California Sports Betting

CA Mobile Sportsbook Legalization & Updates 2024

California

Action Network check mark Updated March 19, 2024

California Sports Betting Updates:

  • January 22, 2024: California sports betting will not be legalized in 2024 due to minimal support from tribes and the public.
  • November 17: California's tribal executive committee rejects proposal that pushed for commercial sportsbooks in the state. Once the public commenting period ends on Nov. 27, the CNIGA (California Nations Indian Gaming Association) can officially start collective over 800k signatures needed for the tribal sports betting initiative to make an appearance on the Nov. 2024 ballot.
  • October 27: Two online sports betting initiatives have been filed in California without official consent from two state tribes.
  • October 12: The Pala Band of Mission Indians is looking to submit their own California online sports betting initiative to possibly place legalization back on track by 2024.

Previously, Californians overwhelmingly voted against Prop 27, pushing the Golden State's legalization of sports betting until at least 2024. The difference was staggering, with 4.5 million residents voting no in comparison to over 900,000 residents who voted yes. A majority of state residents also voted in opposition against Prop 26, so in-person sports betting won't to be legalized in California either. The commercial gaming operators and tribes backing each measure have vowed to try again in 2025 despite recent efforts.

PrizePicks California

Although sport betting was not legalized, CA residents can play PrizePicks, a leading Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) provider. PrizePicks is a unique platform that prompts users to select their favorite players from CA teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers or the Los Angeles Lakers and place entries on the over or under on key player stats.

Residents of the Golden State can use the PrizePicks promo code ACTION6, which allows deposit matching on up to $100!

CA Sports Betting Overview, Timeline and Background

Is sports betting legal in California?

No, sports betting is not legal or live in any capacity in the state of California. 

The two sports betting bills that appeared on the November 2022 ballot and a recent proposal last year were met with extreme opposition by state residents and tribes as they were voted down with ease. This, along with the failure of the 2023 push for the California tribes to control sports betting in the state, moves California's sports betting legalization timeline likely to 2025 or beyond. 

Notably, there are about 10 million Democrats and 5 million Republicans in the Golden State, which is an indication that online sports betting is still a major question mark in potentially the largest betting market in North America.

Here is a detailed timeline of the history of sports betting legalization in California:

California's Legalization Timeline

The Golden State has yet to legalize sports betting. Here's a recent timeline that maps out their road to legalization:

February 2024

  • PrizePicks argues to the California Attorney General Rob Bonta that their fantasy sports games are contests of skill, not chance. Attorney General Bonta announced last fall that he'd be reviewing the state of fantasy gaming in California since it is not regulated at this time.

January 2024

  • Sports betting in California will not be legalized in 2024 after the most recent proponent failed due to minimal public support and state tribe opposition. [Jan. 22, 2024]

November 2023

  • The CNIGA (group consisting of 52 state tribes) rejects proposal for allowing commercial sportsbooks in the state of California.

October 2023

  • The Pala Band of Mission Indians have announced their plans of submitting a new online sports betting initiative in California.

November 2022

  • Prop 26 and 27 were not approved on the Nov. 2022 ballot. Unfortunately, the Golden State has a long way to go before in-person and online sports betting is legalized. It is expected that sports betting could be legalized in 2024. [Nov. 10]

July 2022

  • Californian Democrats openly voted on Prop 27 in opposition to online sports betting while staying neutral on the in-person betting initiative led by state tribes. The Democrats' support and commitment to state tribes has been evidently shown as we rapidly approach the Nov. 2022 ballot. [Action Network, July 11]

June 2022

  • Sec. of State Weber and election officials officially verify that both sports betting initiatives qualify for the Nov. 2022 ballot. This news makes it official; Californians will choose either or both sports betting initiatives that will appear on the upcoming state ballot. [Action Network, June 28]

May 2022

  • Over 40 native tribes still oppose the online sports betting initiative in California. The Coalition for Safe, Responsible Gaming released a list of groups opposed to the online sports betting initiative. [Our Coalition, May 12]
  • A list of 21 service organizations in support of the online sports betting initiative was released by Californians for Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support.  [May 11]
  • Over 1.6 million Californians have signed the initiative to legalize online sports betting, which will now put it on the upcoming ballot in November for voters to decide on. [Action Network, May 3]

April 2022

  • A poll was released claiming the majority of California voters oppose online sports betting. The Coalition for Safe, Responsible Gaming is the organization who organized and recorded this poll to gain further insight on sports betting legalization. [Action Network, April 21]

February 2022

  • A public poll claims that 45% of CA voters favor sports betting, with 33% against it and 22% undecided. UC Berkeley was the public institution behind this sports betting poll.  [UC Berkeley, February 25]

September 2021

  • A majority of CA voters support online sports betting, according to a poll released by the Californians for Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support. [September 16]

August 2021

  • A third initiative is filed. This one is called “California Solutions to Homelessness and Mental health Support Act. This initiative has support from DraftKings, BetMGM, and FanDuel, as well as other top names in the industry. This measure will need to garner 997,139 valid signatures by May to qualify for the November 2022 ballot.  [Sports Gambling Initiative, August 31]
  • A coalition of California cities submitted a draft initiative to include regulated sports betting on the November 2022 ballot. Supporters of this initiative hope to block the tribal casino monopoly initiative. Proponents will need to gather 997,139 valid signatures to qualify the Act by April to see this on the November 2022 ballot. [Sports Wagering Initiative, August 9]

May 2021

  • The State reports that 1,061,282 signatures were valid. This is over 64,000 more than the minimum requirement to appear on the ballot. [CA Secretary of State, May 26]

December 2020

  • The Tribal group named the Coalition to Authorize Regulated Sports Wagering, reported filing with about 1.4 million signatures. Due to Covid restrictions, counties were not required to report the number of valid signatures according to the random sample until March 9th, 2021. [Executive Order, December 14]

September 2020

  • California Superior Court grants second extension for Tribes to collect signatures for ballot measure. The new deadline is now December 14th, 2020. The reasons for this second extension are also due to Covid-19 restrictions in the state of California. [Court Order, September 21]

July 2020

  • Judge James P. Arguelles grants extension to Tribes to collect signatures. Arguelles orders the deadline extension to October 12th, saying "Despite Petitioners’ diligence, the 180-day deadline coupled with Executive Branch orders responding to the COVID-19 pandemic significantly inhibits Petitioners’ ability to place their initiative on the November 2022 ballot." [Court Order, July 3]

June 2020

  • Senator Dodd pulls SCA 6. The bill would have needed a two-thirds vote and pass through both chambers by the June 25th deadline to get on the November 2020 ballot. Dodd cites a combination of the Covid-19 pandemic and legislative deadlines as his reason for withdrawing the bill. [Senate News, June 22]
  • Tribal Leaders sue the state to extend their deadline for signatures. The Tribes asked the court to extend the deadline of July 20th, 2020 until all California counties have moved into the third reopening states following the stay-at-home order by at least 90 days. [LA Times, June 9]
  • The state legislature game back in session. The State Senate pushed SCA 6 into the Senate Appropriations Committee. There, legislators hammered out details of how the industry would work in this bill. Tribal Casinos and racetracks were to be the only places allowed to operate brick-and-mortar sportsbooks and those locations could partner with online sports betting platforms like DraftKings or BetMGM to offer online sports betting. [SCA-6, June 2]

March 2020

  • The COVID crisis halts sports betting legalization efforts. The tribes were well on their way to get the signatures needed for the ballot measure by the deadline in late April, but due to the lockdown ordered in California, they were unable to continue to gather signatures. In the same thread, although legislators opposed the terms of the tribes’ proposal, they were unable to take any action on ACA 16 or SCA 6 as they stopped voting on bills.  [Office of Gov. Newsom, March 19]

November 2019

  • 18 of the California’s tribes come together to file petition getting sports betting on the November 2020 ballot. The terms of this petition aren’t as favorable to sports betting enthusiasts as the only places that sportsbook could exist are in tribal casinos and there’s no mention of online sports betting. The tribe needs to gain around 1,000,000 signatures to get the measure on the 2020 ballot.   

June 2019

  • Senator Bill Dodd introduces a sports wagering bill. This bill is introduced as a matching bill to ACA 16 and is known as “The California Sports Wagering and Consumer Protection Act.” [SCA 6, June 27]
  • Assemblyman Adam Gray introduced a sports betting bill. This bill proposes allowing California residents to vote on amending the Constitution of the State to allow for legal gambling.[ACA 16, June 27]

California Sports Betting Tips

Icon basketball Sports Betting for Beginners 

If you’re new to sports betting in California, you likely have questions: How much should you be betting? Where should you be betting on the Warriors win totals? How do you find the best odds for a Clippers game? Every sport and bet type comes with different nuances

Check out our sports betting tips for beginners so you can get started. 

Icon baseball Sports Betting Glossary 

The sports betting lexicon is vast and sometimes confusing, especially to new bettors. Before CA sports betting is legalized, you have time to brush up on betting terms so you'll be completely prepared to place all different kinds of wagers that will become available in the Golden State.

Check out our sports betting glossary to get up to speed with every term you might need to know before a parlay or prop bet.

Icon football Sports Betting Mistakes to Avoid 

Whether you’re betting on a Lakers game totals or A's futures, sports betting isn't easy. It’s important to be responsible and not overextend yourself.

Here are some sports betting mistakes to avoid.

Sportsbooks expected to come to California

FanDuel banner FanDuel

FanDuel is a leader in both sports wagering and daily fantasy sports, with a foothold in California already.  FanDuel has arguably one of the best legal sportsbooks due to its sleek interface, wide range of betting options, and robust technical construction to create a superior betting experience. This book is available in many states and has one of the top mobile apps in the industry, so expect it to expand into the California space as a sportsbook once it's legal.

DraftKings banner DraftKings

DraftKings is one of the leaders in the sports betting industry. From bonuses and promotions to available markets, DraftKings Sportsbook is sure to please. Their user-friendly interface makes it easy to place any spread, total, or prop bet you can find. Savvy bettors take advantage of high-value sign-up offers, promotions, codes, and daily boosts to find +EV (expected value) opportunities. This is an area DraftKings excels in and could draw California users to.

BetMGM banner BetMGM

BetMGM is one of the premier names in legal online sports betting. Backed by MGM Resorts International, BetMGM is a sportsbook that has a significant amount of brand recognition and influence. BetMGM continues to expand its reach across the nation as it has successfully launched in 13 betting states, and California could be the next. Compelling new and established user promotions is just one reason that BetMGM is definitely a sportsbook worth considering. To wager in a state with legalized sports betting, consider selecting a renowned betting platform like BetMGM and take advantage of the BetMGM Sportsbook Promo Code.

How to Sign Up for a Sportsbook in California (when legal & live)

Obviously, not all sportsbooks are the same, but there is a general set of steps that they all have to go through in order to allow you to begin betting on their apps or websites.

Here's how to sign up for a sportsbook:

Step 1. Go to whichever sportsbook app or website you've decided you'd like to start betting with.

Step 2. Enter your details:

  • Email
  • Username 
  • Create a Secure Password
  • Legal Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Home Address
  • Last four digits of your SSN 

Step 3. Confirm your age and eligibility (must be 21+ years old). 

You're ready to deposit and bet! 

Daily Fantasy Sports and Social Sportsbooks in California

Legal sports betting has not been approved in California just yet, but there are other gaming options for those that are interested in the state. Daily fantasy sports and social sportsbooks are currently available to play in the state. Below are some of our favorite options from a competitive DFS field in California:

  • PrizePicks: This DFS platform is at the top of the field for the millions of users who enjoy daily fantasy sports. Our PrizePicks review shows you everything you need to know about playing there in California.
  • Fliff Social Sportsbook: Fliff is the most popular "social sportsbook" in California, where users can place bets with social currencies on sporting events everyday. Our Fliff Social Sportsbook review goes over their great promo code and other gaming options.
  • Betr Picks: Betr is famously known as the "Jake Paul" gaming platform, and their DFS option of Betr Picks is a nice one to check out in California as well.
  • Underdog: One of the fastest rising wagering platforms has been the Underdog brand. Underdog Fantasy is another popular California DFS platform that gives new users a great welcome offer as they get used to the impressive app.
  • Sleeper: Ignore the "sleepy" name, this DFS app is another terrific option to have fun with some sports options in California. Sleeper Fantasy offers one of the most lucrative new user bonuses in California for those that play DFS games. 
  • Dabble Fantasy: This DFS platform has been quickly coming over to more American states as they grow their reputation across the globe. Dabble Fantasy is a good option for California DFS users to try out and possibly add to their rotation.
  • Boom Fantasy: Boom is another solid DFS platform to consider for California gamers. They have a great new user offer and have expanded up to 20+ states in America.
  • Vivid Picks: This DFS option has been rising since entering the game in 2022. Their new user offer is actually one of the best to choose from when picking a DFS platform in California to play on.
  • SuperDraft: Another recent addition to the California DFS game, SuperDraft is part of Caesars Entertainment. SuperDraft even offers a wider option of sports to pick from in CA when using the app. 
  • OwnersBox: Last but definitely not least we have OwnersBox, which has a terrific new user bonus for CA DFS players. OwnersBox is known for having a really fun variety of games and contests for players to choose from daily.

Social Casinos in California

Online casinos are far from being legal in California, but social casinos are a safe and legal way to play similar games online in the state. Here are a few social casinos that have great sign up bonuses in California:

  • High 5 Casino: Want to have fun and win social currency on a social casino in California? Then High 5 Casino is one of the best choices you could make today! High 5 Casino has a great reputation amongst social casinos for being safe, informative and entertaining for their users.
  • Pulsz Social Casino: This social casino is in almost every single state in the country, but California players can definitely enjoy the Pulsz Casino promo code today.
  • WOW Vegas Social Casino: Another massively popular social casino option in California is WOW Vegas. They have many popular casino games to choose from in CA, as well as some special contests and prizes to take part in too.
California Teams

California Teams to Bet on

California has more professional sports teams than any other state, which means there's a team for everyone to root for, no matter your taste. Even if you only count the teams at the highest level of competition in their respective sports, including three football teams, five basketball teams, five baseball teams, three hockey teams, and four soccer teams!

Pro Sports Teams

NFL LogoNFL Betting in California

San Francisco 49ers logoSan Francisco 49ers |  49ers Odds

The 49ers have won five Super Bowls, which is tied for the third-most in NFL history. They play in the NFC West and have been playing their home games at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara since 2014. The 49ers are currently coached by Kyle Shanahan. Even though they've made three Super Bowls since 2013, their last victory in the big game came in 1994 when they beat the San Diego Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX.

Los Angeles Rams logoLos Angeles Rams | Rams Odds

The LA Rams recently won Super Bowl LVI. This was their second championship win in team history during the Super Bowl era. Moreover, the Rams have found their permanent home in the new SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, which opened in September 2020 and is also home to the LA Chargers. They play in the NFC West and are coached by the young whiz kid, Sean McVay.

Los Angeles Chargers logoLos Angeles Chargers | Chargers Odds

The Chargers now play in the gorgeous new SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, which they share with the LA Rams. The Chargers play in the AFC West and are now coached by Jim Harbaugh after he won the 2023 CFP National Championship as Michigan's head coach.

Recommended Resource: How to Bet on Football Guide

 

NBA Logo NBA Betting in California

Los Angeles Lakers logoLos Angeles Lakers |  Lakers Odds 

The Lakers are tied with the Boston Celtics with the most NBA Finals wins (17) in NBA history. They are in the Pacific Division in the Western Conference and play their home games are at the Crypto.com Arena in downtown LA. Darvin Ham is coaching LeBron and the Lakers currently.

Los Angeles Clippers logoLos Angeles Clippers | Clippers Odds

The Clippers are the only NBA team in California that have yet to win a championship. They are in the Pacific Division in the Western Conference and play their home games at the Crypto.com Arena in LA, but will be moving to the Intuit Dome in late 2024. They are coached by Tyronn Lue.

Golden State Warriors logoGolden State Warriors |  Warriors Odds

The Warriors have won seven championships in franchise history, with four being won in the last decade during the Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green era. The Dubs are part of the Pacific Division in the Western Conference and play their home games in the brand new Chase Center in San Francisco. Steve Kerr is still at the helm as the Warriors' head coach.

Sacramento Kings logoSacramento Kings |  Kings Odds

As one of the least successful NBA teams in California, the Kings haven't won the NBA Finals since their lone championship season in 1951. Sacramento is in the Pacific Division in the Western Conference and play their home games at the Golden 1 Center. Mike Brown has been successful as the Kings' head coach recently.

Recommended Resource: How to Bet On Basketball Guide

MLB Logo MLB Betting in California

Los Angeles Dodgers logoLos Angeles Dodgers | Dodgers Odds

The LA Dodgers are one of the most storied franchises in MLB history. Since their inception in 1883, they've won seven World Series titles. Dodger fans can enjoy home games at Dodger Stadium, the third-oldest stadium in baseball. The Dodgers are in the NL West and are managed by Dave Roberts.

Los Angeles Angels logoLos Angeles Angels | Angels Odds

As the winners of one World Series back in 2002, the Angels have struggled to consistently stay atop their division, failing to reach the playoffs in many of their recent seasons. The Angels are members of the AL West and play their home games at the Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Ron Washington is now the manager of the LA Angels.

San Francisco Giants logoSan Francisco Giants | Giants Odds

The Giants began their history at the same time as the Dodgers; in 1883. Since then, SF has won eight World Series titles, which is one more than the Dodgers have won in their history. Three of the eight titles were won between 2010-2014, as they interestingly failed to reach the playoffs in between their championship seasons. As part of the NL West, the Giants play at Oracle Park in SoMa, SF and are managed by Bob Melvin.

Oakland Athletics logoOakland Athletics | Athletics Odds

The "Moneyball" team has won nine World Series titles in franchise history. Since winning their last title in 1989, the Oakland A's have bragging rights over their fellow Californian MLB teams, since they have won more World Series titles than all of them. The A's are part of the AL West and have played their home games at the RingCentral Coliseum. Mark Kotsay is currently the manager of the Oakland A's. 

San Diego Padres logoSan Diego Padres | Padres Odds

The Padres are still the only MLB team in California to never win a World Series title. The Padres are in the NL West and play their home games at Petco Park in San Diego. They are now managed by Mike Shildt.

Recommended Resource: How to Bet on Baseball Guide

NHL LogoNHL Betting in California

Los Angeles Kings logoLos Angeles Kings | Kings Odds

The Kings are the first NHL team in California. They have won two Stanley Cups in their history, both wins coming in 2012 and 2014. They are part of the Pacific Division in the Western Conference and call the Crypto.com Arena home. Jim Hiller is the interim head coach of the LA Kings.

 

Anaheim Ducks logoAnaheim Ducks | Ducks Odds

Formerly known as "The Mighty Ducks," Anaheim joined the NHL in 1993 and won their first Stanley cup in 2007, which was the first year they changed their name to the Anaheim Ducks. The Ducks are a Pacific Division team in the Western Conference and play their home games at the Honda Center in Anaheim. Anaheim is coached by Greg Cronin.

San Jose Sharks logoSan Jose Sharks | Sharks Odds

As the only NHL team located in the San Francisco Bay area, the Sharks have made playoff appearances in most of their seasons since their inception in 1991. The Sharks are members of the Pacific Division in the Western Conference. Their home ice, often referred to as the shark tank, is the SAP Center in San Jose. David Quinn coaches San Jose.

Recommended Resource: How to Bet On Hockey Guide

MLS LogoMLS Betting in California

LA Galaxy logo Los Angeles Galaxy

The LA Galaxy is one of the most prestigious and successful clubs in the MLS. The Galaxy was one of 10 MLS charter members and began to play in 1996. Their accolades include playing in nine MLS Cups (5 wins), two U.S. Open Cups, and one CONCACAF Champions' Cup. LA plays at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA and are coached by Greg Vanney.

Los Angeles FC logo Los Angeles FC

Los Angeles FC was a new expansion MLS team in 2014, announced just three days after Chivas USA dissolved. LAFC would be a fresh start, with new black and gold colors and a new state-of-the-art stadium. LAFC plays their home games at the beautiful open-air Banc of California Stadium in the Exposition Park neighborhood of Los Angeles.

LAFC had the best season for an MLS expansion club, earning 57 points and even making the playoffs in their inaugural season in 2018. The team has had an impressive start in the MLS: they've won 1 MLS Cup, 2 Supporters Shields, and won the Western Conference twice as well. LAFC is coached by Steve Cherundolo and will hope to keep filling their trophy case.

San Jose Earthquakes logo San Jose Earthquakes

The San Jose Earthquakes are known as the first club to play in and win the first game in MLS history. Since then, the Quakes have won two Supporters' Shields and two MLS Cups. They play their home games in PayPal Park in San Jose and are coached by Luchi Gonzalez.

Recommended Resource: How to Bet On Soccer Guide

College Sports Teams in CA

College Football Betting in California

USC Trojans logo USC Trojans Football | Trojans Odds 

USC is one of the great college football traditions, with the cardinal and gold uniforms among the most iconic in football. USC claims 11 national championships, ranking them among the elite football programs. USC was a founding member of the Pac-12 and have won 39 conference championships. Starting in 2024, USC will be playing in the Big Ten. The Trojans play their home games at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and are coached by Lincoln Riley. 

UCLA Bruins logo UCLA Bruins Football | Bruins Odds

In comparison to the other campus sports, the Bruins haven't been as successful, as they won their only national championship in 1954. Historically, the Bruins have a sub-.500 record in 38 bowl games and have only one Heisman winner, Gary Beban. UCLA will be playing in the Pac-12 until transferring to the Big Ten in 2024. The Bruins play their home games at the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena and are coached by the inspiring DeShaun Foster.

Stanford Cardinal logo Stanford Cardinal Football | Cardinal Odds

As a Pac-12 school, Stanford has a long and rich football tradition and tends to play old-school football, perhaps appropriate since the program has such a long history. Stanford played in the first-ever Rose Bowl in 1902 and won two national championships in 1926 and 1940. The Cardinal plays at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto and are coached by Troy Taylor. 

California Golden Bears logo California Golden Bears Football | Golden Bears Odds

The California Golden Bears are known to be one of the least successful CA college football programs, having won their last national championship 17 years ago. Additionally, they've also won 14 conference championships and have been playing in the Pac-12 Conference (or some version of it) since 1916. The Golden Bears play their home games at California Memorial Stadium on campus in Berkeley and are coached by Justin Wilcox.

Fresno State Bulldogs logo Fresno State Bulldogs Football | Bulldogs Odds

The Bulldogs have bounced around conferences over the years but moved from the Western Athletic Conference to the Mountain West in 2012, where they compete today. Fresno State plays its home games on campus at Bulldog Stadium in Fresno and are coached by Jeff Tedford.

San Diego Aztecs logo San Diego State Aztecs Football | Aztecs Odds

San Diego State rose to prominence as a football program under Hall of Fame coach Don Coryell, known for his incredible Air Coryell offense. The Aztecs won back-to-back-to-back national championships under Coryell from 1966 through 1968 before joining Division I. San Diego State plays their home games in the new Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. The Aztecs are coached by Sean Lewis.

San Jose State Spartans logo San Jose State Spartans Football | Spartans Odds

The Spartans play at CEFCU Stadium in San Jose and are coached by Ken Niumatalolo.

 We've got a few recommended resources to help you bet with insight on college football in California:

College Basketball Betting in California

UCLA Bruins logo UCLA Bruins Men's Basketball | Bruins Odds

No men's basketball program has won more NCAA championships (11) than the UCLA Bruins. The Bruins have played basketball for over a century, but the glory days certainly came under legendary Hall of Fame coach John Wooden. The Wizard of Westwood led UCLA to 10 national championships between 1964 and 1975, one of the greatest dynasties in American sports history. UCLA plays in the Pac-12 and have won many conference championships. The Bruins play their home games at Pauley Pavilion in the Westwood district of LA and are coached by Mick Cronin.

USC Trojans logo USC Trojans Men's Basketball | Trojans Odds

Back in the day, USC men's basketball was a national powerhouse. The Trojans have won many conference titles, but have yet to win an NCAA Championship in their extensive history. USC competes in the Pac-12 conference, but its men's basketball program does not stack up today with its other elite athletic programs. The Trojans play their home games at the Galen Center in LA and are coached by Andy Enfield.

California Golden Bears logo California Golden Bears Men's Basketball | Golden Bears Odds

The Golden Bears basketball program has seen better days. They have won 14 conference championships in school history. The last and only time the Golden Bears cut down the nets as national champions was in 1959 when the PCC became the AAWU Conference (known today as the Pac-12). Cal's home floor is located at the Haas Pavilion in Berkeley and they are coached by Mark Madsen. 

Stanford Cardinal logo Stanford Cardinal Men's Basketball | Cardinal Odds

Today, the Cardinal is not an exceptionally decorated men's basketball program, but Stanford did win their only national championship in 1942. Stanford competes in the Pac-12, where they've won five conference championships. They play at Maples Pavilion in Palo Alto and are coached by Jerod Haase.

San Diego Aztecs logo San Diego State Aztecs Men's Basketball | Aztecs Odds

San Diego State has risen to prominence in the college basketball world over the last couple of decades. San Diego State has been a part of the Mountain West Conference since 1999 and play their home games at Viejas Arena on campus in San Diego. Brian Dutcher has had success as the current coach of the Aztecs.

St. Mary's Gaels logo St. Mary's Gaels Men's Basketball | Gaels Odds

St. Mary's has developed a reputation as one of the best mid-major programs, especially on the West Coast. As constant qualifiers of the NCAA Tournament over the last decade, the Gaels have yet to appear in the Final since 1959. They've won seven conference titles and play home games in the University Credit Union Pavilion in Moraga. Randy Bennett has been the head coach since 2001.

San Francisco Dons logo San Francisco Dons Men's Basketball | Dons Odds

You may not know much about San Francisco Dons basketball today, but they won two national championships back in 1955 in 1956 when Hall of Famer Bill Russell led the way. San Francisco has the winningest program in the West Coast Conference. The Dons play their home games at the War Memorial Gym on campus, commonly referred to as "The Hilltop." Chris Gerlufsen is now the head coach of the Dons.

We've got a few recommended resources to help you bet on college basketball in CA:

Other CA Sports Betting Events

The Golden State has plenty of traditional sporting events to entertain sports fans throughout the year with an endless college and pro teams list. But sports don't stop there! In CA, they're just getting started:

The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup

Los Angeles will be one of the many North American cities to host the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, the biggest soccer tournament in the world. Lionel Messi and Argentina won it all in 2022, but with Messi likely not returning in 2026 a new team may have the chance to win it all.

The 2028 Summer Olympics

California has hosted the Olympics three times. Los Angeles hosted twice previously, in 1932 and 1984, while Squaw Valley hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics. Now LA will host the Olympics for the third time in 2028, the first Summer Olympics in the U.S. since Atlanta in 1996. Expect plenty of action at all of LA's biggest and most well-known venues, including but not limited to SoFi Stadium, the Rose Bowl, The Forum, Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and Banc of California Stadium. The Olympics could be a severe financial boon to the LA metro area.

NASCAR Cup Series & Formula One Auto Racing

California has been a hub for auto racing and motorsports for many years. The Auto Club 400 is a 400-mile NASCAR Cup Series race held at the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California. The Sonoma Raceway is another famous track hosting NASCAR and IndyCar events. Long Beach has annual IndyCar Series and Formula One events, and there are racing events throughout the state thanks to its year-round fair weather.

California Casinos & (Potential) Future Sportsbook Locations

Pechanga Resort Casino Website

Pechanga Casino has the largest casino floor in the state of California at 188,000 square feet of gaming space. The casino features over 5,000 slot machines, 158 state-of-the-art table games, a 700-seat bingo room, a non-smoking poker room, and a High Limit salon. The casino reopened for business on June 1.

Morongo Casino, Resort and Spa

Morongo Casino is one of only six AAA four-diamond casino resorts in California, with 148,000 square feet of casino floor gaming and over 2,000 slot machines and table games. The casino features a retro-1960s interior look with a decorative ceiling and back-lit drapes. Morongo has a 22-table poker room along with a high-limit room.

Yaamava' Resort & Casino at San Manuel Website

Located just outside of San Bernardino, Yaamava' Casino & Resort is notable for its many themed sections. Guests can go for 21 at the Blazing 7s Blackjack Arena or take a trip to Asia in the Lotus 8 Palace. You can also visit the Rockin' Casino and its 16 table games and over 900 slot machines, and of course, there's a High Limit section too. If it's food you're looking for, you can visit Rock & Brews, Chingon Kitchen, Big Mo' Cafe, and TuTu's Food Court, or put your feet up and relax at the Bear Springs Hotel.

Pala Casino Spa and Resort

Operated by the Pala Band of Mission Indians, Pala Casino has 84 table games and over 2,200 slot machines in 86,000 square feet of gaming space just northeast of San Diego. The venue also offers a 500-room hotel, an 11,000-square-foot spa, and Luis Rey's Sports Bar.

Red Hawk Casino Website

Located on a hilltop a few minutes east of Sacramento, Red Hawk Casino boasts traditional architecture and beautiful natural views. The casino has a variety of table games and over 2,000 slot machines along with a special High Limit area for play, and hungry bettors can visit Henry's Steakhouse or Pearl Asian Cuisine.

Viejas Casino and Resort

Viejas originally started as a bingo room and remains one of the best in the state. It also features a 133,000-square-foot gaming floor with over 2,500 slot machines, 86 table games, and an off-track betting facility in the mountains east of San Diego. Other amenities include a coffee bar, three restaurants, and a nearby outlet mall.

Chumash Casino Resort

Located in the heart of wine country, Chumash Casino offers 115,000 square feet of casino gaming, featuring 2,300 slot machines and over 45 table games. The AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel has 320 rooms, along with a 135-foot tower that gives hotel guests an incredible view of the Santa Ynez Valley below, and visitors can also frequent the Samala Showroom for bingo.

Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa

Just outside the San Jacinto Mountains near Palm Springs, Agua Caliente is a little taste of gamblers paradise with slot and poker machines, a private live poker room, and an endless array of slot machines. Resort amenities include two cafes, a deli, a steakhouse, and a buffet along with an outdoor pool, bar, and grill and live entertainment. The casino is operating at 50% capacity during the pandemic with mandatory masks.

Harrah's Southern California Resort and Casino

Harrah's SoCal is one of 50 properties under the Harrah's umbrella, home to ESPN's World Series of Poker and operated by Caesars. The Harrah's land was renamed Funner in 2016, and Harrah's SoCal is committed to fun. The venue offers nearly 60,000 square feet of casino gaming with over 1,000 slot machines. You've got plenty of options if you're hungry, including Che Bello, 'Ritas Cantina, Earl of Sandwich, SR76 Beerworks, Fiore, and more.

Blue Lake Casino & Hotel

Blue Lake Casino is one of the best in Northern California, just a few miles from Eureka on the picturesque Blue Lake in the Redwoods of Humboldt County. The Casino features 600 slot machines, live poker, and 24-hour table games. Guests can also enjoy fine dining at Alice's Restaurant, Sushi Blue, the Lily Pad Cafe and the Wave Lounge.

California stadium

Sam was a sports betting reporter for The Action Network, who covered the latest legal and industry news, among other things. A two-time Society of Business Editors and Writers award winner, Sam is based out of New York City. His interests are limited to the New York Knicks, combing through government regulations and his rescue-pup, Bowie.

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California Sports Betting FAQ
Commonly asked questions about sports betting in the Golden State.
Is sports betting legal in California?

Sports betting is not legal in California yet. The state's tribal and commercial online wagering initiatives were not approved on the Nov. 2022 ballot, which pushes legalization into 2024 at the latest. 

Can I play PrizePicks in California?

As of right now, yes you can play PrizePicks in California! If you use our PrizePicks promo code ACTION6, you can get a deposit match up to $100.

California is currently reviewing if DFS apps like PrizePicks are legal in the state. We expect some news to come in 2024 on if pick'em style DFS apps like PrizePicks can continue operating in the Golden State.

Who will regulate online sports betting in California?

It is expected that the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) and the the Bureau of Gambling Control will be involved in sports betting regulation.

Are offshore sportsbooks legal in California?

Sports betting or gambling websites that are not regulated by the state of California are considered illegal. Your money is never secure on offshore sites that are not regulated by a legal entity. Websites like MyBookie and Bovada are common examples of offshore gambling operators.

Is FanDuel Sportsbook legal in California?

FanDuel Sportsbook is not legal in California. Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) are not explicitly legal in the state, but operators like DraftKings and FanDuel still accept players in CA.