Tennessee has quickly become one of the most exciting places in the U.S. for sports betting. Since the state legalized online sports betting in 2020, Tennessee has seen rapid growth in both the number of bettors and the range of sports available to bet on. As we move into 2025, Tennessee sports betting continues to evolve, offering more opportunities for sports fans to place bets on their favorite teams and athletes.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Tennessee sports betting in 2025, from the legal framework and available platforms to the latest trends and what the future holds for this booming industry.
The Legal Landscape of Tennessee Sports Betting
Tennessee made headlines when it became the first state in the U.S. to allow online-only sports betting, bypassing the traditional brick-and-mortar casino model. This means that bettors can place wagers on their favorite sports using mobile apps and websites, with no need to visit a physical sportsbook. The law, known as the Tennessee Sports Gaming Act, was passed in 2019, and the first legal bets were placed in November 2020.
In 2025, Tennessee sports betting remains legal, with strict regulations in place to ensure fair play and consumer protection. The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation (TELC) oversees all legal sports betting activity in the state. The TELC regulates the operators, ensuring that they meet all requirements, including providing responsible gaming tools and paying taxes that contribute to state education funding.
The legal sports betting market in Tennessee is only open to licensed online platforms, and bettors must be at least 21 years old to participate. Betting on college sports, both in-state and out-of-state teams, is allowed, which is a unique feature compared to some other states.
Popular Sports to Bet On in Tennessee
As of 2025, Tennessee sports betting enthusiasts can place wagers on a wide variety of sports. While some sports remain consistently popular, others have seen growth in recent years. Here’s a look at some of the top sports that Tennesseans bet on:
- NFL Football – Football is undoubtedly the most popular sport in Tennessee. With the state’s loyal fan base for the Tennessee Titans, betting on NFL games is a major driver of sports betting activity. The Super Bowl and the NFL playoffs also see a surge in betting activity each year.
- College Football – College football betting is huge in Tennessee, especially with the University of Tennessee Volunteers playing a key role in the state’s sports culture. Betting on college games is a major aspect of Tennessee sports betting, and fans enjoy wagering on in-state games as well as national matchups.
- NBA Basketball – With Tennessee being home to the Memphis Grizzlies, NBA betting is increasingly popular. Whether betting on regular-season games, playoff matchups, or the NBA Finals, basketball is a favorite for Tennessee sports bettors.
- NCAA Basketball – March Madness, the NCAA basketball tournament, is another major event for sports betting in Tennessee. Fans across the state get involved in the excitement, placing bets on their favorite teams or predicting outcomes during the tournament.
- Major League Baseball (MLB) – Baseball betting also enjoys a solid following, with bettors wagering on both regular-season games and post-season events.
- NHL Hockey – While not as popular as football or basketball, hockey betting has steadily grown in Tennessee. Betting on the NHL and major international tournaments has attracted more fans, especially those interested in niche markets.
- Soccer – International and domestic soccer leagues, including the English Premier League, La Liga, and MLS, have seen an increase in popularity as more Tennesseans turn to online platforms for soccer betting.
- Other Sports – Tennis, golf, boxing, and even esports have gained traction in the Tennessee sports betting market. Operators often provide a wide range of options for bettors looking for alternative sports to wager on.
Sports Betting Platforms in Tennessee
In 2025, Tennessee sports bettors have access to several online sports betting platforms. These platforms provide a wide array of betting options, including live betting, parlays, futures, and more. Popular platforms operating in Tennessee include:
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- BetMGM
- Caesars Sportsbook
- PointsBet
Each of these sportsbooks offers a user-friendly interface, competitive odds, and a variety of promotions to entice new users. The popularity of these platforms has resulted in increased competition, which benefits bettors by offering better odds, bonuses, and betting options.
In addition to sports betting, many of these platforms also provide other forms of online gambling, such as casino games, allowing Tennesseans a one-stop shop for all their gaming needs.
Taxes and Revenue from Tennessee Sports Betting
One of the significant benefits of Tennessee sports betting is the revenue it generates for the state. In Tennessee, operators are required to pay a 20% tax rate on their profits, one of the highest tax rates for sports betting in the U.S. The funds generated from this tax are directed toward education, which is a key reason the state chose to legalize sports betting in the first place.
As of 2025, Tennessee sports betting continues to bring in millions of dollars in tax revenue each year, contributing to the state’s education fund. This financial benefit helps support Tennessee’s schools and further promotes the state’s overall economy.
The Future of Sports Betting in Tennessee
Looking ahead, Tennessee sports betting is expected to continue its growth and development. There are ongoing discussions about expanding sports betting to include more types of wagers or introducing additional regulations to improve consumer protection. One potential area for growth is the inclusion of in-person sportsbooks, though the online-only model has proven successful for the state.
There is also speculation that as sports betting continues to mature, more partnerships with local sports teams and venues will emerge, further driving the growth of the industry.
Conclusion
Tennessee sports betting has come a long way since its legalization in 2020. In 2025, it is firmly established as a popular and lucrative industry for both bettors and the state alike. With numerous online sportsbooks, a variety of sports to bet on, and a strong regulatory framework, Tennessee continues to be an attractive market for sports enthusiasts and bettors across the U.S.
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer to the world of sports gambling, Tennessee offers a vibrant, accessible, and exciting sports betting experience. As the industry evolves, you can expect more opportunities to engage with your favorite sports while supporting the state’s educational initiatives at the same time.