William Hill has made its long awaited first move in the state of Michigan, seven months after signing a deal to become the exclusive provider of online sports betting and casino gaming with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.
Under the terms of the partnership the pair have opened their first sportsbooks in the Wolverine State at Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel, along with a satellite location at Leelanau Sands Casino.
“We are excited to align with William Hill, the leading sports betting company in the US. They are the best in the business, and that’s always what we strive to give our guests. We have an excellent, trained staff to assist customers with getting their bets down,” stated Michael Schrader, CEO of Grand Traverse Resort and Casinos.
“We want to provide the best destination for sports betting in the state, and with William Hill as our partner, that’s a bet we’re happy to take. When Michigan regulations are permitted, we will be able to offer the best in online gaming and betting as well. This is truly a win-win for Northern Michigan.”
The grand opening ceremony included a ribbon-cutting with Ernest Stevens Jr, chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association, followed by a ceremonial first bet placed by NBA All-Star Rick Mahorn.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the press conference to celebrate the Grand Opening of @onyxsportsbook. pic.twitter.com/J3NlaVcyU3
— Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel (@TCCasino) September 23, 2020
The Onyx sportsbook by William Hill at Turtle Creek Casino features two ticket windows and two kiosks, adjacent to the table games and slot machines on the casino floor.
Furthermore, the entity also boasts 20 high-definition televisions, complimentary games, food and beverages, and an outdoor patio.
The satellite location at Leelanau Sands Casino includes two kiosks for sports betting, with customers at both locations to be serviced according to CDC-recommended guidelines.
“Today’s grand opening at Turtle Creek Casino officially marks the 13th state where William Hill now offers sports betting,” added Dan Shapiro, vice president of strategy and business development for William Hill.
“This is just the beginning of our partnership with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, with plans to launch mobile sports betting and iCasino gaming throughout Michigan as soon as permitted.
“This is an exciting way to start the NFL season, and we know the Onyx Sports Book by William Hill will be the new game-day location for sports fans in Northern Michigan.”