Texas is one of the largest states in the U.S. both in terms of size and population. Known for its rich cultural heritage and pride in independence, Texas also has a storied history of sports. From the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and the NBA’s Houston Rockets to world-class college football, basketball, and baseball teams, the state has a deep connection to sports. In recent years, the world of sports betting has gained significant attention, and many are wondering about the legality of sports betting sites in Texas, what platforms are available, and how they compare to other states where betting has been fully legalized. In this article, we explore the legal landscape, popular platforms, and trends in Texas sports betting.
Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in Texas
As of early 2025, Texas has not legalized sports betting within the state, making it one of the few states in the U.S. where the practice is still restricted. Unlike neighboring states like Louisiana and Arkansas, which have legalized sports betting, Texas has yet to pass any laws that explicitly allow for regulated sports betting within its borders. This situation has left residents seeking alternatives to access Sports Betting Sites Texas opportunities, including offshore platforms and legal betting options in neighboring states.
Legality and Efforts to Legalize Sports Betting in Texas
The legal framework for sports betting in the U.S. changed dramatically in 2018 when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) that the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), which had banned sports betting outside of Nevada, was unconstitutional. This decision allowed individual states to pass their own laws legalizing sports betting.
In the years following this decision, states across the country moved quickly to regulate and legalize sports betting. However, Texas lawmakers have been slower to take action. While there have been several attempts to introduce bills to legalize sports betting in Texas, none have yet passed. The primary reason for this hesitance is the political landscape in Texas, where conservative lawmakers have voiced concerns about the social and ethical implications of gambling.
Despite the slow pace of legislative change, there are proponents of legalization in Texas, including some of the state’s professional sports teams, who argue that legalized sports betting could bring significant revenue to the state. However, Texas lawmakers have yet to pass any bills, and it remains to be seen if the state will join the growing list of states with legal sports betting in the near future.
Offshore Sports Betting Sites: An Alternative for Texans
Since sports betting remains illegal in Texas, many residents have turned to offshore sports betting sites to place their bets legally under international law. These platforms operate outside the jurisdiction of U.S. authorities and often allow Texans to participate in sports betting activities that are otherwise prohibited in their home state.
Some of the most popular offshore sports betting sites for Texans include:
1. Bovada
Bovada is one of the most popular offshore betting sites and offers a wide range of sports betting options, including football, basketball, baseball, and more. The site is known for its easy-to-use interface and competitive odds. Bovada also offers a generous sign-up bonus for new customers and secure payment methods. The site supports both desktop and mobile platforms, making it a convenient option for Texans on the go.
2. BetOnline
BetOnline is another well-known offshore sportsbook that offers an extensive selection of betting markets. Whether you’re interested in major sports like the NFL or NBA, or niche sports like soccer and motorsports, BetOnline has you covered. It also offers live betting, allowing users to place bets in real time during sporting events.
BetOnline is known for its fast payouts and secure payment options, which make it a favorite among sports bettors from Texas.
3. MyBookie
MyBookie is another reputable offshore sportsbook that has been catering to the U.S. market for years. The platform provides a wide variety of sports to bet on, including football, baseball, and hockey, as well as esports and virtual sports. MyBookie also offers enticing bonuses and promotions, making it a good choice for both new and experienced sports bettors.
MyBookie is also known for its fast and secure withdrawal process, which has earned it a solid reputation among online sports bettors.
4. SportsBetting.ag
SportsBetting.ag has earned its reputation as one of the top offshore sportsbooks catering to U.S. bettors. It offers a broad selection of sports, including niche markets like boxing, golf, and even politics. SportsBetting.ag also provides live betting options and competitive odds.
The platform’s customer service is top-notch, and the site accepts a variety of payment methods, making it a reliable choice for Texans seeking sports betting opportunities.
Sports Betting in Neighboring States
While Texas has not legalized sports betting, residents of the Lone Star State can easily drive to neighboring states where sports betting is legal and place their bets there. For example, Louisiana and Arkansas have legalized sports betting, providing convenient options for Texans looking to place wagers in person or online.
Louisiana
In November 2020, Louisiana voters approved a referendum to legalize sports betting in the state. Since then, Louisiana has implemented a regulated sports betting market, offering both in-person and online sports betting options. Residents of Texas can easily cross into Louisiana to take advantage of this option. Several online sportsbooks, such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM, operate legally in Louisiana, and Texans can use these platforms to place bets while in the state.
Arkansas
Arkansas has also legalized sports betting, allowing residents and visitors to place wagers at physical sportsbooks. While Arkansas doesn’t yet have a robust online sports betting infrastructure, residents of Texas can visit one of the state’s legal sportsbooks and place bets in person.
Popular Sports to Bet On in Texas
Despite the legal obstacles, Texas is home to a passionate sports fanbase, with many eager to place bets on their favorite teams. Some of the most popular sports for betting in Texas include:
- Football: The NFL is king in Texas, and Texans are avid fans of the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans. College football is also immensely popular, with the University of Texas and Texas A&M University having dedicated fanbases.
- Basketball: The NBA is a major draw in Texas, with teams like the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets boasting a strong following. College basketball is also popular, especially around March Madness.
- Baseball: The Texas Rangers, Major League Baseball’s team in the state, has a dedicated fanbase, and baseball betting remains popular in the state.
- Soccer: Soccer has gained popularity in Texas, with the state’s two MLS teams, FC Dallas and the Houston Dynamo, drawing large crowds.
Future of Sports Betting in Texas
While sports betting remains illegal in Texas for now, the increasing momentum for legalization across the country may eventually lead to changes. Public opinion on sports betting in Texas is shifting, with growing support for legalization as a potential revenue stream for the state. If Texas lawmakers take action in the coming years, sports betting could become a booming industry within the state.
In the meantime, Texans will continue to rely on offshore betting sites and neighboring states for their sports betting activities, but the future of sports betting in Texas is uncertain. As the landscape evolves, residents and lawmakers will need to closely watch developments in other states and the shifting public opinion in Texas to gauge when or if sports betting will ever become a legal and regulated industry in the state.
Conclusion
Sports betting in Texas remains in a state of flux, with the practice still prohibited despite the growing popularity of the activity nationwide. While Texans can rely on offshore sports betting sites or cross into neighboring states with legalized sports betting, the lack of local regulation creates a complex environment for bettors. As more states legalize sports betting and public support grows in Texas, it is likely that the state will eventually take steps to regulate and embrace this popular form of entertainment. Until then, Texans will have to explore alternative avenues for their sports betting needs.