Copyright fox2now
ST. LOUIS - The sidewalks around Busch Stadium were quiet Wednesday night as another fall classic continued without a red October in St. Louis. Some Missouri sports fans watched Game 5 of the 2025 World Series at Ballpark Village while others eagerly await Dec. 1, the first day of legal sports betting in Missouri. “As soon as it goes live, I’ll be placing a bet,” said Tadrian Ward, a Missouri resident. Sheldon Ofodile, another Missouri resident, said he likely won’t place many bets but welcomes the legalization in Missouri. “People are going to find a way to gamble,” he said. “So, I think legalizing it gives us an opportunity to gain some income for the state.” Missouri’s new law imposes a 10% tax on profits. The bulk of the revenue is slated for education. It remains to be seen how much revenue legalization will generate. Supporters of the legalization predict at least $100 million from gaming tax revenues for Missouri schools in the first five years. Ryan Butler, senior news analyst with Covers.com, a sports betting information hub, said Missouri is currently losing out to offshore accounts and border states with legalized sports wagering. He predicts the launch of legalized sports betting in Missouri will be a smooth transition. “For most of those sports betting apps, the big brands that most people are familiar with, you’ll be able to have your account ready to go as soon as the launch goes,” Butler said. “They are so good at this. It’s basically, essentially, almost literally, flipping a switch.” LaRon Haymore, a Missouri resident, said the new law will not lure him into placing any bets. “I don’t gamble,” Haymore said. “I work too hard to gamble my money.” Haymore added he’s not opposed to Missouri’s new law but hopes education will be the beneficiary. “I just hope the proceeds go to what they promise,” he said.
