Florida Sports Betting

While Florida's sports betting legalization continues to be an issue, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is available to get in on the sports gaming fun. Users pick a few of their favorite players like Jimmy Butler or Tom Brady, and choose over/under totals for a chance to win cash. New users can claim a deposit match up to $100. 

Online sports wagering in Florida has ended after it was open for less than a month in Nov. 2021.

In a decision rendered Nov. 22, 2022, federal judge Dabney Friedrich agreed with the plaintiff and casino-owner West Flagler Associates that the decision to allow the Seminole Tribe and the Hard Rock Sportsbook to offer mobile sports betting is not legal. Offering broad mobile betting to people when they are not on tribal land violates the Indian Gaming Regulation Act provisions. 

Sports betting lawyer Dan Wallach said the decision was a no-brainer. “It’s obvious to any law school student, if you divorce the political realities going on here, that 100 out of 100 times, they’d call what was done illegal,” Wallach said.

Florida officials and the Seminole Tribe of Florida on Nov. 1, 2021, announced a groundbreaking deal that would open the door to online and retail sports betting in the state. The state's Hard Rock Sportsbook launched online betting through its mobile app on Nov. 1.

However, sports bettors were only able to wager on the Hard Rock app for one month. Betting on the app was suspended in early December after an appellate court ruling rejected the Seminole Tribe's request to continue online sports betting. Appeals have failed so far.

Hard Rock Sportsbook was the only shop operating to start. When sports betting was legal, FL did not require in-person sign-ups. The tribe’s new sports betting app is available on iPhones and Android phones, but bettors cannot wager on it at this time.

Florida's Legalization Timeline

It's still in the process of getting sports betting to the goal line. We'll bet you care more about the sports of it all than the legal history, but here are some of the important events along the way:

July 2022

The D.C. Circuit will reopen discussions about the tribal sports betting compact case in Aug. 2023. When these conversations conclude, responses will be open sometime in the fall of 2023. The D.C. Circuit is a major governing body so if all goes well, sports betting could be back on in Florida in late 2023. [Action Network, July 13]

January 2022

Sports betting initiative #21-13 failed to make the Nov. 2022 ballot. The FanDuel and DraftKings-backed initiative was unable to meet required signatures to appear on the upcoming Nov. 2022 ballot, which pushes back legalization until at least 2024. 

December 2021

Hard Rock Sportsbook app shut down for now. The Hard Rock Sportsbook suspended sports betting on its app on Saturday, Dec. 4 after the FL sports betting compact with the Seminole Tribe was shut down in November. An appellate court rejected the tribe's request for the Hard Rock app to continue taking bets while the Seminoles appeal the November decision by federal judge Dabney Friedrich. [Hard Rock Suspends Betting on Sportsbook App, Dec. 4]

November 2021

Florida sports betting compact with Seminoles struck down. On Nov. 22, 2021, federal judge Dabney Friedrich agreed with plaintiff West Flagler Associates, which owns casinos in the state, that the decision to allow the Seminole Tribe (partnered with Hard Rock) to offer mobile sports betting to people when they are not on tribal land violates the provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulation Act. An appeal from the Department of the Interior with the Seminole Tribe is expected to follow. [FL Online Sports Betting Halted, Nov. 23]

Florida online sports betting goes live with surprise Hard Rock Sportsbook launch. Hard Rock Sportsbook made a big move to start November, announcing that it launched online betting through its mobile app. Hard Rock Sportsbook — which is also stationed in New Jersey and Iowa — will be the only shop operating to start. Florida does not require in-person sign-ups. [Hard Rock Sportsbook Launches, Nov. 1]

September 2021

  Gov. DeSantis and the Seminole Tribe both filed briefs in support of Florida’s gaming compact. They filed briefs in both Florida and in Washington D.C., arguing that the opponents of the measure didn’t have the law on their side. [Sept. 1]

August 2021

 Owner of Magic City Casino and the Bonita Springs Poker file another lawsuit. This one is filed in the US District Court in DC, which is home to the Department of Interior. The lawsuit argues that Deb Haaland exceeded her authority when she approved the compact. [Dockets and Filings, Aug. 12]

  The United States Department of the Interior approves of the compact. Or rather, because they’ve taken no action to approve or disapprove the Compact before the Aug. 5 deadline, the Compact is considered approved. [US DOI, Aug. 6]

July 2021

  Owner of Magic City Casino and the Bonita Springs Poker Room files a federal lawsuit challenging the Florida gaming compact. The lawsuit argues that the compact authorizing sports betting outside of tribal lands violates the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The big question is whether a bet is deemed to be placed on tribal land solely because of the location of the server. [Dockets and Filings, July 2]

June 2021

  DraftKings and FanDuel create the Florida Education Champions. This coalition is formed with the goal of gathering the needed signatures for their initiative to legalize sports betting to land on the 2022 ballot in front of Florida voters. [Florida Education Champions Site, June 23]

  Not everyone is happy about the compact. Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber writes a letter to the Secretary of Interior asking her to reject the compact. Since the compact involves tribal issues, it has to be approved by the Department of Interior. [Mayor Gelber Letter, June 3]

May 2021

  Gov. DeSantis signs the Compact. The compact that was approved by the Florida legislature body is signed by the Governor; the compact will provide Florida with a minimum of $2.5 billion in new revenue over five years.

  The Florida House approves the agreement. Just one day after the Senate approved the sports betting agreement, the Florida House of Representatives does the same. [SB 2-A, May 19]

  The Florida Senate votes to approve the agreement. In a 38-1 vote, the Senate approves the agreement between the state government and the Seminole Tribe. [May 18]

  The special session to consider the legal sports betting bill opens. This bill would incorporate the provisions of the Gaming Compact reached with the Seminole Tribe. [May 17]

  The draft of the sports betting bill is introduced. The draft is introduced just ahead of the start of the Senate’s special session scheduled for May 17. [May 14]

April 2021

  Agreement reached with Seminole Tribe. Gov. DeSantis announces the details of a much-anticipated agreement between the state and the Seminole Tribe that helps pave the way for legal sports wagering. [Gaming Compact, April 23]

March 2021

  Gov. Ron DeSantis announces that they’re “getting close” to an agreement with the Seminole Tribe. Government officials have been in closed door discussions with the tribe over a gaming deal that would expand the industry and legalize sports betting. They hope to reach an agreement before the end of the legislative session ends on April 30. [Miami Herald, March 18]

March 2020

  The 2020 legislative session ended without a new sports wagering law. Lawmakers did get to the table with the Seminole Tribe to negotiate but that didn’t happen until 10 days before the session was due to end. [Sun Sentinel, March 13]

How Florida Compares: The FL Sports Betting Report Card

We've graded Florida on its sports betting bill and experience relative to other states on crucial categories that set the market's tone: the number of operators, tax rates, mobile offerings, and more. We're still learning more about the local market and will revise this scorecard as details unfold.

How to Place a Sports Bet in FL - On hold

Sports fans with a mobile phone in Florida were able to place their first legal bets in November and early December. Although new wagers on the Hard Rock Sportsbook have been suspended for now, here's how you can register a new account when it returns:

Step 1: Choose a Legal Sportsbook (when Hard Rock Sportsbook relaunches)

In sports betting, it's best practice to have accounts at multiple sportsbooks to get the best price on every game you bet on. This is known as "line shopping," and covered on our YouTube channel here.

Step 2: Sign Up & Verify 

Fill out all the required fields for a new sports bettor in the state: full legal name, email address, home address, phone number and date of birth. Hard Rock may ask you for a driver’s license or social security number to verify your identity. These questions and details are all standard measures sportsbooks take to protect you.

Step 3: Deposit with Preferred Payment

The Hard Rock will take you to the deposit screen once you’ve put in your personal information. Select your payment method, then click deposit.

Our preference is direct deposit via a bank account for speed. This way when you cash out, the money will be accessible in your checking account right away instead of being credited back to a card in a few days.

Step 4: Place an Online Bet

Here’s how to place your first wager. Remember — the app or website will geo-locate you to confirm you’re actually in FL before you’re able to bet.

• Navigate to your desired sport 
• Head to your bet slip
• Select your bet type 
• Enter your bet amount
• Submit

That's it! You’ve just placed your first legal sports bet. 

  NFL Betting in Florida

 Miami Dolphins 

The oldest professional sports franchise in Florida, the Miami Dolphins joined the American Football League (AFL) as an expansion team in 1966. The franchise moved to the NFL as part of the 1970 merger and instantly became a powerhouse in the league. After losing in Super Bowl VI, the Dolphins responded with a perfect season — the only team to ever accomplish this feat — en route to its first-ever Super Bowl in 1972. They would win back-to-back championships a year later under Hall of Fame head coach Don Shula.

Miami has appeared in two championships since 1973, losing both games. They have made the playoffs on 23 separate occasions and rank second in the AFC East with 13 division titles. The franchise has made the playoffs just once in the last decade, falling just short last season despite a 10-6 record. The Dolphins play their home games at Hard Rock Stadium and are coached by Brian Flores, entering his third year at the helm.

Dolphins Odds

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers joined the NFL as an expansion team in 1976 and struggled to find their footing early. An inaugural winless season was met with just three .500 seasons or better in 21 years. The Bucs would secure their first playoff berth in 15 years in 1997 and return to the postseason in five of six years. The franchise won its first-ever Super Bowl in 2002, a 48-21 thrashing of the Oakland Raiders. The championship became known as the 'Gruden Bowl' because Oakland traded head coach Jon Gruden to Tampa Bay ahead of that 2002 season.

Despite having the NFL's lowest winning percentage (.397), the Buccaneers are currently defending Super Bowl champions. The franchise brought in longtime quarterback Tom Brady and, alongside a dominant defense, defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, 31-9, to win its second championship. The Bucs play their home games at Raymond James Stadium and are coached by Bruce Arians.

Buccaneers Odds

Jacksonville Jaguars

The third youngest franchise in the NFL, the Jacksonville Jaguars joined as an expansion team in 1995. The Jags would make the playoffs in four of their first five seasons, including a conference championship run in 1996. Since then, however, success has come few and far between. Jacksonville has made just one playoff appearance in the last decade, an AFC South crown in 2017.

The Jaguars' future does seem to be bright since selecting Trevor Lawrence as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. They play home games at TIAA Bank Field and are coached by newly hired Urban Meyer.

Jaguars Odds

A recommended resource to help you bet on football in FL with skill:

• How to Bet on Football Guide
• Expert NFL Picks
• Keep an eye on betting activity and bet/money distribution with our NFL Public Betting data.

NBA Betting in Florida

Miami Heat

The Miami Heat joined the NBA as an expansion team in 1988, rising to relevance under head coach Pat Riley in under a decade. Though they'd never win a championship under Riley, his promotion to president of the franchise would lead to its first championship in 2006. The Heat have made the NBA playoffs in 63 percent of its seasons to the tune of six Eastern Conference titles and three NBA championships. They are known for forming the "Big Three," signing LeBron James and Chris Bosh in the 2010 offseason to pair with Dwyane Wade. That trio would make the finals four times, winning back-to-back titles between 2012-2013.

Five-time All-Star Jimmy Butler now leads the Heat. The Heat did make an NBA Finals run in the 2020 playoff bubble after the season was suspended and later resumed due to COVID-19, ultimately losing the series 4-2 to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Heat competes in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference and are coached by Erik Spoelstra. They play home games at American Airlines Arena.

Heat Odds

Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic joined the NBA as an expansion team in 1989, one season after its in-state counterpart Miami Heat. The franchise struggled in its first few seasons, but that would all change in 1992. The Magic won the lottery and drafted highly-touted center Shaquille O'Neal. They would draft Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway a year later, forming one of the NBA's most iconic duo/ However, it was a short-lived tenure, as the team would make three consecutive playoff appearances, including an NBA Finals run.

O'Neal would leave the team for Los Angeles in 1996 and the Magic would struggle severely. They wouldn't make it out of the first round of the playoffs until 2007 under the guidance of superstar center Dwight Howard. The Magic compete in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference where they have won six division titles and two conference titles. They have yet to win an NBA championship. Orlando is currently coached by Steve Clifford and plays its home games at the Amway Center.

Magic Odds

Recommended resource to help you bet with extra "magic" on basketball in FL:

• How to Bet on Basketball Guide

MLB Betting in Florida

Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays are MLB's youngest team, joining as the most recent expansion team in 1998 — as the Devil Rays — alongside the Arizona Diamondbacks. Success did not come easy for the Rays, finishing dead last in the American League East in all but one of their first 10 seasons. The franchise changed ownership in 2007, rebranding itself as the Rays.

Tampa Bay won its first-ever division title and made a World Series run the following year, in 2008. The Rays have made the playoffs five more times since, adding a pair of division titles and one more American League pennant. Tampa Bay returned to the World Series in 2020 amid a COVID-shortened season, falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers in six games. The franchise is known for its analytics approach and is led by manager Kevin Cash. The Rays play home games at Tropicana Field.

Rays Odds

Miami Marlins

The Marlins joined MLB as an expansion team in the 1993 season as the Florida Marlins. They are one of two teams to never win a National League East division title and have just three playoff appearances in their near-30-year existence. But of those postseason appearances, the Marlins have won the World Series twice. The first came in 1997, five years after its inaugural season, a seven-game series win over the Cleveland Indians. The Marlins returned six years later, in 2003, and defeated the New York Yankees.

The Marlins moved to Marlins Park in 2012 and rebranded itself as the Miami Marlins the same year. They would return to the playoffs for the first time since that 2003 World Series run in 2020, in a COVID-shortened season. The Marlins would lose first round, its first-ever postseason appearance without a World Series. They are led by manager Don Mattingly and recently hired Kim Ng as their general manager, the first female to serve that role for a North American men's sports team.

Marlins Odds

Recommended resource to help you bet on baseball:

• How to Bet on Baseball Guide

NHL Betting in Florida

 Florida Panthers 

The Florida Panthers were established in 1993 as part of an NHL expansion. They have been to the playoffs six times in its near-30-year existence including a Stanley Cup Finals run in 1995. The Panthers have not won a playoff series since that eventual sweep by the Colorado Avalanche.

The Panthers seem to have turned a corner in 2021 and are currently battling for The Presidents' Trophy, awarded to the team with the most points at season's end. They normally compete in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference, but a division realignment amid the COVID-19 pandemic has placed them in the Central Division. Florida plays its home games at BB&T Center and is coached by Joel Quenneville.

Panthers Odds

 Tampa Bay Lightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning joined the NHL as an expansion team one year before its in-state counterpart, in 1992. The franchise would struggle to find sustained success early, making the playoffs just once in 10 seasons. But the hire of John Tortorella as head coach would turn Tampa Bay around. The Lightning would win its first-ever division championship in 2003 and the Stanley Cup a year later.

The Lightning have won four Atlantic Division championships and three Eastern Conference titles. They are the defending Stanley Cup champions after making a run in the NHL bubble amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Tampa Bay has continued its dominance in 2021 and currently competes atop the newly-realigned Central Division. The team plays its home games in Amalie Arena and is coached by Jon Cooper.

Lightning Odds

Recommended resource to help you bet on hockey in Florida:

• How to Bet on Hockey Guide

MLS Betting in Florida

Orlando City SC

Joining as an expansion team in 2015, Orlando City has qualified for the playoffs just once in six seasons. It came this past year during 2020's MLS is Back Tournament. Orlando City made a run to the championship where they would eventually fall to the Portland Timbers, 2-1. The franchise plays its home games at Exploria Stadium and is coached by Óscar Pareja.

Inter Miami CF

Inter Miami joined the MLS as an expansion team, holding its inaugural season in 2020. They would play 23 games in a shortened season amid the COVID-19 pandemic, finishing 7-13-3. Inter Miami competes in the Eastern Conference and plays home games at Inter Miami CF Stadium. The franchise is coached by Phil Neville and co-owned by legendary English soccer player David Beckham.

College Sports Teams

There are 13 colleges in the Sunshine State that field Division I athletic programs, but only seven have both football and men's basketball teams. 

College Football Betting in Florida

Florida Gators Football

At the height of the program in the 2000s, the Florida Gators were among college football's most dominant. Under head coach Urban Meyer, the Gators won two National Championships — in 2006 and 2008 — both double-digit victories over its opponents. Additionally, they won a National Championship in 1996 and have eight total conference championships since its inaugural season in 1906. The Gators have appeared in 66 bowl games and has produced the sixth-most NFL first-rounders (54) in college football.

In its long-storied history, the Gators produced three Heisman winners, their latest being Tim Tebow in 2007. He would finish as a finalist both years after, one to Oklahoma's Sam Bradford who Tebow would defeat in that 2008 title game. Florida competes in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and is coached by Dan Mullen. The Gators play their home games at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium with a current capacity of 88,548 on campus in Gainesville.

Gators Odds

Florida State Seminoles Football

Like its in-state counterpart, Florida State football claims three National Championships and has produced three Heisman winners. The Seminoles rose to dominance in the late 1980s under Hall of Fame head coach Bobby Bowden, finishing inside the Top 10 rankings for 14 consecutive years starting in 1987. Bowden led the Seminoles to two National Championship wins, its latest coming in the 1999-2000 season. FSU would cap off an undefeated season with a 46-29 win over Virginia Tech.

Florida State currently competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) where they joined as part of the conference's expansion ahead of the 1992 season. The Seminoles have won 15 conference championships since — including nine straight starting in that first year as part of the ACC — and have 18 overall since its inaugural season in 1902. Florida State is coached by Mike Norvell and plays its home games at Doak Campbell Stadium with a current capacity of 79,560.

Seminoles Odds

Miami Hurricanes Football

Miami Hurricanes football remains the most storied and successful in the state of Florida, having claimed five National Championships and produced two Heisman winners. The Hurricanes currently hold the record for most first-rounders (6) and consecutive seasons with a first-rounder (14). Miami rose to prominence in the 1980s and would remain among college football's best for nearly three decades.

Commonly referred to as "The U," the program's quick rise stemmed from its players that exuded swagger on the field through trash-talking, big hits and constant dance celebrations. They changed college football so much that ESPN produced two documentaries encapsulating the events that took place and how the Hurricanes became the "Bad Boys" of the NCAA.

Miami competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference, transitioning over from the Big East in 2004. The Hurricanes are coached by Manny Diaz and play their home games at Hard Rock Stadium.

Hurricanes Odds

UCF Knights Football 

Despite joining Division I's FBS level in 1996, UCF has quickly established itself as one of the best college football programs that doesn't compete in a Power 5 conference. Since joining the American Athletic Conference in 2013, the Knights has won four conference championships. They claim one national championship — 2017 — despite not being selected for the College Football Playoff after a 13-0 season. UCF would go on to beat Auburn in the Peach Bowl, 34-27, subsequently naming itself champions.

UCF has been to five straight bowl games, including eight of the last nine seasons. The Knights play their home games at the Bounce House and are led by former Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn, who will enter his first year at the helm in 2021.

Knights Odds

USF Bulls Football

The USF Bulls football program was established in 1997 and has been a part of the American Athletic Conference since 2013. The Bulls have never won a conference championship but are 6-4 over 10 bowl appearances. They are coached by Jeff Scott and play home games at Raymond James Stadium, which they share with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Bulls Odds

Florida International (FIU) Panthers Football

Established in 2002, FIU football competed for two years at the Division I-AA level before transitioning to the FBS two years later. The Panthers are the newest Division I football program in the state of Florida and currently compete in Conference USA, where they have been since 2013. FIU has competed in five bowl games and took home a Sun Belt Conference title in 2010 before it transitioned to C-USA. The Panthers are coached by Butch Davis and play home games at Riccardo Silva Stadium on campus in Miami.

Panthers Odds

Florida Atlantic (FAU) Owls Football

Created one year before its in-state rival FIU, Florida Atlantic took a similar trajectory. After competing in Division I-AA, the Owls would move up to the FBS level as an independent in 2004. They would join the Sun Belt a year later before moving to Conference USA at the start of the 2013 season. FAU has won three conference championships and is 4-1 in bowl games. The program is led by former Florida State head coach Willie Taggart and plays home games at FAU Stadium.

Owls Odds

Recommended resources to help you bet on college football:

• College Football Betting Tips for Profitability
• College Football Betting Tips on Fading the Public

College Basketball Betting in Florida

Florida Gators Men's Basketball

The Florida Gators men's basketball program struggled to find its footing for the better part of seven decades. It wasn't until Billy Donovan took over in 1996 that the program would undergo a complete 180 and become a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Under Donovan, Florida made 14 of its 22 NCAA Tournament appearances, won seven regular-season conference championships, and was crowned back-to-back NCAA Tournament champions in 2006 and 2007. Players on that infamous Florida team include longtime NBA players Joakim Noah, Al Horford and Corey Brewer.

The Gators have made five Final Fours — four of which under Donovan — and have yet to return since his departure for the NBA. He was replaced by current head coach Mike White who just finished his sixth season at the helm. Florida's 2021 season came to an end in the Round of 32, falling at the hands of No. 15 seed Oral Roberts. The Gators play their home games at the Exactech Arena inside the Stephen C. O'Connell Center.

Gators Odds

Florida State Seminoles Men's Basketball

Largely overshadowed by the success of its football program, Florida State men's basketball has never won a championship despite 18 NCAA Tournament appearances. The Seminoles have made one Final Four, an eventual 1972 championship loss, and remain rather unsuccessful in postseason play.

Florida State currently competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The Seminoles have made four straight NCAA Tournament appearances and are led by Leonard Hamilton, now in his 19th season at the helm. They have been ranked inside the Top 25 in each of the last five seasons, slowly turning around the program that so often struggled. After falling just shy of its second straight ACC tournament championship in 2020-21, Florida State made a Sweet 16 run in the NCAA Tournament. The Seminoles play their home games at Donald L. Tucker Center.

Seminoles Odds

Miami Hurricanes Men's Basketball

Like its longtime rival Florida State, the Miami men's basketball program has largely struggled in comparison to its football team. The Hurricanes have made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, never making it past the Sweet 16 in three attempts. Its last postseason run came in 2016, knocking off Buffalo and Wichita State before falling to eventual champion Villanova.

The Hurricanes currently compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference where they have won one conference tournament (2013). The team is coached by Jim Larranaga and plays home games at the Watsco Center on campus in Coral Gables.

Hurricanes Odds

UCF Knights Men's Basketball

UCF competes in the American Athletic Conference, just like its other sports. The Knights have been a part of six conferences — as well as being an independent — since its move up to the Division I level in 1984, combining for five NCAA Tournament appearances.

The program's last postseason run came in 2019, receiving an at-large bid and knocking out VCU in the Round of 64. UCF would fall to Zion Williamson and No. 1 Duke, 77-76, after two attempts around the rim in the waning seconds fell short. The Knights are coached by Johnny Dawkins and play its home games at Addition Financial Arena on campus in Orlando.

Knights Odds

USF Bulls Men's Basketball

USF has largely struggled since its move to the American Athletic Conference in 2013, finishing above .500 just once. The Bulls have won their conference once and have three NCAA Tournament appearances, most recently in 2012. USF would win its play-in game and upset No. 5 seed Temple, its only two postseason wins in program history. The Bulls play their home games at the Yuengling Center and are coached by Brian Gregory.

Bulls Odds

Florida Gulf Coast Eagles Men's Basketball

The youngest Division I program in Florida, the Eagles have also arguably become the most notable mid-major program in the state. Since its transition took effect in 2011, Florida Gulf Coast has won three Atlantic Sun conference championships en route to three NCAA Tournament appearances, none more notable than 2013.

The Eagles made a Sweet 16 run as a No. 15 seed, upsetting Georgetown by double digits. FGCU wouldn't stop there, knocking off San Diego State by 10 and becoming the first 15 seed to ever make the Sweet 16. The Cinderella Story would end there in a loss to Florida, but the school referred to as "Dunk City" had already made history. FGCU is now coached by Michael Fly and plays its home games at Alico Arena.

Eagles Odds

Florida Atlantic (FAU) Owls Men's Basketball

The Owls compete in Conference USA, which they have never won. They did win a conference championship while part of the Atlantic Sun back in 2002, the only NCAA Tournament appearance in program history. Since Dusty May took over as head coach in 2018, FAU has finished three consecutive seasons above. 500, the first time in program history. The Owls play home games at FAU Arena on campus in Boca Raton.

Owls Odds

Florida International (FIU) Panthers Men's Basketball

FIU joined Division I as an independent in 1987 and has largely struggled to find its footing. The Panthers made the NCAA Tournament after a Cinderella run in the Trans America Athletic Conference — later rebranded as Atlantic Sun. They were the worst-seeded team in the conference tournament but would pull off three upsets en route to its first and only postseason appearance. FIU is coached by Jeremy Ballard and plays its home games at Ocean Bank Convocation Center.

Panthers Odds

North Florida Ospreys Men's Basketball

North Florida made the official transition into Division I in 2009 and have won three regular-season Atlantic Sun Conference championships since. The Ospreys haven't found the same success in postseason play, winning just one conference tournament, in 2015. They would lose in the first four of the NCAA Tournament to Robert Morris shortly after. North Florida is coached by Matthew Driscoll and plays home games at UNF Arena.

Ospreys Odds

Jacksonville Dolphins Men's Basketball

The success of Jacksonville basketball can be traced back to its early days as an independent. The Dolphins have five NCAA Tournament appearances including a run to the 1970 National Championship. They would fall to UCLA and have lost all four postseason appearances since. Jacksonville has not returned to the NCAA Tournament in the last 35 years despite back-to-back Atlantic Sun regular-season championships in 2009-10. The Dolphins are coached by Tony Jasick and play home games at Swisher Gymnasium on campus.

Dolphins Odds

Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Men's Basketball

Bethune-Cookman joined Division I in 1980 as part of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference's first expansion. Despite winning two regular-season conference championships in 2011 and 2018, Bethune-Cookman has never reached the NCAA Tournament. The Wildcats did not compete in 2021 as the college decided to shut down all spring sports due to the COVID pandemic. They are coached by Ryan Ridder and play their home games at Moore Gymnasium.

Wildcats Odds

Florida A&M Rattlers Men's Basketball

Joining Division I alongside Bethune-Cookman as part of the MEAC's expansion — they began play in 1979, one year earlier — Florida A&M basketball has found more postseason success than its in-state HBCU counterpart. The Rattlers have won four conference tournaments and made three NCAA Tournament appearances, their latest in 2007. They are 1-3 in postseason play, their lone win a First Four game against Lehigh. Florida A&M is coached by Robert McCullum and plays home games at the Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center.

Rattlers Odds

Stetson Hatters Men's Basketball

Stetson has long struggled since its move to Division I in 1971-72, failing to make the NCAA Tournament in 50 years. The Hatters compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference where their last season above .500 came in 2000. Stetson is currently coached by Donnie Jones and plays its home games at the Edmunds Center.

Hatters Odds

Recommended resources to help you bet on college basketball:

• How to Bet on College Basketball
• Trends to Know Before Betting Conference Tournaments

Other Sporting Events in Florida

Florida has a few notable events that extend beyond its in-state teams for sports fans and bettors alike to enjoy. They host eight NCAA bowl games and multiple events for the PGA, ATP and NASCAR.

Football Events in Florida

Orange Bowl

The Orange Bowl is an NCAA-certified college football game that has been held annually since 1935. It is the second-oldest bowl game in the country and is part of the New Year's Six. It is sponsored by Capital One and is held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Every three years the Orange Bowl also serves as a semifinal for the College Football Playoffs. When not part of the CFP, the bowl game includes the ACC's champion — or runner-up if said champion is in the playoffs — and the highest-ranked team among the SEC, Big Ten and Notre Dame. Texas A&M is the defending champion after a 41-27 win over North Carolina.

Gator Bowl

Held annually since 1946, the Gator Bowl is played at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville. This is the sixth-oldest bowl game in college football history and is sponsored by TaxSlayer.com. The Gator Bowl includes at least one team from either the ACC or Big 10 each season. Kentucky is the defending champion in this bowl game, defeating North Carolina State, 23-21, this past season.

Citrus Bowl

The Citrus Bowl is an NCAA-certified college football game that has been held annually since 1947. It is operated by Florida Citrus Sports, sponsored by Vrbo and held at Camping World Stadium in Orlando each year. The Citrus Bowl features an SEC-Big 10 matchup and is typically held on New Year's Day. Northwestern won the most recent Citrus Bowl, 35-19, over Auburn.

Outback Bowl

Held annually since 1986, the Outback Bowl features a team from the SEC and Big 10 conferences. This bowl game is sponsored by Outback Steakhouse and is played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay. Ole Miss is the defending Outback Bowl champions after a 26-20 win over Indiana.

Cheez-It Bowl

Like the Citrus Bowl, this is an NCAA-certified college football game operated by Florida Citrus Sports and held at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. The Cheez-It Bowl has been held annually since 1990 and features a team in the ACC and Big 12 conferences. Oklahoma State won the most recent event, a 37-34 win over Miami (FL).

Gasparilla Bowl 

Held annually since 2008, the Gasparilla Bowl doesn't have a specific tie-in, rather it can include two random teams across eight conferences, Army or BYU. The Gasparilla Bowl is sponsored by Union Home Mortgage and is held at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay. The 2020 Gasparilla Bowl was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving UCF as defending champions after a 48-25 win over Marshall.

Boca Raton Bowl 

The Boca Raton Bowl is an NCAA-certified college football game that has been held annually since 2014. It is played at FAU Stadium and is sponsored by RoofClaim.com. There are no affiliated conferences in this bowl game, but the American, Conference USA and the MAC have all previously competed. BYU is the defending Boca Raton Bowl champion after a 49-23 drubbing of UCF.

Cure Bowl

Established in 2015, the Cure Bowl is held annually at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. The event is sponsored by FBC Mortgage and features a team from the Sun Belt Conference. The Liberty Flames are back-to-back Cure Bowl champions after defeating Coastal Carolina, 37-34, in overtime.

Golf Events in Florida

Arnold Palmer Invitational

Held annually since 1966, the Arnold Palmer Invitational is currently played at Bay Hill Club and Lodge. The course is privately owned by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer himself and stretches across 7,454 yards. It has a Par of 72 and includes a prize fund of $9.3 million. Bryson Dechambeau is the defending champion after edging out Lee Westwood by a stroke in 2021.

The Players Championship

Established in 1974, The Players Championship is an annual golf tournament held at the stadium course at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach. Though not a major, it carries the highest prize fund in golf at $15 million. The course stretches across 7,189 yards with a Par of 72. It includes one of the most iconic holes in golf, the par-3 on 17. Justin Thomas is the defending champ, shooting 14-under par to beat Lee Westwood by one stroke.

Honda Classic 

The Honda Classic is an annual event held at PGA National Resort and Spa's Champion course in Palm Beach Gardens. It was established in 1972 and has been sponsored by the American Honda Motor Company since 1982. The course is 7,140 yards with a Par of 70. The event, won this past year by Matt Jones, includes a prize fund of $7 million.

Valspar Championship

The Valspar Championship, held annually since 2000, is played at Copperhead Course in Palm Harbor. The event is sponsored by Valspar Corporation and includes a prize fund of $6.7 million. The course stretches across 7,340 yards with a Par of 71. The 2020 event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving Paul Casey as the defending champion. He has won the last two Valspar Championships, both by a stroke.

QBE Shootout

The QBE Shootout is a post-season PGA Tour event, played at Tiburón Golf Club in Naples, Florida. The tournament is hosted by PGA Tour Professional Greg Norman, and is one of the few tournaments that utilizes a team-based format. The tournament's length is 54 holes and consists of various scoring formats such as scramble, greensome, and best ball. The duo of Harris English and Matt Kuchar are the reigning champions, both raking in $447,500 for their efforts in 2020.

NASCAR Events in FL

Daytona 500

Part of the NASCAR Cup Series, the Daytona 500 is widely regarded as the biggest race of the year. Held annually at the Daytona International Speedway, which stretches 500 miles and 200 laps, this is the season-opening race of the Cup series. Michael McDowell is the defending champion after winning the 2021 Daytona 500.

Dixie Vodka 400

Held annually since 1999 and part of the NASCAR Cup Series, the Dixie Vodka 400 is played at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. The race is sponsored by Dixie Vodka and is now held in March. William Byron won the 2021 Dixie Vodka 400 in a race that stretches 400.5 miles and 267 laps.

Coke Zero Sugar 400

This NASCAR stock car race is hosted at the Daytona International Speedway. Sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company, this race totals 400 miles in length and 160 laps. The 2021 race is set for Aug. 28 as William Byron will look to defend his crown.

Tennis Events in FL

Delray Beach Open

Part of the ATP World Tour 250 series, the Delray Beach Open is a men's tournament held annually on hard courts. This tennis event was established in 1993 and relocated to the Delray Beach Tennis Center in 1999. Hubert Hurkacz won the 2021 Delray Beach Open in straight sets over Sebastian Korda.

Miami Open

Held annually since 1985 and part of the ATP Tour Masters 1000 Circuit, the Miami Open is played at Hard Rock Stadium. The event is on a hard court and is sponsored by Itaú, an international bank. Hubert Hurkacz won the 2021 Miami Open in straight sets over Jannik Sinner.

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