Texas, the second-largest state in the United States, is a place where sports are a significant part of the culture. Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball, or even soccer, Texans love their sports, and many are eager to place bets on their favorite teams. However, as of 2025, Texas has not legalized sports betting, creating a unique landscape for residents who wish to place wagers on games. While neighboring states like Louisiana and Arkansas have legalized sports betting, Texans are left with few options unless they travel out of state or choose to use offshore sportsbooks. This article explores the current status of sports betting in Texas, the legal landscape, popular sports betting sites for Texans, and the future of sports betting in the state.
The Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in Texas
Before diving into the platforms available to Texans, it’s essential to understand the legal status of sports betting in the state. While the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2018 decision in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), which previously banned sports betting outside of Nevada, Texas has yet to legalize it.
In the aftermath of the Murphy ruling, each state had the opportunity to regulate Sports Betting Sites Texas within its borders. While states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan quickly moved to legalize and regulate sports betting, Texas lawmakers have been slow to act. The primary reasons for this hesitation are political factors, including concerns about gambling’s potential social impact, opposition from certain conservative factions, and the desire to maintain a “hands-off” approach to state regulation.
Over the years, several bills have been introduced in the Texas Legislature to legalize sports betting, but none have passed. Despite this, there is a growing movement in favor of legalizing sports betting, with advocates pointing to the potential for tax revenue and job creation. Sports franchises in Texas, including the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Rockets, and Texas Rangers, have also lobbied for the legalization of sports betting, seeing it as a way to enhance fan engagement and increase revenue streams.
Until Texas passes a law legalizing sports betting, residents are left with a few options. They can travel to neighboring states with legal sports betting, or they can use offshore sportsbooks, which are based outside the United States but still accessible to Texans.
Offshore Sports Betting Sites for Texans
Since sports betting is illegal in Texas, many residents turn to offshore sports betting sites to place their wagers. These platforms operate outside the jurisdiction of U.S. law, and although they may not be regulated by U.S. authorities, they are still legal to use for residents of states where sports betting is not yet allowed. The appeal of these platforms lies in the wide range of betting options, ease of use, and accessibility.
Here are some of the most popular offshore sports betting sites for Texans:
1. Bovada
Bovada is one of the largest and most trusted offshore sportsbooks in the world. It offers a wide variety of sports to bet on, including NFL, NBA, MLB, college football, and even niche markets like esports and politics. Bovada is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to place bets while offering advanced features for experienced bettors.
For Texans, Bovada is a popular choice due to its competitive odds, fast payout system, and numerous promotions, including welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for loyal users. The site accepts multiple payment methods, including credit cards, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies, providing flexibility for users to fund their accounts and withdraw winnings.
2. BetOnline
BetOnline is another offshore sportsbook that caters to U.S. residents, including those in Texas. It is known for offering an extensive range of betting markets, including traditional sports like football, basketball, and baseball, as well as more niche sports like golf, boxing, and motorsports.
BetOnline is highly regarded for its customer service, secure payment options, and fast withdrawal times. It also offers live betting, allowing users to place bets during a game in real-time. The platform frequently offers bonuses and promotions for new and existing users, adding value for those looking to maximize their betting experience.
3. MyBookie
MyBookie is a popular offshore sportsbook that has a strong reputation for reliability and customer service. The platform offers a variety of sports, including football, basketball, and baseball, as well as live betting options and competitive odds. MyBookie also features a wide range of deposit and withdrawal options, including Bitcoin, which is particularly appealing to bettors who prefer cryptocurrency.
What sets MyBookie apart from other offshore sportsbooks is its focus on the U.S. market. The platform has tailored its offerings to meet the needs of American bettors, with promotions that cater specifically to the Texas market, as well as a responsive mobile platform for users who prefer to place bets on the go.
4. SportsBetting.ag
SportsBetting.ag is another top offshore sportsbook that allows Texans to place wagers on a wide range of sports, including major leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB. The platform is known for offering competitive odds and a robust live betting section, allowing users to place bets while games are in progress.
SportsBetting.ag also has a reputation for offering quick and secure withdrawals, which is a critical factor for any online sportsbook. Additionally, it provides various promotions and bonuses, making it an attractive choice for bettors in Texas looking to get the most out of their wagers.
Betting Options and Features on Offshore Platforms
Offshore sportsbooks offer a wide variety of betting options, making them highly attractive to Texans who want to place wagers on their favorite teams. Here are some of the key features and betting options that bettors can enjoy on these platforms:
1. Sports Variety
Offshore sportsbooks offer an extensive range of sports to bet on. Popular options include football, basketball, baseball, and hockey, but bettors can also wager on niche sports such as tennis, golf, boxing, soccer, esports, and more. With so many sports to choose from, Texans can place bets on virtually any event or competition worldwide.
2. Live Betting
Many offshore sportsbooks, including Bovada, BetOnline, and MyBookie, offer live betting, allowing bettors to place wagers while games are in progress. Live betting provides a dynamic and exciting way to engage with the game, as odds change in real-time based on the unfolding action.
3. Odds and Lines
Offshore sportsbooks tend to offer competitive odds, sometimes better than those found at U.S.-based sportsbooks. This makes them an appealing option for bettors who want to maximize their potential winnings. Lines for various events are typically released well in advance, and many sportsbooks offer early betting lines for major sporting events.
4. Bonuses and Promotions
To attract and retain customers, offshore sportsbooks frequently offer promotions such as welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, and free bet offers. These bonuses can significantly enhance the betting experience for Texans, allowing them to place additional wagers without risking their own funds.
Sports Betting in Neighboring States
While Texas does not have legal sports betting, neighboring states like Louisiana and Arkansas have passed laws that allow residents to place legal bets. Texans who are looking for a more traditional sports betting experience can travel to these states and use the regulated sportsbooks there.
Louisiana
In November 2020, Louisiana voters approved sports betting, and by 2021, the state had launched both in-person and online sports betting. With platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM operating legally in Louisiana, Texans who live near the border can easily travel to Louisiana to place bets.
Arkansas
Arkansas also offers legal sports betting at licensed casinos. While online betting options are still limited, Arkansas provides a legal avenue for Texans who want to place bets in person. The state’s sportsbooks allow for wagers on NFL, college sports, and other major leagues.
The Future of Sports Betting in Texas
As of now, sports betting remains illegal in Texas, but there is growing support for its legalization. The Texas sports industry, including professional teams and sports fans, is increasingly vocal about the potential economic benefits of legal sports betting. Lawmakers may eventually pass legislation that will allow sports betting to become a regulated industry in Texas.
The key to legalization will likely depend on the political climate in Texas, as well as the outcome of future elections. If sports betting is legalized in the state, it could open the door for a significant revenue stream and a boost to the state’s economy.
Conclusion
Sports betting in Texas is currently illegal, but that hasn’t stopped many Texans from seeking out offshore sportsbooks or traveling to neighboring states to place their bets. Offshore platforms like Bovada, BetOnline, and MyBookie provide a way for residents to enjoy sports betting, even if it’s not officially legalized in Texas. As the landscape continues to evolve, Texans may soon have a clearer path to legal sports betting, but until then, offshore sportsbooks remain a viable option for sports fans in the Lone Star State.