Vegas Sports Information Network (VSiN) has officially split from DraftKings, becoming a standalone media entity once again. After being acquired by DraftKings for $70 million three years ago, VSiN’s founding partners are now back in control of the Las Vegas-based broadcasting network. VSiN operates from its primary studio inside the Circa Casino Resort and aims to produce more shows from the resort’s outdoor pool deck. The network provides sports gamblers with over 18 hours of news, analysis, and insights daily across various platforms like YouTube TV and traditional radio stations.
The split from DraftKings allows VSiN to function as a traditional media company once more, using odds and betting information from multiple sports betting providers. Founder and CEO Brian Musburger expressed gratitude for the partnership with DraftKings, acknowledging the growth in subscription base, but emphasized the importance of informing the sports betting community about various options in the market. VSiN recently hired Steve Cohen, a long-time media industry executive, as the network’s executive vice president of talent and programming.
In other news, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has established the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) to regulate and license operators in the country’s gaming industry. Former MGM Resorts CEO Jim Murren serves as the chairman of the board, alongside gaming executive Mark Lipparelli and other members with Nevada roots. The GCGRA recently awarded a license to operate the UAE’s first authorized lottery, signaling the country’s commitment to developing a secure and enriched gaming environment.
On the gaming revenue front, Nevada saw a record-breaking fiscal year in 2024, with total statewide revenue nearing $15.8 billion. The Strip contributed almost $9.1 billion to the total, driven by high-end baccarat revenue. The state is on track for a successful calendar year in 2025, with all major gaming revenue reporting markets ahead of 2023 totals. Washoe County and Reno, which faced revenue declines, are also showing positive growth compared to the previous year.
In Northern Nevada, Century Casinos appointed Eric Rose as the general manager of the Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks. The property, acquired by Century last year, experienced lower-than-expected revenue in the first half of 2024. Rose, with over 32 years of gaming experience, aims to boost operations at the Nugget amidst a highly competitive market in the Reno-Sparks area. The property underwent right-sizing and cost-cutting initiatives to improve performance under Rose’s leadership.
