
Arkansas Sports Betting
Arkansas Sportsbooks & Legal Updates March 2026

Since the state went live with mobile sports betting in March 2022, Arkansas has been a "casinos-only" market. While state law allows for up to eight mobile licenses, a unique requirement for national sportsbook operators to share 51% of net revenue with local casino partners effectively kept the industry’s biggest names out of the state for years.
That changed in February 2026.
In a major shift, DraftKings and FanDuel have officially received sports betting licenses to enter the Arkansas market. This landmark move signals the end of the state’s reliance on homegrown apps like BetSaracen, Oaklawn Sports, and Betly. These national sportsbook powerhouses could go live very soon—just in time to capture significant March Madness betting volume.
The Action Network is keeping tabs on everything you need to know about Arkansas sports betting, including this rapidly developing situation. Read on for more updates regarding AR sportsbooks, Arkansas betting legal updates, etc.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Arkansas?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Arkansas for both in-person and online wagering. The journey to a legal market happened in two distinct stages:
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The 2018 Vote (Retail): In November 2018, Arkansas voters approved Amendment 100. This constitutional amendment authorized four casino licenses (in Crittenden, Garland, Pope, and Jefferson counties) and specifically legalized "wagering on sporting events" at these locations. The first legal retail bet was placed at Oaklawn in July 2019.
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The 2022 Launch (Online): While the 2018 vote legalized the act of sports betting, it didn't explicitly create a framework for mobile apps. It wasn't until March 4, 2022, that state regulators finalized the rules to allow statewide online betting.
Today, the industry is regulated by the Arkansas Racing Commission (ARC). To bet legally, you must be at least 21 years old and physically located within state lines.
🚨 Breaking News: DraftKings and FanDuel Receive Arkansas Sportsbook Licenses 🚨
For years, Arkansas was a "national gap" on the sports betting map because of the state’s unique 51% revenue-share rule. Under this regulation, any national sportsbook that partners with a local casino must hand over the majority (51%) of its net revenue to that casino.
In most other legal online sports betting states, national brands keep 85% to 95% of the revenue, which left Arkansas on the backburner of expansion operations.
The "Big Two" previously balked at these terms, but the landscape changed in February 2026 when both DraftKings and FanDuel officially received license applications. The shift is driven by three main factors:
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Missouri Pressure: Since Missouri launched its own sports betting market in December 2025, Arkansas has faced increased pressure to offer competitive national apps to prevent residents from driving across the border to place bets.
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Launch Timing: The Arkansas Racing Commission approved these licenses at its meeting on February 26, 2026. Both apps aim to launch immediately to capture the massive betting volume of March Madness.
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Market Maturity: After four years of "homegrown" dominance, national operators are betting that their superior technology and massive marketing budgets can still turn a profit, even with the steep 51% revenue cut.
- Potential for Better Revenue Share Deal: It's hard to believe that DraftKings and FanDuel are suddenly surrendering to Arkansas' 51% rev-share rule. There could be talks of a deal that's more favorable to national operators, which would allow DraftKings and FanDuel to keep more of their profits if they launch in the Natural State.
See our review of the anticipated FanDuel Arkansas promo code for more details!
Arkansas Sportsbooks Live Now
While we wait for two of the best sportsbooks to go live in Arkansas, three local online sports betting apps currently serve the state. Each is tethered to one of the state's land-based casinos.
BetSaracen
The mobile platform for Saracen Casino Resort, BetSaracen is the heavy hitter in the state. It is highly regarded for its "Saracen Specials"—unique daily odds boosts tailored specifically to Arkansas sports fans.
Oaklawn Sports
Hailing from the legendary Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, this app is the go-to for bettors who value heritage. It offers a clean, integrated experience for those who want to jump between the sportsbook and the historic racing markets Oaklawn is famous for.
Betly
Partnered with Southland Casino Hotel, Betly was the first mobile sportsbook to take a legal wager in Arkansas. It offers a straightforward, no-nonsense interface that remains a popular choice for bettors who want a fast, reliable app without excessive clutter.
According to the framework approved by the Arkansas Joint Budget Committee, up to eight mobile sportsbooks are authorized to operate in the state—two for each of the four licensed casinos.
Arkansas Legalization Timeline
Here's a look at legal updates that brought legal online sports betting to Arkansas:
- February 2026: On February 26, Arkansas Racing & Gaming Commission unanimously approved sports betting vendor licenses for FanDuel and DraftKings to partner with Oaklawn and Southland Casinos, respectively.
- February 2026: On February 19, news broke that DraftKings and FanDuel officially submitted license applications to the state, signaling their willingness to finally accept the 51% revenue-share rule.
- September 2022: On September 2, Oaklawn Sports launched its mobile app, becoming the third and final homegrown sportsbook available to Arkansas bettors.
- May 2022: On May 10, BetSaracen officially went live as the state's second mobile sportsbook, quickly becoming a market leader through its heavy focus on local Razorback betting boosts.
- March 2022: On March 5, Betly became the first legal online sportsbook to launch in Arkansas, though it was initially only available via web browser before releasing its iOS and Android apps in April.
- February 2022: On February 22, the Arkansas Joint Budget Committee gave the final green light to mobile sports betting rules, paving the way for a launch just in time for March Madness.
- January 2022: On January 25, the Arkansas Racing Commission briefly pulled mobile betting from the legislative agenda to address regulatory concerns, effectively ending hopes of a launch before Super Bowl 56.
- December 2021: On December 30, the Arkansas Racing Commission unanimously approved a rules change to allow statewide mobile betting, including the controversial requirement for national books to share 51% of revenue with local casinos.
- April 2021: On April 1, House Bill 1942 was introduced as an attempt to legalize mobile wagering through the legislature, but the session ended without the bill ever seeing a floor vote.
- January 2021: On January 1, Senate Bill 669 was proposed to authorize mobile sports betting, but like previous legislative attempts, it failed to gain the necessary traction to move forward.
- October 2019: On October 1, the Saracen Casino Resort opened in Pine Bluff, introducing the state’s third retail sportsbook to the market.
- July 2019: On July 1, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort took the first legal sports bet in Arkansas history, followed shortly by Southland Casino Racing opening its retail sportsbook.
- November 2018: On November 6, Arkansas voters passed Amendment 100, a ballot initiative that authorized four casino licenses and legalized in-person sports wagering at those locations.
What Can I Bet on in Arkansas?
Arkansas sportsbooks let users bet on a wide range of markets and leagues:
Legal Betting Markets in Arkansas
Sports fans can bet a full range of bet types, including:
- Point Spreads. Spread betting is a bet on the final score and the margin of victory in a game.
- Moneylines. Moneyline betting is when you pick the outright winner of a game or event, either one team or another.
- First Half & Second Half. Halves let a bettor treat the first half and the second half as separate matches.
- Totals aka "Over/Unders". A total, also known as an over/under, is a bet on the number of points both teams will combine to score in a game.
- Parlays. A parlay combines multiple bets into a single wager; parlays are harder to win but come with increased payouts if all legs hit.
- Futures. Future bets are bets on events that will be decided in further in the future (e.g., end-of-season results and awards).
- Player Props. A "prop" bet, short for a proposition, is a wager that is not directly tied to the final score or outcome. Player props deal with player stats ranging from rushing yards to three pointers made.
Good news: Arkansas does not have restrictions on the types of collegiate wagers you can place, which is a significant benefit for local bettors compared to many other states.
While dozens of jurisdictions have banned college player props or prohibited wagering on in-state teams (like the Razorbacks), Arkansas allows the full betting menu. This means you can legally bet on an individual player’s performance or back the Hogs from anywhere in the state without the limitations found in neighboring markets (think Tennessee and Louisiana).
Available Sports
You can take advantage of the different bet types to wager on these sports legally:
- Football: NFL & CFL
- Basketball: NBA, WNBA, European/international basketball leagues
- Baseball: MLB
- Hockey: NHL, international hockey leagues
- Soccer: MLS, English Premier League, UEFA Champions League
- College sports: NCAA football and basketball
- Golf: PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, PGA Tour Champions, PGA European Tour
- Auto Racing: IndyCar, NASCAR, Formula One
Additional leagues like boxing, tennis, rugby and more are also offered at AR sportsbooks.
Arkansas Sports Betting Tips
Sports Betting for Beginners
New to sports betting? Check out our sports betting tips for beginners so you can get started, whether you want to bet on the Arkansas Razorbacks or other teams.
Sports Betting Glossary
The sports betting lexicon is vast and sometimes confusing, especially to new bettors. Check out our sports betting glossary to get up to speed with every term you might need to know before a parlay or prop bet.
Sports Betting Mistakes to Avoid
Betting on your favorite teams like the Arkansas State Red Wolves might seem like a no-brainer, but you need to be careful if you’re going to stay healthy all around in the sports betting world.
Here are some sports betting mistakes to avoid.
Arkansas Horse Racing
Long before the launch of digital sportsbooks, horse racing was the heartbeat of gambling in the Natural State. Today, Arkansas remains a premier destination for thoroughbred racing, anchored by the world-famous Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs. Whether you prefer the roar of the crowd at the track or the convenience of betting from home, Arkansas offers several legal avenues for pari-mutuel wagering, including retail locations and TwinSpires:
TwinSpires Arkansas
TwinSpires is an excellent option for horse racing fans in Arkansas. Take a look at the current promo sign-up offer and promo code below!
TwinSpires Promo
TwinSpires Promo Code
Action Network Score
9.1/10. We recommend reading our TwinSpires Promo Code review for more details on this top horse racing app.
Bonuses & Promotions Mobile App & Website Registering & Cashiering Betting Options TwinSpires vs Other Horse Racing Apps
DFS in Arkansas
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) has enjoyed a legal and regulated status in Arkansas since 2017, making it one of the most accessible ways to engage with your favorite leagues. While traditional sportsbooks were tied up in regulatory debates for years, DFS platforms remained a go-to alternative for fans of player-specific contests. If you're looking for an alternative to standard point spreads and moneylines, these top-rated DFS apps are fully operational in the state:
Underdog Arkansas
Underdog is one of the best DFS options out there. It offers Best Ball contests, traditional pick'em, and more:
Underdog Promo
Play $5, Get $75 in Fantasy Bonus Entries!
Underdog Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. Offer not valid in MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, and PA. Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-MY-RESET or 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org. NY: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369).
Action Network Score
8.7/10. We recommend reading our Underdog Promo Code and review for more details on this unique DFS app.
Bonuses & Promotions Mobile App & Website Registering & Cashiering Betting Options Underdog vs Other DFS Apps
Dabble Fantasy Arkansas
Dabble is one of the newest DFS apps that offers a competitive multiplier.
Dabble Fantasy Promo
Get $10 When You Sign-Up to Dabble!
Dabble Fantasy Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
CONDITIONS APPLY. SEE T&CS. Applicable to US customers only. Must be 18+ (21+ in MA,TN & 19+ in NE) and present in a US state where Dabble operates. Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org
Action Network Score
9/10. Read our Dabble Fantasy Promo Code & Review for more details.

Sleeper Fantasy Arkansas
Sleeper Fantasy is another robust DFS platform available in the Natural State.
Sleeper Fantasy Promo
Get Free $20+100% Deposit Match up to $100!
Sleeper Fantasy Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Must be 18+ (19+ or 21+ depending on state of residence) and within applicable state. Not available in NJ. Full T&Cs apply.
Action Network Score
9.1/10. Read our Sleeper Fantasy Promo Code & Review for more details.

Betr Picks Fantasy Arkansas
Betr is a rising fantasy app that's live in over 20 states.
Betr Picks Promo
Get Up to $200 Back in Bonus + a Free Pick!
Betr Picks Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
The promotion consists of two $100 max tokens; if either loses, you will receive your entry fee back in Betr Bucks (max $200 total). Must be 18+ (19+ in AL & CO; 21+ AZ, MA, & VA) and physically located in a jurisdiction where Betr Picks operates. Restrictions apply. Void where prohibited. T&Cs apply. For more details, please visit betr.app. Concerned about your play? Call the NCPG at 1-800-522-4700.
Action Network Score
8.9/10. Check out our Betr Promo Code and review for more info on how the micro-betting app works.
Boom Fantasy Arkansas
Boom Fantasy offers Pick ‘Em: Toss-Ups (Over/Under), Longshots, Favorites, and Matchups.
Boom Fantasy Promo
Get a Risk-Free Entry up to $100!
Boom Fantasy Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Must be 18+ (19+ or 21+ depending on state of residence) and within applicable state. Full T&Cs apply.
Action Network Score
9/10. Check out our Boom Fantasy Promo Code & Review for more details.
Chalkboard DFS Arkansas
Chalkboard is a DFS pick’em app that blends daily fantasy with a Social Sports Picks mode in some states. You predict over/under on projections; hit more, win more.
Chalkboard Promo
Get a 100% Deposit Match up to $100 + Free Pick!
Chalkboard Promo Code
Action Network Score
Rating Coming Soon. Until then, our Chalkboard Promo Code & Review.
Bleacher Nation Fantasy Arkansas
Bleacher Nation Fantasy is another exciting DFS option for players located in Arkansas.
Bleacher Nation Fantasy Promo
Get a 50% Deposit Match up to $250!
Bleacher Nation Fantasy Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Must be 18+ (19+ in NE; 21+ in MA and VA) and present in a state where Bleacher Nation Fantasy powered by Draft Logics operates. Terms apply. See https://draftlogics.com/terms for details. Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org
Action Network Score
8.7/10. We recommend reading our Bleacher Nation Fantasy Promo Code and review for more details.
OwnersBox Fantasy Arkansas
OwnersBox Fantasy is another great DFS option that offers all features for players in Arkansas.
OwnersBox Promo
Get a 100% Deposit Match up to $100 with your First Deposit!
OwnersBox Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Must be 18+ (19+ or 21+ depending on state of residence) and within applicable state. Full T&Cs apply.
Action Network Score
8/10. Check out our OwnersBox Promo Code & Review for more details.
PrizePicks Arkansas
PrizePicks is a good choice for those looking for an alternative and legal DFS option in Arkansas. Over/under totals are created daily for players. Users only have to pick their lineups for a chance to win.
PrizePicks Promo
Play $5, Get $50 in Lineups - Instantly!
PrizePicks Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Must be 19+ (or 21+ depending on jurisdiction) and within applicable state. Full T&C apply. Play Responsibly.
Action Network Score
9.4/10. We recommend reading our PrizePicks Promo Code and review for more details on this unique DFS app.
Bonuses & Promotions Mobile App & Website Registering & Cashiering Betting Options PrizePicks vs Other DFS Apps
Arkansas Social Sportsbooks
Social sportsbooks have become a popular legal alternative for Arkansas fans who enjoy the thrill of making picks without the traditional sportsbook structure. Unlike real-money sites, these platforms operate under sweepstakes laws and use a dual-currency system: "Gold Coins" for fun and "Sweeps Coins" that can be redeemed for real cash prizes. Because they are not classified as gambling, these apps often feature unique social elements like leaderboards and community challenges. Here are the top-rated social sportsbooks available in Arkansas today:
Fliff Social Sportsbook Arkansas
As one of the first social sportsbooks, Fliff offers social betting lines and XP Rewards.
Fliff Sportsbook Promo
Spend $5, Get $50 + 100% Match Up to $100!
Fliff Sportsbook Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Players must be 18+ and be residents of the U.S. Void where prohibited. Please play responsibly. Full T&C Apply.
Action Network Score
8.6/10. We recommend reading our Fliff Promo Code and review for more details on the social sportsbook app.
Bonuses & Promotions Mobile App & Website Registering & Cashiering Betting Options Fliff vs Other Sportsbook Apps
Rebet Social Sportsbook Arkansas
Rebet Social brings a community twist to sports betting, letting you follow friends’ picks and share your own.
Rebet Promo
Get a 100% Deposit Match up to $100!
Rebet Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Players must be 18+ and be residents of the U.S. Mobile only. Please play responsibly.
Action Network Score
8.7/10. Read our Rebet Promo Code & Review for more details.
Thrillzz Social Sportsbook Arkansas
Thrillzz is a social sportsbook with casual betting and game-style challenges across multiple sports. Check the details of Thrillzz's current bonus below.
Thrillzz Promo
Spend $100, Get $200 in Coins + $2 in Coins Free!
Thrillzz Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Players must be 18+ and be residents of the U.S. Void where prohibited. Mobile only. Please play responsibly.
Action Network Score
8.8/10. Read our Thrillzz Promo Code & Review for more details.
Arkansas Prediction Markets
Prediction markets offer a unique alternative to traditional sportsbooks by allowing you to "trade" on the outcome of events like a stock. Instead of betting against a house, you buy and sell shares in outcomes ranging from political elections to economic shifts and sports results. While these platforms are federally regulated as derivatives, the legal landscape in the Natural State is currently shifting; in late 2025, the Arkansas Attorney General issued an opinion stating that prediction markets offering sports contracts may be considered unlicensed gambling. However, for those interested in non-sports event trading, these platforms remain a popular tool for "the wisdom of the crowd":
Kalshi Arkansas
Kalshi is a regulated prediction market in the U.S. where users can trade on the outcomes of real-world events like elections, economics, and sports.
Kalshi Promo
Kalshi Promo Code
Terms and Conditions
Must be 18 years or older and have a legal, U.S. residential address within the applicable state, D.C., or U.S. territories. Not available in AZ, IL, MA, MD, MI, MT, NJ, and OH.
Action Network Score
9/10. We recommend reading our Kalshi Promo Code and Review for more details.
Arkansas Social Casinos
While real-money online casinos have not yet been legalized by the state legislature, Arkansas residents can still enjoy a full suite of slots and table games through social and sweepstakes casinos. These platforms operate legally under "sweepstakes" laws, allowing players to play for free or compete for real cash prizes. If you are looking for a casino experience without visiting a physical resort, these social sites are the top legal alternatives:
Hello Millions Social Casino
Hello Millions is one of the top social casino apps available in most U.S. states. Users located in Arkansas can claim the following welcome offer:
Hello Millions Promo
60 Free SC + 120k GC + Up to 500 Free SC Spins!
Hello Millions Promo Code
Terms & Conditions
No Purchase Necessary. Void Where Prohibited by Law. Not Available in AZ, AL, CA, CT, DE, GA, IN, ID, LA, MI, MS, MT, MD, OH, PA, KY, NJ, NY, NV, TN, UT, WV, WA. Must be 21+. T&Cs Apply.
Action Network Score
Rating Coming Soon. Read our Hello Millions Casino Promo Code & Review.
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Pulsz Casino
The vast social casino offers over 750 games for users to enjoy. Sign up today to redeem the welcome offer below!
Pulsz Casino Promo
Get 1,005,000 Gold Coins + 77.3 Free Sweeps Coins!
Pulsz Casino Promo Code
Terms & Conditions
No Purchase Necessary. Void Where Prohibited by Law. Not Available in AL, AZ, CA, CT, DE, ID, LA, MI, MS, MT, MD, PA, NJ, NY, NV, UT, TN, WA, WV. Must be 21+. T&Cs Apply.
Action Network Score
8/10. Read our Pulsz Casino Promo Code & Review.
Bonuses & Promotions Mobile App & Website Registering & Cashiering Betting Options Pulsz Casino vs Other Social Casinos
McLuck Social Casino
McLuck Casino is a reliable social casino option for social casino players.
McLuck Casino Promo Code
60 Free SC + 120k GC + Up to 500 Free SC Spins!
Chumba Casino Promo Code
Terms & Conditions
No Purchase Necessary. Void Where Prohibited by Law. Not Available in AZ, CA, CT, DE, IN, ID, LA, MI, MS, MT, MD, OH, PA, KY, NJ, NY, NV, TN, UT, WV, WA. Must be 21+. T&Cs Apply.
Action Network Score
Rating Coming Soon.
High 5 Casino
High 5 is a massive social casino that is available in over 40 U.S. states.
High 5 Casino Promo
Get Up To 700 Game Coins, 55 SC + 400 Diamonds + 1 SC Daily!
High 5 Casino Promo Code
Use our links!
Terms & Conditions
No Purchase Necessary. Void Where Prohibited by Law. Not Available in AZ, CA, CT, DE, ID, KY, LA, MI, MS, MD, RI, MT, NJ, NY, NV, TN, UT, PA, WV, WA. Must be 18+. T&Cs Apply.
Action Network Score
8/10. Read our High 5 Casino Promo Code & Review.
Bonuses & Promotions Mobile App & Website Registering & Cashiering Betting Options High 5 Casino vs Other Social Casinos
WOW Vegas Casino
The free-to-play social casino offers more than 500 casino-style games to play!
WOW Vegas Casino Promo
Get 1.75 million WOW Coins + 35 FREE Sweepstake Coins!
WOW Vegas Casino Promo Code
Use our links!
Terms & Conditions
No Purchase Necessary. Void Where Prohibited by Law. Not Available in AZ, CA, CT, DE, ID, LA, MI, MS, MD, MT, PA, NV, NJ, NY, TN, UT, WA, WV. Must be 18+. T&Cs Apply.
Action Network Score
Rating Coming Soon. Read our WOW Vegas Casino Promo Code & Review.
Chanced Casino
Chanced Casino is a social casino known for its massive selection of games, including slots and live dealer options. Here's the current promo for AR users:
Chanced Casino Promo
Get Up To 530,000 Gold Coins + 52 Free SC!
Chanced Casino Promo Code
Terms & Conditions
Void Where Prohibited by Law. Not Available in AZ, CA, CT, DE, ID, LA, MI, MD, MT, MS, PA, NJ, NY, NV, TN, UT, WA, WV. Must be 18+. T&Cs Apply.
Action Network Score
Rating Coming Soon. Until then, read our Chanced Casino Promo Code & Review.
Stake.us Casino
Stake.us Casino is an excellent option for social casino players, especially those looking to use cryptocurrencies.
Stake.us Casino Promo
Get 56 Stake Cash + 560K Gold Coins + 5% Rakeback
Stake.us Casino Promo Code
Terms & Conditions
Void Where Prohibited by Law. Not Available in AZ, CA, CT, DE, ID, LA, MI, MD, MT, MS, NJ, NV, NY, TN, UT, VT, KY, PA, RI, WA, WV. Must be 18+. Offer valid for new users only. User needs to verify their account & email address within 3 days of registering. User will be sent a coupon in their verified email for 250K Gold Coins + $25 Stake Cash.
Action Network Score
Rating Coming Soon. Until then, our Stake.us Casino Promo Code & Review.
Arkansas Teams to Bet On
Here are some of the most popular sports teams that Arkansas bettors wager on:
Pro Sports Teams
While Arkansas lacks its own "Big Four" professional franchises, the state's central location makes it a melting pot of loyalty for powerhouse NFL/NBA/MLB/NHL teams in every direction. From the Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL to the St. Louis Cardinals in MLB and the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA, Arkansas bettors have no shortage of regional "home" teams to back.
College Football Betting
In the land of the Razorbacks, college football is the undisputed king of the sports betting market. Arkansas distinguishes itself from many other states by offering a completely unrestricted betting menu, allowing fans to place wagers on everything from standard point spreads to individual player props for both in-state and out-of-state teams.
Arkansas Razorbacks
The Razorbacks fielded their first team in 1894 and have been a cornerstone of Southern football ever since. While they joined the SEC in 1992, the program's 13 conference championships all stem from their storied era in the Southwest Conference (SWC). In the SEC, the "Hogs" have remained a formidable threat, claiming several SEC West division titles and maintaining fierce, long-standing rivalries with Texas, LSU, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M. Following the 2025 season, the program entered a new chapter by moving on from the Sam Pittman era, focused on returning the "Hog Call" to the top of the SEC standings.
Arkansas State Red Wolves
The Red Wolves of Jonesboro are the state's premier Sun Belt program and have built a reputation for high-octane offense and resilience. While smaller than their Fayetteville counterparts, Arkansas State boasts a rich history that includes a dominant "three-peat" of Sun Belt championships from 2011–2013. Under the leadership of Butch Jones, who revitalized the program with a winning record in 2024 and a long-term contract extension, the Red Wolves have re-established themselves as a perennial bowl contender. Their annual "Paint Bucket Bowl" against the Memphis Tigers remains one of the most intense and celebrated regional rivalries in the Group of Five.
College Basketball Betting in Arkansas
From the high-energy atmosphere of Bud Walton Arena to the madness of the NCAA Tournament, college basketball betting is a year-round powerhouse in Arkansas. The state's open regulatory framework means bettors can get action on every aspect of the game, including deep markets for in-state programs like the Hogs and the Arkansas State Red Wolves.
Arkansas Razorbacks
The Razorbacks are the premier college basketball team in the Natural State, boasting a National Championship and six Final Four appearances. The program entered a high-profile new era in 2024 when legendary coach John Calipari left Kentucky to take over in Fayetteville. Entering the final stretch of the 2025–26 season, Calipari has the Hogs ranked in the Top 25 and contending for a double-bye in the SEC Tournament, signaling a return to the elite status the program enjoyed during its most storied decades.
Arkansas State Red Wolves
Competing in the Sun Belt Conference, the Red Wolves have seen a significant resurgence in recent years. After a successful stint under Bryan Hodgson, the program is now led by head coach Ryan Pannone, who arrived in 2025 with a background in the NBA G-League and as a key assistant at Alabama. With a history that includes an NCAA Tournament appearance and multiple conference titles, the Red Wolves remain one of the most dangerous mid-major programs in the region, known for a fast-paced, modern style of play.
Central Arkansas Bears
Based in Conway, the Bears are members of the Atlantic Sun (ASUN) Conference, having transitioned from the Southland in 2021. The program is currently led by head coach John Shulman, who took over in 2024 and has quickly turned UCA into a top-tier ASUN contender, currently sitting near the top of the conference standings. While the Bears are still hunting for their first NCAA Division I Tournament appearance, they remain famous as the home of NBA legend and Chicago Bulls great Scottie Pippen.
Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Wolves
This historic HBCU program competes in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and maintains a deeply loyal fanbase that frequently leads the conference in attendance. The Golden Lions are currently led by head coach Solomon Bozeman, an Arkansas native who has revitalized the program through strong recruiting and a defensive-minded culture. Since joining the SWAC in 1997, the Golden Lions have claimed a conference championship and an NCAA Tournament win (2010), continuing to serve as a major pillar of Arkansas collegiate basketball.
Responsible Gambling in Arkansas
As sports betting expands in the Natural State, both regulators and operators emphasize that wagering should remain a form of entertainment, not a financial strategy. In Arkansas, responsible gambling is overseen by the Arkansas Racing Commission, which ensures that all licensed platforms provide users with the tools necessary to stay in control.
Sportsbook Responsible Gambling Tools
All legal Arkansas sportsbooks, including upcoming national brands like DraftKings and FanDuel, are required to offer integrated player-protection tools. These typically include:
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Deposit & Spend Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much money you can add to your account or wager.
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Time-Outs: Temporarily "freeze" your account for a period ranging from 72 hours to several weeks.
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Self-Exclusion: A more permanent measure that allows you to voluntarily ban yourself from all legal gambling platforms in the state for one year, five years, or a lifetime.
Professional Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available 24/7 through several dedicated organizations:
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Arkansas Problem Gambling Council (ARPG): The primary local advocate for treatment and education in the state.
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Website:
arpgcouncil.org -
Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
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National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): A national resource offering confidential support.
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Call/Text: 1-800-MY-RESET (The new national standard as of 2026)
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Chat:
ncpgambling.org/chat
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Gamblers Anonymous (GA): A fellowship of individuals who share their experiences to help others recover from a gambling problem through local and virtual 12-step meetings.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
This Casino and Racetrack boasts over 1,500 slots, 32 tables, and a sportsbook. Oaklawn is the central-most located casino in Arkansas, and consists of a resort with a spa, as well as over 10 dining/drinking options for those not interested in gaming.
Southland Park Gaming and Racing
This location is currently undergoing renovations to expand the casino and add a resort. However, this doesn’t mean the property is small. With over 2,000 slots, 24 tables, a racetrack, and a sportsbook, this casino has a wide array of gaming options. There are also 6 dining/drinking options for those looking for refreshments.
Saracen Casino Resort
The second central-most gaming location in Arkansas, Saracen has over 2,300 slot machines, 50 tables, and a poker room. With so many gaming options, including a sportsbook, it is important that guests have a place to rest their heads after a night of excitement. This casino has a resort on site as well as 4 drinking/dining options.







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