss of Carolina Long Bay narrows the range of options.
For residents, the stakes may ultimately show up in monthly bills.
“When we limit our choices,” Kollins said, “we limit our ability to control costs.”
The North Carolina Tar Heels were a first-round exit in this year’s NCAA Tournament, but that does not mean that what transpires the rest of the way does not matter for the program.
It has been less than a week since the Tar Heels blew a 19-point lead in the second half against the VCU Rams, en route to an 82-78 loss in overtime. The result has raised doubts about Hubert Davis’ future as North Carolina’s head coach.
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Mar 19, 2026; Greenville, SC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels center Henri Veesaar (13) bites his jersey against the VCU Rams in the second half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
With all of that being said, here are a couple of things the Tar Heels should be wishing to happen later this week in the Sweet 16.
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Duke Falls Short
Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer talks to a referee March 21, 2026 during the second half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round East Region game with TCU at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. | Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The North Carolina-Duke rivalry is arguably the best one in all of sports. It was a tantalizing matchup the first time these two squared off this year, with Caleb Wilson and Cameron Boozer going head-to-head, as both players are expected to be selected in the top five of the 2026 NBA Draft.
However, the discrepancy between the two teams was apparent, even though the Tar Heels split the season series. The Blue Devils entered the NCAA Tournameent as the No. 1-overall seed in the entire field, while the Tar Heels limped into the field as a six-seed.
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Feb 7, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Caleb Wilson (8) with the ball as Duke Blue Devils forward Cameron Boozer (12) defends in the first half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
While North Carolina would obviously prefer playing in the upcoming round, which starts on Thursday night, nothing would make Tar Heels fans happier than to see Duke fall to St. John’s in the Sweet 16.
The Blue Devils have been playing with fire in the first two rounds, at various points, but they ultimately advanced to the second weekend of the tournament. St. John’s is a formidable opponent that could legitimately take down Duke.
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Mar 21, 2026; Buffalo, NY, USA; Michigan Wolverines head coach Dusty May reacts in the second half against the Saint Louis Billikens during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images | Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
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One of the Teams With a Legitimate Head Coaching Option To Lose
Mar 22, 2026; St. Louis, MO, USA; Iowa State Cyclones head coach T.J. Otzelberger reacts to a call during the second half against the Kentucky Wildcats during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
It has been well-documented that North Carolina is likely to be in the coaching market, as Davis appears to be on his way out in Chapel Hill. If this occurs, the Tar Heels need to make a substantial hire that will elevate the program back to competing for national championships.
There will be a slew of options for North Carolina to consider, but two names to keep an eye on are Iowa State’s T.J. Otzelberger and Alabama’s Nate Oats. You may be asking yourself, ‘Why should North Carolina be rooting for potential head coach candidates to lose?’
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Dec 12, 2024; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina athletic director Bubba Cunningham at Loudermilk Center for Excellence. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Here’s why: the transfer portal opens on April 7, and ideally, North Carolina would want its presumed new head coach in place well before then. Those coaches will not be the only two to watch for, but they are arguably the most ideal.
North Carolina’s top prosecutor is asking the president for
help in the fight against fentanyl. Attorney General Jeff Jackson says
criminals are using Chinese apps to launder millions of dollars which fund
the fentanyl epidemic in the US. He thinks the president can negotiate a
change.
The effort hits home for the Nash family. This past weekend
marked four years since Jeff Nash lost his daughter, Amanda.
“It was a tough weekend. It was. I don’t think it gets
any easier,” Nash told WRAL.
Nash is one of thousands of fathers who knows what it feels
like to lose a child to fentanyl. And he knows what people will say…
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“His daughter should have known not to do it. No one
forced her to do it. She was a grown woman. She was an adult who made her choices
and this was the natural consequence of her choice. And to say that would be
right. I understand that. However, two things can be right. It also is right for
our federal, state and local governments to do everything they can to keep this
poison away from our people,” Nash said.
Fentanyl is the primary driver of the opioid crisis in North
Carolina, contributing to over 75% of fatal drug overdoses in recent years. But
a small change gives cause for hope. 2025 and early 2026 data from the state office
of the medical examiner indicate a potential decline in fentanyl-positive
deaths for the first time in years.
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson said there is
still work to do.
“We’re losing six people a day. I’ve spoken to a lot of families
who have lost people. I told them I’ll do whatever I can and one thing I can do
is go after the money. If you go after the profitability of a crime, you’ll
reduce the prevalence of that crime,” Jackson said.
More than $100 million a week flow through Chinese owned
apps to support the sales of fentanyl in the US, Jackson said.
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Over the last year, his office got one app called WeChat
to agree to be more responsive with investigators and make encrypted spaces on
the app more hostile to fentanyl money laundering. But its sister app, Weixin is
not subject to US laws and wants the White House to take action.
In a letter to the president, Jackson and five other
attorneys general from Colorado, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Kentucky and South
Carolina urged the president to take action. It states that despite the agreement
with WeChat to work with investigators, neither it nor Weixin agree to share
data from the ap.
“In practice, this means that law enforcement can only see
one side of illegal transactions, shielding Chinese-based users from justice,”
the letter said.
Nash wondered why only six attorneys general would support
the effort. Jackson said the focus was to get a request to the president that
was not political, bipartisan and clear.
He believes President Trump has the ability to negotiate with the
Chinese to effect change when it comes to money changing hands through its
apps.
“I think we recognize that the Chinese government is
different than the American government and if the leader of China decided to
make a change, that change would be made,” Jackson said.
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Nash was reluctant to revisit his pain discussing his
daughter’s death, but said it’s worth it if this letter gets people talking or
gets any government movement to reduce the flow of fentanyl into the US.
Nash was one of the subjects in the WRAL documentary, ‘Crisis
Next Door – The Fentanyl epidemic.’
