7 Best Illinois Online Sports Betting Sites – Full Guide to IL Online Sports Betting

Illinois offers legal real money online sports betting that doesn’t require in-person registration at a local partner anymore. Customers can sign up online with any of the seven available sites and bet on a wide range of sports, with the exception of in-state college teams.

Some of Illinois’s most popular online sportsbooks include BetRivers, FanDuel, DraftKings, and PointsBet. Read our complete guide for reviews on the best Illinois online sports betting sites, state sports betting law, and learn how to register and claim your welcome bonus.

Best Illinois Sportsbooks for Each Bettor Type

Illinois Online Sports Betting Legislation Timeline

Illinois wasted no time passing a sports betting bill after the US Supreme Court struck down a federal ban on sports betting in May 2019 opening up legalized sportsbook for the US.

Governor J.B. Pritzker signed SB 690 into law in June 2019, making both retail and online sports betting legal in Illinois. However, it took several more months for the Illinois Gaming Board to finalize its regulations and begin accepting operator license applications.

Finally, in March 2020, bettors placed the first legal sports wagers in Illinois at retail sportsbooks and online. The first retail sportsbook in Illinois was at the Rivers Casino Des Plaines, while the first online sportsbook was BetRivers.

Latest Updates:

• April 2023: SB 1508 addressing the gambling problem got unanimous approval of 54-0 and was passed in the Senate. The bill states that the sportsbooks must provide an hourly pop-up  will provide bettors with how much they have wagered.
• February 2023: The Illinois Gaming Board sports reports show a handle of over $427 million from online wagering.
• March 5, 2022: The requirement to register in-person at a retail sportsbook in order to bet online is eliminated.
• October 2021: The Illinois Gaming Board announces that they have received 27 applications for online-only betting licenses. The board will issue up to three more online-only licenses in December.
• March 2021: Illinois hits a record, generating over $600 million in wagers.

Best 7 Illinois Online Sports Betting Sites Reviewed

When we review Illinois online sports betting sites, our experts leave no stone unturned to make sure we discover the best sportsbooks in the Prairie State. Read our overview of the top seven legal sports betting sites in IL below.

1. DraftKings – Official Sports Betting Partner of Chicago Cubs

• Website: draftkings.com/il-sports-betting
• Payout Time: 1-2 days
• Established: 2012
• Land-Based Partner: Casino Queen
• Headquarters: Boston, MA

Our Verdict: 9.6/10

DraftKings, a top-tier sports betting and daily fantasy operator founded in Boston in 2012 launched its Illinois sportsbook in August 2020 through a partnership with Casino Queen in East St. Louis. DraftKings offers Illinois bettors a premium betting experience with its vast markets, reliable mobile app, and generous welcome bonus.

A comprehensive menu of sports is available for betting at DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois. This includes all the major and international leagues and niche sports like golf and darts. The sportsbook provides several payment options, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, online banking, and cash deposits at retail locations. Withdrawals are processed in 1-2 business days.

Regarding customer support, DraftKings features a ticket system for user queries and a 24/7 live chat feature. Email and telephone support are also available. The team was always quick to respond to our questions during the DraftKings review.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.1/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.6/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.6/10
• Registration Process: 9.6/10
• Account Verification: 9.7/10
• Payment Methods: 9.1/10
• Sportsbook: 9.7/10
• Customer Support: 9.7/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.8/10

DraftKings bonuses & promos:

2. Barstool – Bet on the Grant Park 220 with NASCAR’s official Betting Partner

• Website: barstoolsportsbook.com
• Payout Time: 2-3 days
• Established: 2003
• Land-Based Partner: Hollywood Casino Aurora
• Headquarters: New York, NY

Our Verdict: 9.5/10

Penn National Gaming launched its online sports betting platform, Barstool Sportsbook, in Illinois in March 2021. The Barstool Illinois mobile app is a tidy platform integrated with handy features like the quick pick parlay tool and helpful pregame info menus. For bettors who prefer in-person wagering, Barstool operates retail sportsbooks at the Hollywood Casino properties in Aurora and Joliet.

Barstool Illinois Sportsbook lists 17 sports markets for Illinois bettors. Asides from the traditional wagering formats, it also covers prop bets, futures, round robins, teasers, and parlays. As an official sports betting partner of NASCAR, it has loads of promotions on the Cup Series, including Illinois’ own Chicago street race, the Grant Park 220.

Barstool Sportsbook accepts online banking, credit/debit cards, PayPal, ACH, Play+, and cash at the casino cage. Withdrawals are processed within three business days. In the unlikely event that you encounter any issues, customer support is available 24/7 via live chat and email. You can also request a callback via the FAQ tab for more answers and help with complex issues.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.3/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.4/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.2/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.7/10
• Payment Methods: 9.0/10
• Sportsbook: 9.4/10
• Customer Support: 9.8/10
• Responsible Gambling: 10.0/10

Barstool bonuses & promos:

3. BetMGM – Earn MGM Rewards for Every Online Sports Bet in IL

• Website: sports.il.betmgm.com/en/sports
• Payout Time: 3-5 days
• Established: 1986
• Land-Based Partner: Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino
• Headquarters: Las Vegas, NV

Our Verdict: 9.4/10

BetMGM IL launched in March 2022 when the Las Vegas-based hospitality giant brought its wealth of gambling experience to the Prairie State, partnering with Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino in East Peoria. BetMGM offers fully functional mobile platforms for on-the-go betting, an impressive live-streaming platform, and a comprehensive loyalty program.

BetMGM Sportsbook offers wagers on just about every sport available, with focused coverage on odds for major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL.

Illinois bettors can fund their BetMGM sportsbook account using credit/debit cards, eChecks, PayPal, PayNearMe, and online banking. Withdrawals are subject to a review period of 3 to 5 days. BetMGM’s efficient customer service is accessible 24/7 via email, phone, and live chat. The site also features an FAQs page that addresses popular user queries.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.4/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.6/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.5/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.7/10
• Payment Methods: 9.0/10
• Sportsbook: 9.4/10
• Customer Support: 9.8/10
• Responsible Gambling: 10.0/10

BetMGM bonuses & promos:

4. FanDuel – Best Sports Betting Site with a Racebook in Illinois

• Website: il.sportsbook.fanduel.com
• Payout Time: 24-48 hours
• Established: 2009
• Land-Based Partner: FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing
• Headquarters: New York, NY

Our Verdict: 9.4/10

Major DFS platform FanDuel launched its Illinois online betting product in August 2020. The company operates retail sportsbooks at East Peoria’s Par-A-Dice casino and at the FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing, Collinsville (formerly Fairmont Park Racetrack). Boasting a well-designed mobile app and high-quality live streaming feature, FanDuel remains a leading sportsbook option for bettors in Illinois.

FanDuel IL offers various betting choices, from baseball to football, hockey, and soccer. As an official partner of the Chicago Bulls, basketball fans in IL can take advantage of FanDuel’s boosted odds on NBA regular season and playoff games.

Players at FanDuel Sportsbook can deposit and withdraw funds using debit cards, online banking, PayPal, Venmo, and Play+ cards. Any issues and the FanDuel customer support department can be contacted through email requests or live chat, both available around the clock.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 8.8/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.6/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.6/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.8/10
• Payment Methods: 9.0/10
• Sportsbook: 9.7/10
• Customer Support: 9.3/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.6/10

FanDuel bonuses & promos:

5. BetRivers – Official Sports Betting Partner of Chicago Bears

• Website: il.betrivers.com
• Payout Time: 24 hours
• Established: 2012
• Land-Based Partner: Rivers Casino Des Plaines
• Headquarters: Chicago, IL

Our Verdict: 9.2/10

BetRivers, the online betting wing of Rivers Casino, is Illinois’ oldest online sportsbook and is owned by local company Rush Street Gaming. The sportsbook is an official partner of the Chicago Bears, providing collaborative promotions and exclusive prizes on events involving the local NFL team. BetRivers’ iRush Rewards program also offers attractive benefits catered to Illinois online sports bettors.

BetRivers Sportsbook offers premium betting markets on all the elite sports leagues like football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and soccer.

Banking options available at BetRivers include online banking, PayPal, credit/debit cards, and cash at the River Casino Des Plaines. BetRivers provides a live chat feature available for 18 hours daily should you encounter any issues. You can also access the support team through email and telephone.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.0/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.5/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.4/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.5/10
• Payment Methods: 9.1/10
• Sportsbook: 9.3/10
• Customer Support: 9.5/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.7/10

BetRivers bonuses & promos:

6. Caesars – Special Promotions on Partner Chicago White Sox Games

• Website: williamhill.com/us/il/bet/
• Payout Time: Up to 1 day
• Established: 1937
• Land-Based Partner: Grand Victoria Casino
• Headquarters: Reno, NV

Our Verdict: 9.2/10

Casino-entertainment behemoth Caesars Entertainment, Inc. entered the Illinois mobile betting scene in September 2020 through a partnership with Grand Victoria Casino Elgin, which operates a full-service retail sportsbook. Caesars has thrived in the Prairie State thanks to a wide array of betting markets, a tidy welcome bonus, and the illustrious Caesars Rewards loyalty program.

Betting lines on popular US markets like the NFL, MLB, and NHL form the core of Caesars’ sports coverage, but bettors will also find odds on MMA, soccer, and tennis events.

Caesars IL accepts payments with debit/credit cards, VIP Preferred eCheck, PayPal, Play+, PayNearMe, and the cash cage at Grand Victoria Casino. The Caesars Sportsbook support team is available daily through live chat, email, and phone should you have any issues. Bettors can also access an exceptionally detailed FAQs section on the support page.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.6/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.3/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.2/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.6/10
• Payment Methods: 9.2/10
• Sportsbook: 9.2/10
• Customer Support: 9.5/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.6/10

Caesars bonuses & promos:

7. PointsBet – Promotions Throughout the Blackhawks’ Season

• Website: il.pointsbet.com
• Payout Time: 2-3 days
• Established: 2015
• Land-Based Partner: Hawthorne Race Course
• Headquarters: Denver, CO

Our Verdict: 9.1/10

In September 2020, Illinois became the fourth state to welcome PointsBet Sportsbook, the mobile betting product of Australia-based operator PointsBet Holdings. The sportsbook provides bettors with leading odds prices, a fantastic user experience, and an exciting Points Betting format. PointsBet also runs retail sportsbooks at Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney/Cicero, Crestwood, and Prospects Heights.

PointsBet’s unrivaled sports coverage is one of the book’s best features, as bettors can wager on over 18 sports, including niche options like darts, motorsports, and cricket.

Banking options at PointsBet IL include debit or credit cards, ACH eChecks, PayNearMe, and the cashier at PointsBet’s retail venues in Illinois. The sportsbook processes most withdrawals in less than 72 hours. Users can submit an email request or start a live chat with a customer service representative should they encounter any issues.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.1/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.3/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.1/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.5/10
• Payment Methods: 9.0/10
• Sportsbook: 9.4/10
• Customer Support: 9.5/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.5/10

PointsBet bonuses & promos:

Illinois Online Sports Betting Regulation

Illinois is one of the growing numbers of states in the US that have legalized betting on sports. Sports betting is regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), which has the authority to oversee and enforce wagering regulations.

To place a wager at the best Illinois gambling sites, you must be at least 21 or older. Additionally, you must be physically located within the state’s borders to place a bet per Illinois law. Location is confirmed through geolocation software, which can track the physical location of devices used for gambling.

The state has also implemented certain restrictions related to job eligibility. Specifically, individuals who work for professional sports teams or governing bodies, as well as sports officials and athletes, are prohibited from placing wagers on events in which they are involved. Additionally, those with criminal records may not be allowed to participate in sports betting, depending on the nature of the offense.

Sports Betting Licensing in Illinois

Illinois issues sports betting licenses for both retail and online operations through the Illinois Gaming Board. To obtain a license, applicants must undergo a background check, provide financial disclosures, and prove their financial stability.

Licenses are allocated to casinos, racetracks, online-only operators, and professional sports teams, with fees varying based on the type of license and operator size. There is no specified maximum number of licenses, with the allocation depending on the demand for sports betting in the state.

College Sports Betting in Illinois

Under Illinois law, wagering on collegiate athletics is permitted with certain limitations. Bets can be placed on college teams outside the state, including out-of-state teams competing against Illinois-based colleges and universities.

However, betting on any Illinois college team or sporting event is prohibited. This implies that individuals cannot place bets on any game or event that involves a team from an Illinois-based college or university. Prop bets on individual college athletes are also not allowed in Illinois.

Illinois Online Sports Betting Bonuses

In Illinois, sports betting has been legalized since 2019, allowing residents to enjoy online sports betting. As a result, most IL online sportsbooks offer various bonuses to attract new customers in the state, as well as different promotions to reward the loyalty of returning bettors.

Our betting experts put together a list of typical bonuses you can find in Illinois sportsbooks. To claim the most up-to-date offers, click on any link on this page and visit the sportsbook’s “Promotions” section.

Welcome Bonuses

An Illinois sportsbook welcome bonus is only available to new players. It can consist of a deposit match bonus, bonus bets, or second chance bets upon signing up. You can only claim a welcome offer once, when you sign up for a new sportsbook account.

Deposit Match Bonuses

A deposit match bonus is a promotional offer where IL sportsbook operators will match the user’s initial deposit up to a certain amount. In many cases, this means the betting site will effectively double the player’s betting funds.

For example, if a bettor deposits $100 and claims a 100% bonus match, up to $100, they will be comped an additional $100 in bonus money to their account, leaving $200 to bet with. A rollover requirement will apply for the received bonus, requiring customers to bet the amount several times before withdrawing the winnings.

No Deposit Bonus

A no-deposit bonus gives Illinois bettors a small amount of bonus funds or set bets without requiring them to deposit any of their own money. This promotion allows users to try out the platform risk-free and potentially win money without making any initial investment. Players can keep profits from this bonus, but will need to meet wagering requirements and deposit rules before cashing out.

Bet Back Deals

Illinois sports betting sites offer second chance bets or bet back deals, an offer that refunds a player’s first bet up to a certain amount if it loses. For example, if a user places a $50 first bet and loses, the sportsbook refunds them the $50 in the form of bonus funds for their next bet. This offer allows users to place riskier bets without worrying about losing their initial investment.

Bonus Bets

Bonus bets are a type of promotion offered by sportsbooks where users can place a bet without using their own funds. If the bet wins, the user keeps the winnings, but if it loses, there is no loss to the user. However, in case of a loss, the sportsbook won’t refund the player’s stake of a bonus bet.

Sportsbook Bonus Codes

IL sportsbooks use bonus codes to reward customers with exclusive benefits. These bonus codes are a sequence of letters and numbers that users can enter during registration or deposit to unlock exclusive offers.

An example of a sportsbook bonus code could be “BET$50FREE,” which, if entered correctly during registration or deposit, would give the user a bet worth $50 for free, without risking their own funds. However, this code is an example that won’t work on an IL sports betting site.

Odds Boosts

Sportsbooks offer odds boosts that increase the payout for odds on a specific bet. The boost may apply to a specific event or market, and the odds increase is usually expressed as a percentage. This promotion can provide users with a higher payout for a winning bet than they would normally receive.

Parlay Insurance

Parlay insurance is a promotion offered by some sportsbooks that refund users’ bets if one of the legs of their parlay bet loses. This promotion typically applies to parlays with four or more legs and can protect users from losing all their money on a single bet due to one incorrect selection.

Understanding bonus terms and conditions is crucial for users to make the most of sportsbook bonuses. These terms and conditions can include wagering requirements, restrictions on bet types, expiration dates, and minimum odds. Failing to understand these terms can result in users losing their bonus funds or being unable to withdraw their winnings.

How to Register with Illinois Online Sports Betting Sites

Online sports betting is legal in Illinois, and sportsbook operators designed a registration process that is quick and easy. If you’re looking to bet in IL, follow this simple, step-by-step guide and place your first bets in minutes.

1. Click on any link on this guide, and you’ll be redirected to one of the best, most reputable online gambling sites that operate in Illinois.
2. Once on the website, click the “Register” or “Sign Up” button to start the registration process. You’ll need to provide personal details such as your name, address, date of birth, email address, and phone number.
3. After you’ve filled out the registration form, agree to the terms and conditions and confirm your account. the site will ask you to confirm your registration. This may be done through a confirmation email or SMS message.
4. Once your account is confirmed, you’ll need to make a deposit to start betting. Go to the “Cashier” or “Deposit” section of the website and select your preferred payment method. Enter the amount you want to deposit and follow the instructions to complete the transaction.
5. Most gambling sites in Illinois offer bonuses for new players. Check the site’s promotions page or contact customer support to find out if any bonuses are available. Follow the instructions to claim the bonus.
6. After your deposit has been processed and your bonus (if any) has been credited to your account, you can start placing bets on your favorite sports or other activities the site offers.
7. If you win a bet or decide to withdraw your funds, go to the “Cashier” or “Withdrawal” section of the website and select your preferred payment method. Enter the amount you want to withdraw and follow the instructions to complete the transaction.

Verifying the Account

Before cashing out for the first time, you will need to verify your account by sending the gambling site copies of documents, including a picture ID, proof of address, and payment method. It takes between a few hours to a few working days to verify your account, and you’ll only have to do it once. You can still gamble on the IL site while awaiting verification.

To ensure that you’re betting within Illinois state borders, you will need to enable geolocation services on your mobile device. If not prompted to do so during registration, go to the device’s settings and allow the gambling site to verify your location.

Illinois Betting Apps on Mobile

Illinois Online and Mobile Sports Betting

Looking to get in on the gambling action in Illinois? When it comes to online betting, you’ve got options. Whether you prefer to bet on a desktop or mobile device, you can do so from anywhere in the state.

Desktop Gambling

Desktop betting provides a comfortable betting experience, with a bigger screen and a full set of features to help you make informed gambling decisions. Plus, many desktop betting sites offer live streaming of games and races, which can be a game-changer for die-hard sports fans. So although it’s also offered on mobile, watching a live sporting event on a bigger screen is always more fun.

Mobile Gambling

Mobile betting, on the other hand, is all about convenience and flexibility. Bet from anywhere, anytime, with just a few taps on your mobile device. No need to rush home to place your bets – mobile betting makes it easy to stay on top of the action no matter where you are. In Illinois, you have two mobile betting options: HTML5 mobile sites and native apps.

HTML5 mobile sites are accessible through your mobile browser and provide a similar experience to the desktop version of the betting site. They’re easy to use and require no download or installation.

Native apps, on the other hand, offer a more seamless experience. They’re specifically designed for your device and operating system, so you’ll get faster load times and smoother graphics. However, they take up your device’s storage space and may require updates.

Ultimately, the choice between desktop and mobile betting, as well as between HTML5 mobile sites and native apps, comes down to personal preference. But with so many options available in Illinois, there’s no excuse not to get in on the action.

Payment Methods in Illinois

Illinois online betting sites provide an array of payment options for players, which is crucial to ensure a hassle-free and secure online gambling experience. Selecting the right payment method is essential, and here are some popular options available at Illinois sports betting sites:

• Credit and Debit Cards: This is one of the most common payment methods at online sportsbooks. Most sites accept major credit and debit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, ensuring instant deposits and additional security features like fraud protection.
• eWallets: eWallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are prevalent payment options at Illinois online betting sites. These digital wallets allow players to store funds securely and make quick and easy deposits and withdrawals, ideal for those prioritizing convenience and speed.
• Bank and Wire Transfers: For players preferring traditional banking methods, bank transfers are a reliable option. Though this method takes longer than other options, it offers a high level of security and is often available for both deposits and withdrawals.
• Prepaid Cards: Prepaid cards are popular among players without access to credit cards or those hesitant to use one for online transactions. These cards are available at local retailers and are suitable for making deposits at online betting sites.
• Casino Cage: If the operator has a retail sportsbook or partners with a land-based casino, you can use the casino cage or cashier to deposit and withdraw from your online betting account. This method allows players to make cash transactions in person at the casino, providing a convenient and secure option for those who prefer handling transactions physically.

It’s crucial to note that not all payment methods are available at every online betting site in Illinois. Therefore, before making a deposit or withdrawal, check the site’s banking options.

Responsible Gambling in Illinois

Illinois sports betting law requires operators to provide responsible gambling resources, and the Illinois Gaming Board ensures operators meet responsible gaming regulations in the state. The state has a self-exclusion program that allows players to exclude themselves from gambling activities for a specified period voluntarily.

All licensed sites must have a responsible gambling section that includes self-help tools such as time limits and budgeting tools and links to resources like the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling.

The state requires that each online sportsbook partner with a third-party responsible gambling organization, such as the National Council on Problem Gambling or the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Illinois. These organizations provide additional resources and support for players who may be struggling with problem gambling.

Illinois Responsible Gambling Resources

Here are some responsible gambling resources in Illinois:

• Illinois Council on Problem Gambling
• Illinois Department of Human Services
• Gamblers Anonymous
• National Council on Problem Gambling

Teams to Bet on in Illinois

Pro Sports

Chicago Bears

Chicago Bears are an NFL team that plays its home games at Soldier Field, on the Near South Side, Chicago. It is one of the oldest franchises and has been ever-present in pro football. Overall, it has won nine NFL Championships and one Super Bowl. The team plays in the National Football Conference (NFC) North and has a fierce rivalry with their divisional opponent, the Green Bay Packers.

Chicago Bulls

Chicago Bulls are an NBA team also located in Chicago, Illinois. The team won six NBA championships in the 1990s, with the legendary Michael Jordan leading the way. It is one of the most popular teams in the league and plays its home games at the United Center.

Chicago Cubs

Chicago Cubs are a Major League Baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois. The team is one of the league’s oldest and most beloved franchises, with fans worldwide. It has won three World Series championships, including its first in 107 years in 2016. The Cubs partner with DraftKings and are one of the most popular teams to bet on in Illinois.

Chicago Blackhawks

Chicago Blackhawks are a professional ice hockey team based in Chicago, Illinois. It is one of the “Original Six” teams of the NHL and have won six Stanley Cup championships, including three in the last decade. The Blackhawks has a loyal fan base and a fierce rivalry with the Detroit Red Wings.

Chicago White Sox

Chicago White Sox is a professional baseball team, inaugurated in 1900. The team has reached three World Series its founding, with an 87-year wait between the 1917 and 2005 wins, the second-longest championship drought in MLB history after its crosstown rivals, the Cubs.

College Sports

University of Illinois Fighting Illini

The University of Illinois Fighting Illini athletics program is part of the Big Ten Conference, with its most prominent team, its football program, having a long history dating back to 1890. The team has won five national and 15 conference championships. Its basketball team earned berths in 30 NCAA tournaments and reached the Final Four five times, and its ice hockey team has won two national championships.

Northwestern University Wildcats

Athletics teams representing Northwestern University, known as the Wildcats, compete in the Big Ten Conference and has a history dating back to 1896. One of its most prominent programs, its baseball team, has produced several major league players and has won one conference championship.

Loyola University Chicago Ramblers

Loyola University Chicago Ramblers is known for its men’s basketball program, which competes in the Missouri Valley Conference. The team has made two NCAA tournament appearances and reached the Final Four in 2018, earning national attention and acclaim for its Cinderella run.

University of Illinois-Chicago Flames

The University of Illinois-Chicago (UIC) Flames compete in NCAA Division I sports as part of the Horizon League. The men’s basketball team has made three NCAA tournament appearances, and the women’s basketball team has won two conference championships. The Flames also have competitive baseball, soccer, and volleyball teams.

Bradley University Braves

Bradley University’s athletics program, known as the Braves, is a Missouri Valley Conference member in NCAA Division I. The school is most famous for its basketball program, which earned nine berths to the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, reaching the national championship game twice. It is a top pick for March Madness betting.

DePaul University Blue Demons

DePaul University Blue Demons are a member of the Big East Conference in NCAA Division I. The school’s men’s basketball team has reached the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament twenty-two times, most recently in 2004. It plays its home games at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago’s Near South Side.

Eastern Illinois University Panthers

A member of NCAA Division I’s Ohio Valley Conference, Eastern Illinois Panthers is located in Charleston. Its football team is a member of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), making sixteen trips to the FCS playoffs. The school has also won nineteen conference titles, including back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013.

Illinois State University Redbirds

Still awaiting its first title at NCAA Division I sports, Illinois State Redbirds are a member of the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) for all sports except football, where they compete in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. The school’s only championship was the NCAA Division II title at Baseball in 1969.

Northern Illinois University Huskies

Northern Illinois University’s athletics teams, known as the Huskies, are a member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in NCAA Division I. Its football team is a member of the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and has a 4-10 record in bowl games. It won the California Bowl in 1983, the Silicon Valley Classic in 2004, the Humanitarian Bowl in 2010 and the GoDaddy.com Bowl in 2011.

Southern Illinois University Salukis

The Southern Illinois Salukis have won five NCAA Division I championships. Four of which were in gymnastics, one of which was in the NCAA Division 1-AA, where its football team defeated Western Carolina University 43-7 in the championship game.

Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Cougars

Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Cougars has only one championship to its name, in NCAA Division I soccer in 1979. Since joining the Ohio Valley Conference in NCAA Division I, its men’s basketball has yet to have a winning season.

Western Illinois University Leathernecks

Competing in the Summit League, Western Illinois University Leathernecks are a member of NCAA Division I. Its men’s basketball team won the Summit League tournament in 1984, and was regular season champions in 1983 and 2013. Its football team is a member of the Football Championship Subdivision and has reached the FCS playoffs on eleven occasions, including a Semifinals run in 1998.

Types of Bets in Illinois

If you’re looking to place a bet in Illinois, you have a variety of options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular types of bets you’ll find on professional sports in the state. However, different states have restrictions on college sports betting. So check before placing a bet and make sure you understand how betting odds work.

• Moneyline: The simplest type of bet, where you pick the team or player you think will win the game. Odds are expressed as a plus or minus number indicating the favorite or underdog.
• Point Spread: A type of bet where the underdog is given a point advantage to level the playing field. The favorite must win by a certain number of points to cover the spread.
• Totals: Also known as over/under bets, these bets allow you to wager on the total number of points scored in a game, regardless of which team wins.
• Props: Short for proposition bets, these are bets on specific events within a game, such as the first team to score or the number of touchdowns a player will score.
• Parlays: A bet that combines multiple individual bets into one. All bets must be correct for the parlay to pay out, but the potential payout is higher than with individual bets.
• Futures: Bets on events that will happen in the future, such as which team will win the championship. Futures bets can be placed well in advance of the event and can offer higher payouts.

Each type of bet offers its own unique set of risks and rewards. Consider your goals and level of risk before making bets right for you. With so many options available in Illinois, you’re sure to find a bet that matches your style and interests.

Illinois Sports Betting Locations

Illinois Lottery Locations

The Illinois Lottery does not offer sports betting on its own and has not announced any plans to partner with gaming operators. However, speculation is that the lottery may eventually explore sports betting options.

How does Illinois Compare to Other States?

Market Coverage

Illinois is one of the largest sports betting markets in the United States, and seven online sportsbooks currently operate in the state, including major national brands such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM.

Competitive Odds & Prices

Illinois sportsbooks generally offer competitive odds and prices, similar to other leading states such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania. However, the odds and prices can vary by operator and sports league. Some sportsbooks may offer better odds on certain sports or events than others, so you must compare the odds and prices across multiple sportsbooks before placing their bets.

Gambling Revenue

Illinois has seen strong growth in sports betting revenue since legalizing sports betting in 2019, with over $1 billion in bets in 2020. The state levies a 15% tax on sports betting revenue, with the proceeds primarily directed toward education and infrastructure. As the market matures and additional operators enter, Illinois is expected to see continued growth in sports betting revenue.

Betting Taxes

Illinois imposes a 15% tax on sports betting revenue, which is in line with other leading sports betting states such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Federal taxes are also levied on sports betting winnings, with a minimum withholding of 24% on winnings over $5,000. You must report your sports betting winnings on annual tax returns and may be required to provide a W2-G form for larger winnings.

Illinois DFS

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) contests allow players to create fantasy teams using real-world players from a particular league and compete against other players. DFS was legalized in Illinois in 2019 as part of the Sports Wagering Act. Illinois residents can participate in DFS games for major sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL through various online operators such as FanDuel and DraftKings.

Best Online Betting Site in Illinois

Illinois is a flexible market with lots of operators, and our review team found multiple operators that offer a great service for bettors. Despite that, our industry experts found that DraftKings IL offers the best range of markets, competitive odds, and great features like live streaming and in-play betting, along with DFS integration and NFT games that you’ll struggle to find anywhere else.

Want to sign up? Click any link to DraftKings on this page to be redirected to its homepage, where you can register and claim your generous welcome bonus.

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