Nevada Control Board Recommends eSports Advisory Committee

With the global coronavirus pandemic limiting people to their homes, regular sports went on hiatus in 2020. Games and seasons were postponed or canceled, and the sports betting world slowed considerably.

One industry that managed to capitalize on the pandemic situation was eSports. NASCAR and iRacing were broadcast on national television, while other competitive-based video games saw increased interest with people stuck at home.

Sports betting markets are now looking to add eSports betting to their catalogs. Regulators in Nevada are currently exploring how the state’s eSports offerings can be improved.

In June, Bill 165 was approved by the Senate and became effective in July. The bill allowed the Nevada Gaming Control Board to build an eSports technical advisory committee, if approved by the Nevada Gaming Commission.

Control Board Chairman Brin Gibson mentioned the gaming commission could consider the regulatory change by October.

When it comes to offering eSports as a betting option, Nevada sportsbooks are required to submit an extra application to the state’s gaming control board in order to be approved to take eSports bets.

If eSports can be designated as a regular sport, operators will be able to bypass the extra application and allow eSports an easier path to getting on betting boards in Nevada.

Support for eSports in Nevada

Fifth Street Gaming CEO Seth Schorr spoke during Wednesday’s session in favor of eSports betting. He mentioned how a committee will help Nevada stay relevant and make it easier for operators to accept wagers.

“There’s no doubt in my mind it is going to continue to be the type of sport that our current and future customers will want to bet on,” Schorr said.

Brendan Bussman, partner and director of government affairs at Global Market Advisors, also said he believes Nevada must modernize its eSports gambling framework to be at the forefront of the eSports betting market.

Phillip Katsaros, a member of Nevada’s Gaming Control Board, mentioned that it’s important to capitalize on eSports’ current growth and interest.

eSports Arena in Vegas

Nevada has a strong eSports presence with a dedicated eSports arena in Las Vegas.

The HyperX eSports Arena is inside The Luxor. The facility spans 30,000 square feet and features everything from a 50-foot LED video wall, to VIP rooms, a luxury box suite lounge, broadcast center and production studio.