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Tennessee sports betting became legal in 2019 and saw the state introduce online-only sports betting for residents to enjoy. Since then, 12 online sportsbooks have launched in The Volunteer State, opening the doors for avid bettors to wager on their most-loved teams and sports.

In this guide, we take a closer look at TN sports betting, the laws, taxes, bonuses offered and the available sports markets. We also rank and review five of the best state-regulated sportsbooks TN residents can enjoy and show you how to sign up and start betting. So, keep reading to learn more about the unique world of Tennessee sports wagering.

List of Best Tennessee Sports Betting Sites

Since the introduction of legal Tennessee sports betting in 2019, over 12 licensed and regulated sportsbooks have established themselves in the state. Below, we offer you our list of the top five options we recommend trying.

  1. DraftKings – Best Tennessee Sports Betting Site
  2. BetMGM – Top TN Sportsbook for Live Betting
  3. PointsBet – Leading TN Sportsbook for Mobile Wagering
  4. BetRivers – Best Tennessee Sportsbook for Live-Streaming
  5. FanDuel – TN Sports Betting Site with Extensive Betting Lines

The Latest News on Tennessee Sports Betting

The legalization of Tennessee sports betting in 2019 means there hasn’t been much action in recent years. However, the state has introduced a few minor amendments that improve a player’s overall betting experience. So, let’s look:

  • October 2022: Tennessee renews its sports betting licenses for FanDuel, BetMGM, and DraftKings.
  • March/April 2021: Three new sportsbooks apps launch in TN.
  • November 2020: Tennessee sports betting goes live, offering bettors the opportunity to place wagers online. 

Best Betting Sites in Tennessee Reviewed

Now that you have our list of the five best Tennessee sports betting sites let’s review each in detail to see what they offer and why our experts chose them.

1. DraftKings – Best Tennessee Sports Betting Site Overall

DraftKings

American-made for American sports fans, DraftKings is one of the leading regulated sportsbooks in the US. So, it is no wonder that when Tennessee sports betting became legal, the state issued one of its first licenses to this sporting giant.

When browsing DraftKings’ sports market collection, bettors will discover over 20 options, from daily fantasy sports to all-American favorites like the NCAA, NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, Esports, snooker, and cycling. The sportsbook balances these with equally as extensive betting options, offering TN bettors the opportunity to place moneylines, spreads, totals, runlines, and props. Further, players can access these options and more on a desktop website or by downloading the DraftKings mobile app.

Another area DraftKings excels in is its selection of promotions aimed at boosting the bankrolls of its loyal bettors. As a result, players can input DraftKings promo codes and unlock various fun rewards. Finally, players hoping to fund their DraftKings accounts using cryptocurrency are out of luck, as the sportsbook doesn’t accept this payment method. However, bettors can use options like Visa, MasterCard, gift cards, PayPal, and cash which they can deposit at local participating stores like  7-Eleven.

Pros:

  • Players can fund their accounts in person
  • Provides a highly compatible mobile app
  • Site is simple to use
  • Features over 20 sports markets
  • Relatively fast payouts

Cons:

  • No cryptocurrency accepted
  • Only offered in some states

2. BetMGM – Top Online TN Sportsbook for Live Betting

BetMGM

The self-proclaimed king of online sportsbooks, BetMGM, falls under the broad gambling umbrella of the MGM group that offers casinos and betting establishments across the US. So, it makes sense then that when Tennessee sports betting launched, BetMGM established a sportsbook in the state.

Sports fans visiting BetMGM online can browse over 14 different sports, from NASCAR and Formula1 to boxing, lacrosse, the MLB, NFL, and NHL. Additionally, the site ranks as one of Tennessee’s best NBA betting sites. Players can expand their ways to win by placing several bets online, from moneylines and spreads to totals, futures, parlays, and props. However, BetMGM stands out for its live betting suite, where bettors can place wagers on sports matches already in play for greater action and excitement.

TN bettors will be satisfied with the promotions offered, which include a selection of options for new and existing players that they can claim using BetMGM promo codes. However, BetMGM could improve its banking options, which offer players limited ways to deposit and withdraw funds from their betting accounts. As a result, players can choose between Apple Pay, online banking, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, bank wire transfers, and PayPal. But despite these minimal offerings, players can be sure that BetMGM processes all transactions efficiently.

Pros:

  • Quick processing of payouts
  • Low minimum withdrawal requirements
  • Leading site for NBA fans
  • One of the best live betting suites
  • Offers competitive odds

Cons:

  • Minimal payment choices
  • Customer service could improve

3. PointsBet – Leading Online TN Sportsbook for Mobile Wagering

PointsBet

A diverse gambling brand, PointsBet offers sportsbooks across the globe. As a result, the company has honed its mobile offerings and ranks as one of the leading regulated mobile sportsbooks in the US. So, players wanting to enjoy Tennessee sports betting on their tablets and smartphones will find PointsBet is the app to download. In addition to excellent compatibility with iOS and Android operating systems, the app functions on various devices, is quick to download, and offers all the same features found on the sportsbook website.

Players using the mobile app or the desktop website can browse the sportsbook’s promotions to find the one that most appeals to them and then claim it using the PointsBet promo code, boosting their betting funds in the process. When funding their accounts, players can use several methods on PointsBet, including PayNearMe, eCheck, online banking with Trustly, and a debit or credit card from Visa or MasterCard.

PointsBet gives sports fans multiple markets to wager on, like the MLB, NHL, NFL, NBA, NCAA, MMA, cycling, darts, Aussie Rules, and cricket and boosts this offering with a selection of betting lines. Further, bettors can place pre-game wagers or visit the live betting suite and make bets like parlays, moneylines, teasers, spreads, totals, fixed odds, player props, game props, and lightning bets. Finally, before placing their wagers, TN bettors can read through the extensive news and stats the sportsbook provides on each team participating in a match to help them make a more informed decision.

Pros:

  • Gives gamers the latest news and stats
  • Extensive betting lines
  • Offers unique sports to wager on
  • Well-run customer support
  • Fantastic downloadable app

Cons:

  • Lengthy payout waiting period
  • Poor site aesthetics

4. BetRivers – Best Online Tennessee Sportsbook for Live-Streaming

BetRivers

Another leading sportsbook on our list is BetRivers. In addition to an online casino, the site also offers a premium sportsbook app. As a result, TN bettors can enjoy BetRivers online using the highly compatible mobile app.

When using this sportsbook, bettors can enjoy a handful of exciting promotions, all redeemable with BetRivers promo codes. In addition, the sportsbook makes its mark with an exceptional VIP program, iRush, that allows bettors to accumulate points, move up the ladder, and enjoy exciting prizes. For instance, VIP dinners, BetRivers Swag, cash prizes, and promos are all up for grabs.

Funding a BetRivers account is simple and covers a heap of options for players to use, from PayNearMe, Vanilla, Play+ prepaid cards, PayPal, eCheck, online banking, bank wire transfers, and credit cards like Visa, Discover, and MasterCard. However, BetRivers continues this range of choices to its sports markets, offering fans options like the NHL, NBA, NFL, NCAA, MMA, and gold. Further, this Tennessee sports betting site ranks as one of the best MLB betting sites in the state and covers unique sports like jai alai, boxing and cycling. Lastly, players can place various wagers and visit the sportsbook’s live dealer suite, which also allows bettors to live-stream sports matches so they can catch their teams in action.

Pros:

  • Live-streams most sports events
  • Offers excellent odds
  • Low transaction deposit and withdrawal limits
  • Provides a cash-out feature
  • Wide variety of payment methods

Cons:

  • Not widely available
  • No crypto transactions offered

5. FanDuel – TN Sports Betting Site with Extensive Betting Lines

FanDuel

FanDuel is an American gambling company that started out offering bettors a platform to wager on daily fantasy sports. However, it has since expanded and now provides various gambling options, including a sportsbook, a racebook, and an online casino. However, the site stands out as one of the leading Tennessee sports betting sites thanks to its impressive range of sports and betting markets. Firstly, TN bettors can wager on all their favorites, like basketball, hockey, baseball, motorsports, football, and other sports. Then, when they have picked their sport, bettors can choose from a selection of betting lines, including moneylines, runlines, spreads, totals, and build parlays. But, if you enjoy placing prop bets, FanDuel is the site for you as it offers some of the most extensive game and player prop options, giving you more ways to win.

In contrast to its competitors, FanDuel also provides a more varied selection of payment methods, offering options like credit cards, PayPal, FanDuel gift cards, Green Dot MoneyPak, PayNearMe, money orders or checks, and bank wire transfers. However, the sportsbook applies a higher fee to bank wire transactions. Finally, whether bettors access FanDuel using the downloadable app or the desktop website, they can claim unique and generous bonuses using FanDuel promo codes.

Pros:

  • Excellent site for beginners
  • Covers less common sports markets
  • Offers live-streaming
  • Extensive payment options
  • Quick registration process

Cons:

  • High fees for some transactions
  • Poorly executed live chat feature

Frequently Asked Questions About Sports Betting in Tennessee

When will online sports betting be legal in Tennessee?

Is DraftKings sportsbook legal in Tennessee?

Is FanDuel legal in Tennessee?

Comparing Online Sportsbooks in Tennessee

Now that you have all the info on our top five Tennessee betting sites, you may still find picking the right one for your needs challenging. So, to help you out, we created the table below that allows you to compare the primary features of each side-by-side.

Sportsbook Sign-Up Bonus Bonus Code Sports to bet on Live Betting Live Streaming
DraftKings 20% up to $1,000 N/A 20+
BetMGM Risk-Free Bet up to $1,000 N/A 20+
PointsBet $500 in Free Bets N/A 20+
BetRivers 100% up to $500 Free Bets N/A 16+
FanDuel FanDuel No Sweat First Bet up to $1,000 N/A 15+

For more offers and bonuses you can have a look at our guide of the best sportsbook promo codes available in the US.

Is Sports Betting Legal in Tennessee?

Sports betting in Tennessee became legal in 2019 when Rep. Rick Staples introduced House Bill 1. Following this, the House voted on the bill and passed it with a vote of 58-37. Further, the Senate passed the legislation with a vote of 20-12. However, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee wasn’t too keen on introducing sports betting in the form of retail sportsbooks but didn’t want to stand in the way of the bill. So, while he didn’t sign the Sports Wagering Act into law, it passed nonetheless, with the caveat that Tennessee sports betting remains online only.

Further, The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation Sports Wagering Advisory Council manages sports betting, licensing, and regulations in the state.

So, if you want to try one of the best Tennessee online sports betting sites, try one of the options on our list.

Who can Legally Bet on Sports in Tennessee?

Generally, most states that offer legal sports betting set their minimum gambling age at 18 years or older. However, Tennessee differs slightly by setting the bar higher. As a result, those wanting to sign up, make a deposit, claim rewards, and place wagers online in The Volunteer State must be 21 years or older. Further, bettors must be well within state lines as TN sports betting sites use geofencing.

How to Sign Up & Bet on Sports Online in Tennessee

Generally, sites offering sports betting in TN are straightforward to use. However, new players may need assistance registering and getting started. But by following the quick steps below, TN bettors can easily navigate the sign-up process, fund their accounts, and start wagering.

Step One – Register with DraftKings

Begin by launching the DraftKings website. Then, click the green “Log In” button on the top right of the home page, before selecting the option to “Sign Up.” Next, complete the registration form that opens before hitting the “Next” button.

DraftKings Step 1

Step Two – Verify Your Account

Following registration, you’ll need to verify your DraftKings account. So, open your email inbox and the mail sent to you by DraftKings. Then, click the link inside to verify your new account before signing back into DraftKings with your new username and password.

Step Three – Fund Your Account

The next step is to deposit funds into your DraftKings account. So, click the green “Deposit” button on the top right of the home page (this will only come up when you are signed in). Then select your preferred payment method from the options provided and type in the amount you wish to deposit. Don’t forget to input your bonus promo code before clicking “deposit.” Finally, follow the prompts to complete your payment.

DraftKings Step 3

Step Four – Start Wagering

Once your funds reflect in your DraftKings account, it’s time to start the fun part – wagering. So head to DraftKing’s sportsbook and find the sports match you want to wager on. Then, type in your bet amount onto the bet slip on the right of the screen. Lastly, hit “Place Bet.”

DraftKings Step 4

Previous Sports Betting Bills in Tennessee

Tennessee sports betting became legal fairly soon after PASPA was repealed and didn’t face many objections from voters. As a result, the state has few prior sports betting bills, although there is one:

2019

  • SB 16 – The bill failed as Governor Lee Refused to sign it as he didn’t want to introduce retail sportsbooks into the state.
  • HB 1  – The same bill as SB 16 except with an amendment as to who would regulate sports betting in the state and that TN sports betting would remain online only. This bill then passed, legalizing sports betting in the Volunteer State.

Tax on Sports Betting Winnings in TN

While Tennessee does not charge its residents a state income tax, gambling establishments must pay over 20% of their monthly adjusted gross income in tax. Additionally, these online TN sports betting sites must pay a fee of $750,000 to obtain a license. Further, the state divides these revenues between educational and mental health programs and the general state fund.

Payment Methods Available at Tennessee Betting Sites

Tennessee online sports betting sites provide more than one way for bettors to deposit and withdraw funds from their sportsbook accounts. Besides making it more convenient for bettors, who can then choose their payment method, it allows more bettors to sign up in the first place. So, let’s look at the most common payment methods offered by regulated sportsbooks in TN:

Crypto Betting Options

Cryptocurrencies are decentralized digital currencies that run independently of third-party financial institutions and banks. As a result, they have no transaction fees and offer bettors an anonymous way to transact online. However, state-regulated Tennessee sports betting sites do not accept crypto payments, including options like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and Tether.

eWallet Betting Options

Bettors looking to fund their TN sports betting accounts using a payment method that offers excellent protection against fraud may want to consider using eWallets. Since these systems act as middlemen between a bettor’s bank account and their US online sportsbook account, they create a barrier against hackers. As a result, many Tennessee sports betting sites like DraftKings and Fanduel accept eWallets, including PayPal.

Traditional Payment Methods

Since traditional payment methods are the most popular choice among bettors, many sites offering sports betting in Tennessee provide several options, including credit cards, debit cards, bank wire transfers, money order, check, and online banking. So, visit any TN sportsbooks on our list if you want to transact using Visa or MasterCard.

Tennessee Sports Betting Sites Bonuses

Tennessee sports betting sites needed a tool to encourage bettors to sign up and reward existing members for their continued support. As a result, the promo or bonus was born, and now players can browse the various sportsbooks to see who offers the most generous rewards. Since sports betting bonuses come in many shapes and forms, we have highlighted the most popular options below.

Match Deposit Bonuses

When browsing the promotions a Tennessee sports betting site offers, players usually find a welcome reward (for new players) and several reload bonuses (for existing bettors). Additionally, they will discover that these usually come as a matched deposit, a perk that rewards bettors for funding their accounts by matching their deposits up to a specific amount. For example, a sportsbook offering a 100% match deposit of up to $2,000 will give a bettor depositing $1,900 an additional $1,900 to spend.

No Deposit Bonuses

The no deposit bonus works differently from the matched deposit as it doesn’t require bettors to deposit to earn a reward. Instead, Tennessee sports betting sites typically use this bonus to encourage skeptical players to sign up by giving them complimentary site credits that allow them to place several wagers risk-free. However, bettors often get into the swing of things and deposit their own funds once the credits run out, earning a new member for the sportsbook.

Free Bets

Another common bonus offered by Tennessee sports betting sites is free bets. In this case, the sportsbook gives a player free credits, coupons, or vouchers that allow them to place wagers risk-free. In other words, if they lose the bet, they don’t lose any of their deposited funds. Further, the sportsbook allows bettors to keep any earnings if they win the bet. For example, DraftKings may offer players an odds booster or offer a $50 free bet on the next upcoming NBA game.

DraftKings Bonuses

Popular Sports to Bet on in Tennessee

The Volunteer State has a deep sporting fan base, and many residents enjoy wagering on these sports. As a result, the best Tennessee sports betting sites cover diverse sports markets. Below, we look at the most popular sports offered and the kinds of wagers bettors can use for each.

Tennessee Sports Betting – The NFL and NCAAF

Football, on both a pro and collegiate level, is highly supported in Tennessee. In addition to a state NFL (National Football League) team, TN has several NCAAF (National Collegiate Athletics Association for Football) teams. Since Tennessee is one of the few states that permits wagering on college-level sports, players can back their home teams or other national pro teams by placing wagers like moneylines, teasers, spreads, and totals. So, for the best NFL sports betting in Tennessee, visit DraftKings or FanDuel.

Tennessee’s NFL Team:

  • Tennessee Titans – Originally a Houston team, the Titans relocated to Nashville in 1997

Below are some of the state’s top NCAAF teams:

  • Austin Peay State University – The team has sent six players to the NFL.
  • University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – The Alma Mater of former NFL receiver Terrell Owens.
  • East Tennessee State University The Buccaneers are five-time winners of the conference championships.
  • University of Memphis – The Tigers have participated in 15 bowl games.
  • Middle Tennessee State University – The Blue Raiders hold 12 conference titles.
  • University of Tennessee – The Volunteers are home to NFL player Peyton Manning.
  • Tennessee State University – The Tigers are home to Hall Of Famer Ed “Too Tall” Jones.
  • Tennessee Technological University – The Golden Eagles are ten-time conference championship winners.

NBA and NCAAB Wagering in TN

Basketball is another popular sport in TN. However, while the state only has one NBA team and several impressive college (NCAAB) teams. Since basketball remains a top sport in the state, many sportsbooks cover it, allowing bettors to place popular wagers like point spreads, and other options like moneylines, and totals. However, remember that TN prohibits prop betting on NCAA sports and athletes. If you’re looking for the best NBA betting sites in TN, we recommend visiting BetRivers and DraftKings.

TN’s NBA Team:

  • Memphis Grizzlies – Originally from Vancouver, the Grizzlies relocated to Memphis in 2001.

Tennessee’s Top NCAAB Division I Teams:

  • Austin Peay State University – The Governors have played seven NCAA Tournaments.
  • Belmont University – The Bruins participate in the Atlantic Sun Conference.
  • University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – The Mocs have appeared in the NCAA Tournament on 12 occasions.
  • East Tennessee State University – The Buccaneers last participated in March Madness in 2017.
  • University of Memphis – The Memphis Tigers are home to former NBA standouts Penny Hardaway and Derick Rose.
  • Middle Tennessee State University – The Blue Raiders have made nine tournament appearances.
  • University of Tennessee – The Volunteers are home to former NBA greats, Allan Houston, Bernard King, and Ernie Grunfeld.
  • Tennessee State University – The Tigers have only ever made two tournament appearances.
  • Tennessee Technological University – The Golden Eagles compete annually in the Ohio Valley Conference.

Sports Betting in Tennessee – Wagering on the MLB

Baseball is undoubtedly one of the most loved sports in the US, which makes offering the MLB (Major League Baseball) a must for any top Tennessee sports betting site. Although TN is not home to an MLB team of its own, neighboring states have several excellent teams to back. When wagering on baseball, bettors typically place runlines instead of spreads. However, options like props, totals, and moneylines are also available. If you want to wager a baseball bet, visit FanDuel or BetRivers for excellent odds.

NHL Wagering at Sports Betting TN Sites

While most states up north have a greater penchant for ice hockey, it has a large following in the South East too. As a result, Tennessee sports betting sites make it simple for bettors to place spreads, totals, moneylines, and props on NHL games and tournaments like the Stanley Cup. Tennessee is home to one NHL team, the Nashville Predators. So, to back this team, visit DraftKings or BetMGM.

Golf in Tennessee

Several golfing greens in Tennessee have a leg of the PGA played on them. Additionally, the state is home to several local golfing tournaments and offers over 300 golf courses, making golf a popular sport in the state. As a result, many regulated sportsbooks like DraftKings offer betting on golf.

Horse Racing at TN Sports Betting Sites

Unfortunately, Tennessee does not have any horse racing tracks in state, nor are there any off-track betting sites. However, since Tennessee permits horse racing, bettors can place legal wagers like exactas, trifectas, places, wins, and parlays at state-regulated sites like BetRivers and DraftKings.

DFS in TN

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is legal in Tennessee. As a result, sportsbooks offering DFS wagering, like DraftKings and Fanduel, can legally provide these services to bettors in the state.

Live Betting with Tennessee Sports Betting Sites

Besides offering bettors typical pre-game wagers, the best Tennessee sports betting sites (like those on our list) give bettors a chance to place wagers on a sports match after the game has begun. Known as live or in-play betting, this wagering offers far more excitement, unique odds, and action-packed betting.

Additionally, many sportsbooks that provide live betting allow bettors to watch the game in real-time by live streaming it on the website or app. So, for the best live betting site in TN, visit BetMGM.

Bets that are Illegal in Tennessee

The Volunteer State is more progressive than most, offering all forms of sports wagering and even betting on NCAA teams. However, there are a few bets that Tennesee sports betting does not entertain.

Firstly, bettors may not place prop bets on NCAA teams, events, or athletes.

Further, bettors may not wager on politics, politicians, political events, or their outcomes. Additionally, TN bettors cannot wager on entertainment and awards shows like the Oscars, Grammys, or Emmys.

How Tennessee Sports Betting Compares to its Neighboring States

While Tennessee sports betting is restricted to online wagering only, bettors looking to head to Kentucky will have even worse luck since the state prohibits sports betting.

However, North Carolina sportsbooks are available, but for in-person wagering only. Another place avid bettors can visit and legally place wagers is Virginia sportsbooks.

But, a trip to any of Tennessee’s other neighboring states will leave you out of luck since Missouri sports betting sites, Alabama sportsbooks, and Georgia sports betting is illegal as none of these states have authorized sports wagering.

Casinos with Sports Betting in Tennessee

Players looking for retail Tennessee sports betting establishments are out of luck. Since the state does not have any land-based casinos and restricts sports betting to online only, there are no in-person sportsbooks or casinos for bettors to visit.

The Best Sports Betting Site for Tennessee

Although Tennessee sports betting is limited to online wagering, the Volunteer State is home to several top-quality state-regulated sportsbooks. We hope our top-five list has narrowed things down and helped you to find your ideal TN sports betting site.

However, if you’re still unsure, we recommend trying the best Tennessee sports betting site, DraftKings. In addition to offering over 20 sports markets to wager on, the sportsbook offers excellent odds, several ways to bet, an exciting in-play wagering suite, and tons of generous promos. So, don’t miss a beat. Instead, sign up with DraftKings and start wagering on your favorite sports.

khadijabilal

Khadija is an accomplished author with over a decade of experience under her belt. Having developed a versatile writing style that allows her to tackle a wide range of topics, Khadija has several publications to her name. Khadija's expertise includes in-depth guides and how-to articles.