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Perhaps college basketball has lost some of its previous mainstream appeal. Additionally, it is worth noting that no Massachusetts teams made it to the men’s basketball NCAA Tournament.
However, the launch of online sports betting in Massachusetts last week was perfectly timed.
The men’s NCAA Division I tournament, also known as March Madness, continues to be a massive betting phenomenon in the world of sports. In fact, when you combine all the games played during the tournament, it surpasses even the Super Bowl as the largest betting event of the year. According to the American Gaming Association, an estimated 68 million adults are expected to wager a staggering $15.5 billion on this year’s edition of March Madness.
With legal betting now available in Massachusetts, the state joins the ranks of 33 others (along with Washington, DC). As March Madness commences, it’s crucial to familiarize oneself with key information.
March Madness betting in Massachusetts
As the sports betting market in Massachusetts is still in its early stages, the six online operators are competing fiercely to attract customers. For residents eager to join in, engaging in March Madness betting presents a great opportunity to kickstart their bankroll effectively.
Find the top Massachusetts sports betting promotions by clicking below.
Common types of game bets include spread bets, moneyline bets, and Over/Under bets, all of which can be placed on individual games. Massachusetts online platforms allow bettors to place live bets, even while a game is in progress. Additionally, there is an opportunity to make futures bets on teams, either for winning the championship or for winning their respective region.
3 Massachusetts players to watch in men’s NCAA Tournament
Despite the absence of Massachusetts men’s teams in the Big Dance for the third consecutive tournament (and fourth consecutive year, considering the canceled 2020 event), there are numerous local connections to be found.
Massachusetts basketball fans can rally behind three talented homegrown players this month.
Kyle Filipowski, Duke
Kyle Filipowski’s scoring performance for Duke this season has been impressive, considering the team’s disappointing season by their usual standards. However, his remarkable achievement of leading the perennial powerhouse in scoring puts him in the company of legends.
This season, the ex-Wilbraham & Monson Academy star player has averaged 15.4 points per game under the guidance of coach Jon Scheyer. In the ACC Tournament, he was awarded the prestigious MVP title for his outstanding performance, scoring 20 points and capturing 10 rebounds in the final match versus Virginia.
On Thursday night, Duke, who was previously recognized as the Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year, will be going up against Oral Roberts as the fifth seed.
Adam Seiko, San Diego State
Adam Seiko, a Boston senior, regularly contributes 20.5 minutes per game to San Diego State.
Coach Brian Dutcher’s team has been witnessing an incredible display of long-range shooting from him, as he effortlessly knocks down 3-pointers at an outstanding 46.8% rate this season. On Thursday afternoon, the fifth-seeded Aztecs will be competing against Charleston.
Bensley Joseph, Miami
Bensley Joseph, a former high school basketball player at Arlington and Cushing Academy, has been present in every Miami game this season after transferring out of state for his senior year.
Coach Jim Larranaga has a sophomore guard who stands at 6-foot-2.
On Friday night, Miami, seeded fifth, will be facing Drake.
Holy Cross women lone Massachusetts March Madness rep
Regarding the women’s tournament, there isn’t much stronger support for local teams. Holy Cross is the sole representative from the Bay State.
On Sunday, the Crusaders emerged victorious in the final against their in-state rival Boston University, securing the Patriot League title.
In its opening game, Holy Cross has secured a No. 15 seed and is set to face Maryland, who holds the second seed.
Nevertheless, the 12-player roster of Holy Cross does not include any residents from Massachusetts.
During the implementation of MA sports betting, there was significant controversy surrounding college sports betting. Initially, placing bets on in-state teams was prohibited, except during tournament events. However, three retail sportsbooks were fined for disregarding these regulations in the early stages. Now, with the arrival of the major tournaments, the availability of local betting options has become limited.
Regardless, have a great time during Massachusetts March Madness!
If you or someone you care about is facing gambling-related issues, feel free to reach out to a trained specialist at 1-800-327-5050 or visit www.mahelpline.org/problemgambling. Assistance is available around the clock, and consultations are provided at no cost.