76ers, Wizards play first-ever game at venue with legal sportsbook

76ers, Wizards play first-ever game at venue with legal sportsbook

Article brief provided by ESPN
  • David Purdum, ESPN
June 1, 2021 11:59 AM
  • David Purdum, ESPN

The Washington Wizards hosted the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday at Capital One Arena in the first game at a U.S. venue where a legal bookmaker was accepting bets.

Story continues below

It was a monumental moment for American sports that warranted an appearance from NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who, along with 76ers owner Josh Harris, toured the new two-level William Hill sportsbook at Capital One Arena before the game tipped off.

Fans and bettors arrived at the arena sportsbook early in the afternoon to watch and bet on the Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea. At halftime of the Sixers-Wizards game, ticket holders left their seats and walked into the sportsbook to place their bets.