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Florida Sports Betting

FL Sportsbook & Legalization Updates 2024

Florida

Updated March 19, 2024

Online Florida sports betting officially re-launched in the state on Nov. 7 with the Hard Rock Bet sportsbook app despite recent legal developments in the state. As of Dec. 5, the Hard Rock Bet app is available to all Florida bettors. 

Latest Florida Sports Betting News

  • March 1: PrizePicks, Betr Picks and Underdog Fantasy cease operations in Florida.
  • February 11: Attorneys for West Flagler pleaded with the U.S. Supreme Court to not “allow the unlawful approach taken by Florida to become a model” for the future of legalizing tribal sports betting across the nation.
  • December 26: West Flagler and Associates filed another response to the Florida Supreme Court arguing the Seminoles do not have the right to control gambling in the state, and that it is up to the Florida voters. As of right now, Florida still has retail and mobile sports betting. 
  • December 7: Florida retail sports betting officially launches. The Seminole Tribe of Florida began retail sports betting at their hotels and casinos, as some have partnerships with Hard Rock too.
  • December 5: Florida politician Jason Shoaf filed a bill to potentially legalize pick'em style fantasy sports in Florida. 
  • December 5: The Hard Rock Bet sportsbook app is made available to everyone in the state. The app launched an "early access period" in November before becoming open to all Florida bettors.
  • December 1: The state attorney general asks the state Supreme Court to dismiss the sports wagering case. The plaintiff in the case, West Flagler and Associates, argued that Gov. Ron DeSantis and the state legislature exceeded their powers in 2021 when they adopted a compact with the Florida Seminoles, which extends the tribe’s monopoly on legal gambling to include sports betting as well as casinos. The state responded, saying that digital sports betting “is not a type of game typically found in casinos” and falls outside the Florida constitution’s definition of casino gambling, according to SportsHandle's Jill Dorson.
  • November 17: The Florida Supreme Court officially denies WFA's attempt to take Hard Rock Bet down again. WFA will be pursuing their case against the Seminoles with the Supreme Court.
  • November 7: In a surprising move, Hard Rock Bet relaunched its online sportsbook for existing loyalty program members and bettors who had an account with Hard Rock when betting was live two years ago.
  • November 1: The Seminole tribe officially announced that sports betting in Florida will be back on Dec. 7 for retail locations only.
  • October 25: Florida sports betting is deemed legal once again after the U.S. Supreme Court denied West Flagler's request to stay as a lower-court ruling. WFA is expected to appeal this decision by November 20.
  • October 20: The Supreme Court granted Gov. DeSantis' deadline to respond until Dec. 1.
  • October 19: The FL attorney general has requested a 30-day extension on behalf of Gov. DeSantis' previous request to respond to the Supreme Court case he and members of the FL legislature are involved in. The original deadline was set for Nov. 1.
  • October 18: The DOI handed in their official response to the Supreme Court before the deadline. Both the DOI and WFA will now await the Supreme Court's response.
  • October 12: Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts issues order that requires a response by the U.S. Dept. of the Interior, the defendant in the case, by Oct. 18. This decision delays Hard Rock Bet's launching in FL once again.
  • September 28: The District of Columbia Circuit (DC Circuit) denied West Flagler's request to stay, meaning that the Seminole Tribe could legally launch Hard Rock Bet. There are still two pending legal requests from the plaintiffs.
  • September 26: West Flagler files state constitutional challenge in Florida's Supreme Court.
  • September 25: The Florida Gaming Control Commission sends cease and desist letters to PrizePicks, Underdog Fantasy, and Betr. The commission believes that all three DFS platforms have been operating illegal pick'em contests in Florida. More news to come.
  • September 15: West Flagler files their "motion to stay mandate," holding firm on their decision to pursue legal action against the Seminole Tribe. 
  • September 11: The U.S. Court of Appeals denied a request for an en banc rehearing by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. This decision did not stop West Flagler from continuing to file legal action.

Read on for the latest legalization information, Florida's current gaming options, educational betting resources, and insight into local teams.

FL Sports Betting Overview, Timeline and Background

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 Bet launched online betting through its mobile app that very day.

Fans of sports betting in Florida were briefly able to use the Hard Rock Bet app and place sports bets in November 2021. However, online sports betting in Florida came to an abrupt halt just three weeks after launching. After a lawsuit was filed by two small casinos in the state challenging the compact forged between the state and the Seminole Tribe, which planned to use its Hard Rock Bet app in the state, a judge ruled the agreement was illegal on Nov. 22, 2021. Since then, the app has been cut off until all legal issues are resolved.

In a decision rendered Nov. 22, 2021, 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 Bet to offer mobile sports betting was not legal. Offering broad mobile betting to people when they are not on tribal land violates the Indian Gaming Regulation Act provisions. 

But all was not lost, as on June 30, 2023, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the Seminole Tribe in a case pitting two parimutuels up against the U.S. Department of the Interior. The two parimutuels felt that the Seminoles' pact with the state of Florida, allowing Hard Rock Bet to go live digitally in Florida, violated the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). Appeals and further legal challenges are still pending, so nothing is set in stone yet, but there is a possibility that Hard Rock Bet could be available to mobile bettors in the state sometime within the next several months.

In November 2023, the Seminoles announced that retail sports betting would be available to their physical casino locations on Dec. 7, 2023. Soon after that announcement, mobile sports betting opened once again in the state with a surprise relaunch of the Hard Rock Bet sportsbook app. Later in the month, the Florida Supreme Court denied West Flagler and Associates' motion to take down the Hard Rock Bet app again.

The November Hard Rock Bet launch served as an "early access period" and only existing users or bettors who were a part of Hard Rock Bet's loyalty program could participate. In December, the Hard Rock Bet app was opened up to all Florida bettors—and retail betting came as well—officially ending a two-year pause of legal mobile sports betting.


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 that have happened along the way:

December 2023

 The Hard Rock Bet sportsbook app is made available to all Florida bettors. [Dec. 5]

November 2023

The Florida Supreme Court denies WFA's motion to take Hard Rock Bet app down once again. [Nov. 17]

Hard Rock Bet relaunches online sportsbook for existing users after a two-year pause. This surprising online launch comes after Hard Rock Digital recently announced that they will launch in-person sports betting on Dec. 7. [Nov. 7]

October 2023

U.S. Supreme Court denies WFA's request to stay, officially legalizing sports betting again in FL. While this is great news, WFA is still expected to appeal this ruling sometime in November, which still makes Hard Rock Digital officials hesitant to launching their sportsbook again. [Oct. 25]

FL attorney general requests a 30-day extension for Gov. DeSantis to respond to the Supreme Court case against him and members of the FL legislature. One day later, the Supreme Court extended the deadline until Dec. 1. Originally, DeSantis was given a Nov. 1 deadline to respond. [Oct. 19, 20]

The DOI handed in their Supreme Court response ahead of the 10/18 deadline. The DOI and WFA will now await the Supreme Court's response. [Oct. 18]

Supreme Court Justice John Roberts orders Case 21-5265 to stay. The U.S. Dept. of Interior must respond by Oct. 18 before any further actions can be taken, meaning the Hard Rock's launch has been delayed again. [Oct. 12]

September 2023

DC Circuit denies West Flagler's request to stay. This means that Florida and Hard Rock Bet are inching closer to relaunching online sports betting in the Sunshine State. A clearer path will be presented if the U.S. Supreme Court decides not to take up this case. [Sept. 28]

West Flagler files state constitutional challenge against Florida. The US Supreme Court could take this matter into their own hands if West Flagler's case holds up against the Florida state government. [Sept. 26]

PrizePicks, Betr, and Underdog Fantasy are sent cease and desist letters by the FGCC. The Florida Gaming Control Commission have claimed that pick'em games are operating illegally by these three DFS providers and are ordering to stop offering contests for Florida residents. [Sept. 25]

West Flagler files their "motion to stay mandate," leading to further delays of Hard Rock Bet's anticipated relaunch. The DOI will have 10 days to respond to West Flagler's motion and the latter will have an additional seven days to respond. [Sept. 15]

Hard Rock Bet would possibly be able to relaunch as soon as Sept. 19, 2023. The U.S. Court of Appeals has officially denied the request for an en banc hearing by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, which opens up the possibility of Hard Rock Bet's return to the FL betting market. [Sept. 11]

June 2023

The D.C. Circuit rules in favor of the Seminole Tribe. This is great news after almost 1.5 years of waiting for legal movement on Florida sports betting. Despite this news, Hard Rock can't legally re-launch until late August due to the existing 52-day legal waiting period set by lawmakers. [July 6]

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.

Florida Grading Card

Mobile Apps

Florida will likely end up with Hard Rock Bet as the only mobile option because the Seminole Tribe, which owns the Hard Rock brand, has a monopoly over online betting in the state. Hard Rock Bet may develop into a robust tech platform, especially with its latest app update in other legal states. 

Deposit Options

Floridians will be able to sign up, deposit, and cash out online, which is a massive advantage over other states that require in-person registrations or deposits.

Competitive Pricing

Because Hard Rock Bet has a likely monopoly, it's unlikely the pricing will be favorable. That doesn't mean it will be egregious or any different from market-leaders DraftKings and FanDuel, but the lack of competition will mean prices won't be as competitive as in states with a robust marketplace.

Sport Offerings

Monopolies on online betting have failed so far — look at Washington D.C. and Montana. We'll see if Hard Rock Bet is different, but it's discouraging for bettors not to have at least a few options to find the best prices on whatever they want to bet.

How to Place a Sports Bet in FL

Sports fans with a mobile phone in Florida were able to place their first legal bets in November and early December 2021 before being paused for two years. Now, all Florida bettors with the Hard Rock Bet app in 2021 are allowed to place bets. Here's how you can register a new Hard Rock Bet account when it opens for new users:

Step 1: Choose a Legal Sportsbook (when Hard Rock Bet 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 is 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 Bet app 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. 

If you're interested in sports betting in another legal state, you can also select a well-known betting platform like BetMGM and take advantage of the BetMGM Sportsbook Promo Code.

Florida Sports Betting Tips

Basketball icon Sports Betting for Beginners

If you're new to Florida sports betting, you likely have questions: Where should you be betting on the Miami win totals? How do you find the best odds for a Panthers game?

Our betting education hub can help you make savvier decisions come game time.

Baseball icon Sports Betting Glossary

Sports betting comes with its language and terminology. It can all be a bit overwhelming and intimidating for newer betting enthusiasts, so be sure to consult our sports betting glossary for detailed definitions of all the main terms.

Football icon Sports Betting Mistakes for Floridians to Avoid

Sports betting isn't easy whether you're betting on Miami Heat game totals or Jacksonville Jaguars futures.

If you stay true to our betting mistakes to avoid, your sports betting experience will be much more enjoyable.

Online Sportsbooks in Florida

Hard Rock Bet remains the only available sportsbook in Florida and likely will be for the foreseeable future.

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9.1/10. See our Hard Rock Bet Promo Code and review for more in-depth information about Hard Rock and step-by-step instructions on how to sign up.

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Florida Teams

Florida Teams to Bet on

NFL Logo  NFL Betting in Florida

Miami Dolphins logo 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 over two dozen times and rank second in the AFC East with 13 division titles. The franchise made the playoffs in 2022 and seem to be a team on the rise under the always-entertaining Coach Mike McDaniel. The Dolphins play their home games at Hard Rock Stadium, and McDaniel is entering his third year at the helm.

Dolphins Odds

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Logo 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 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.

In 2020, 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 Todd Bowles.

Buccaneers Odds

Jacksonville Jaguars logo Jacksonville Jaguars

The third youngest franchise in the NFL, the Jacksonville Jaguars joined the NFL as an expansion team in 1995. The Jags made 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 two playoff appearances in the last decade: winning the AFC South title in 2017 and 2022.

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 Doug Petersen.

Jaguars Odds

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

NBA Logo NBA Betting in Florida

Miami Heat LogoMiami 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. In 2006, they won a championship under Riley, and his promotion to president of the franchise would lead to even more success. The Heat have made the NBA playoffs more often than not to the tune of seven 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. 

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. They also made a surprise run to the NBA Finals in 2023, coming up just short against the heavily favored Denver Nuggets. The Heat compete in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference and are coached by Erik Spoelstra. They play home games at Kaseya Center.

Heat Odds

Orlando Magic logo 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 duos. 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 Jamahl Mosley and plays its home games at the Amway Center.

Magic Odds

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

MLB logo MLB Betting in Florida

Tampa Bay Rays logo 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 logo 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 in the first round, its first-ever postseason appearance without a World Series. They are led by manager Skip Schumaker 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:

NHL logo NHL Betting in Florida

Florida Panthers logo 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. That was as far as they got until their miracle run to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2023, ending with a 4-1 series loss to the Vegas Golden Knights.

The Panthers turned a corner in 2021 and now regularly compete 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 Paul Maurice.

Panthers Odds

Tampa Bay Lightning logo 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 do well every year in the regular season, but had a surprising first-round exit in 2023 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Tampa Bay 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:

MLS Logo MLS Betting in Florida

Orlando City SC logo 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 City Miami logo Inter Miami CF

Inter Miami joined the MLS as an expansion team, holding its inaugural season in 2020. They have never done very well, but none of that matters now that Soccer God Leo Messi is on the team. Inter Miami competes in the Eastern Conference and plays home games at DRV PNK Stadium. The franchise is coached by Gerardo Martino 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 logo 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 logo 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 logo 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 Mario Cristobal and play their home games at Hard Rock Stadium.

Hurricanes Odds

UCF Knights logo 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 regularly make it to bowl games and have done very well in the AAC. 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 logo 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 Alex Golesh and play home games at Raymond James Stadium, which they share with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Bulls Odds

FIU Panthers logo 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 Mike MacIntyre and play home games at Riccardo Silva Stadium on campus in Miami.

Panthers Odds

FAU Owls logo 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 Tom Herman and plays their home games at FAU Stadium.

Owls Odds

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College Basketball Betting in Florida

Florida Gators logo 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. Current head coach Todd Golden just finished his first season at the helm. The Gators play their home games at the Exactech Arena inside the Stephen C. O'Connell Center.

Gators Odds

Florida State Seminoles logo 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 several 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 few seasons, slowly turning around the program that so often struggled. The Seminoles play their home games at Donald L. Tucker Center.

Seminoles Odds

Miami Hurricanes logo 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 the tournament many times, but never made it as far as they did in their surprising Final Four run in 2023, where they lost to eventual champion UConn. 

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 logo 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 logo 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 Amir Abdur-Rahim.

Bulls Odds

Florida Gulf Goast Eagles logo 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 Pat Chambers and plays its home games at Alico Arena.

Eagles Odds

FAU Owls logo Florida Atlantic (FAU) Owls Men's Basketball

The Owls were an unknown team before their miracle run to the Final Four in 2023, the year that put South Florida basketball on the map. Since Dusty May took over as head coach in 2018, FAU has had a tremendous amount of success. The Owls play home games at FAU Arena on campus in Boca Raton.

Owls Odds

FIU Panthers logo 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 have made the Tournament a few times but overall have had limited success as a program. FIU is coached by Jeremy Ballard and plays its home games at Ocean Bank Convocation Center.

Panthers Odds

North Florida Ospreys logo 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 logoJacksonville 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 Frank Barker and play home games at Swisher Gymnasium on campus.

Dolphins Odds

Bethune-Cookman Wildcats logo 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. They are coached by former NBA star Reggie Theus and play their home games at Moore Gymnasium.

Wildcats Odds

Florida A&M Rattlers logo 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 logo 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

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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 icon for FL Events 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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

Golf in florida icon 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 the event includes a prize fund of over $10 million.

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. 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. 

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. 

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 over $7 million. The course stretches across 7,340 yards with a Par of 71. 

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, the event stretches 500 miles and 200 laps as the season-opening race of the Cup series. 

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.

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. 

Tennis Events FL logo 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.

More Reading on Florida

Additional Sports News

To supplement Action, you can find additional sports news coverage at the Miami Herald, Tampa Bay Times and the Orlando Sentinel.

Florida's Casino & Gaming Locations

Seminole Classic Casino Hollywood

The Seminole Classic Casino Hollywood has over 1,000 slots with minimum wagers ranging from 1 penny to 25 dollars. With a wide variety of table games available and a poker room, there is a game for everyone! If you are looking for dining, there are plenty of casual options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are also two bars on site, for when you get thirsty while gaming.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa

With 245,000 square feet of gaming space, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has a wide range of gaming options for their customers. With fine, casual, and quick dining options, there is something to eat for everyone. This property has 8 bars, and with a wide array of entertainment making it a well-rounded property.

Seminole Brighton Casino

The Seminole Brighton Casino offers 400+ slots as well as various table games and high stakes bingo. With 24/7 operating hours, there is no excuse to miss out on the action. There is casual dining available, as well as live entertainment.

Seminole Casino Coconut Creek

The Seminole Casino in Coconut Creek has a wide variety of casino games. These games include progressive and non-progressive slots, as well as poker and over 70 live table games. With 4 dining options, you will not leave hungry!

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood

The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL has plenty of gaming options. With over 200 table games and 45 poker tables, you can ensure that there will always be a seat for you. There is no shortage of slot machines at this property. This casino also provides plenty of live entertainment and dining options.

Seminole Casino Immokalee

Located near Fort Meyers and Naples, the Seminole Casino Immokalee has plenty of slots and table games for every visitor. Plenty of dining options are available, including a coffee and pastry bar.

Florida 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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Florida Sports Betting FAQ
Commonly asked questions about sports betting in The Sunshine State.
Where can I bet in Florida?

As of now, Hard Rock Bet users can place online sports bets on the app in Florida. However, there are also other avenues gamblers can use in or around Florida to wager, including:

  • Seminole Tribe Casinos. Within the Seminole Tribe casinos, it is legal to gamble on sports starting on Dec. 7. Available casinos are listed on this page, but no sportsbooks are currently open at the casinos.
  • Cruise ships. As a state broadly wrapped in the coastline, this is a creative way Floridians are getting around gambling regulations: cruise ships. By heading into international waters, gamblers can wager on sports and have it technically be OK, as state laws are circumvented. 
  • Greyhounds and horse racing. If you're a fan of racing, greyhound and horse racing betting is permitted. There are a few licensed facilities where this is legal in the state of Florida.
How old do you have to be to gamble in Florida?

The legal age to gamble in Florida is 21 years old.

What are the current legal gaming options in Florida?

Hard Rock Bet users can now place online bets on the app as of Nov. 7, 2023!

Is sports betting legal in Florida?

Sports betting is technically legal in Florida at this time after lengthy legal challenges over the last couple of years. Online sports betting in Florida was relaunched for users on Nov. 7, 2023. Retail sports betting followed on December 7th.