Australian sports betting operator PointsBet has partnered the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians for a path into Michigan’s regulated betting and igaming market.
Through the 20-year agreement, PointsBet will launch mobile and desktop sports betting offerings in the state, as well as a branded tribal product. The partnership could be expanded into the retail channel in future, with PointsBet in negotiations to operate a sportsbook at the tribe’s Northern Waters Casino Resort.
The move follows the ratification of Brandt Iden’s bill to legalise betting and igaming in the state, House Bill 4311, on 19 December.
James Williams Jr, Lac Vieux Desert tribal chairman, said the agreement would help provide revenue to keep the tribe self-sufficient.
“The tribe is excited to join forces with PointsBet to further the tribe’s economic development efforts and expand gaming online as allowable under Michigan and federal law.”
“We are confident that this new opportunity will strengthen the tribe’s self-sufficiency and self-determination efforts and provide much needed revenue to continue to expand and enhance tribal governmental services as well as provide jobs for the LVD community.”
PointsBet group chief executive Sam Sewell said he was pleased to work with a tribe such as the Las Vieux Desert Band.
“PointsBet is pleased to have reached an agreement for both online sportsbook and online casino operations with such a forward-thinking tribe and we look forward to many years of great success working together in Michigan,” Sewell said.
It is one of two market access agreements announced in Michigan today (January 20), following a similar deal between The Stars Group and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.