Thrillzz, KicKr, and Rebet Exit Tennessee’s Social Sports Betting Scene
Tennessee has issued multiple cease-and-desist orders, pushing Thrillzz, KicKr, and Rebet out of the social betting industry.
Thrillzz, KicKr, and Rebet are officially out of Tennessee’s social sports betting scene after the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council (TSWC) took action and branded these websites as “illegal sports gaming entities”. Although authorities have not issued a specific closure order, TSWC has issued multiple cease-and-desist letters to these operators for their operating social betting services without proper licensing and authorization.
Tennessee is the biggest “online-only” sports betting market in the country, with $5.6 billion wagered last year on licensed betting platforms. The council’s recent moves to issue cease-and-desist letters reflect the state’s growing commitment to protect locals through a safe and regulated sports wagering environment.
Tennessee Intensifies Its Crackdown on “Illegal Gaming Entities”
The number of social sports betting operators exiting Tennessee continues to increase as the Sports Wagering Council tightens its gaming regulations. Thrillz, KicKr, and Rebet are three of the latest sites to fold under intense regulatory pressure. All three have stopped accepting new players and offering betting services after receiving their cease-and-desist letters. Another operator, BetWhale, is no longer operating and is also facing a $50,000 fine.
In a statement, the TSWC has reiterated its commitment to the promotion of a regulated and fair sports betting landscape. Executive Director Mary Beth Thomas reminded and encouraged players to only use and play at legal and licensed sportsbooks to protect funds and data.
She added that “access to a website or an app does not mean the sportsbook has been licensed to operate”. Ms. Thomas reminded its players to practice due diligence and always check if the operator is licensed.
Tennessee Retains Its Tough Stance Against Illegal Betting Operations
These exits signal a shrinking tolerance in the state for loophole models and point toward stricter implementation and interpretation of gambling laws. Tennessee remains one of the country’s biggest markets for online social sports betting, but with some of the most stringent regulations. The state’s strict policies have led some sweepstakes casino operators to exit proactively to avoid potential fines and legal problems.
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