States are looking to increase their take from the $16 billion online sports gambling industry as it expands across the country with big partnerships. DraftKings, FanDuel and other betting apps are facing a bigger tax hit in Illinois following changes to tax policy this year. ESPN owner Walt Disney Co. has also gotten involved in the action with ESPN Bet, which has a partnership with the National Hockey League.
Sports betting is now legal in 38 states. The most popular sports see the most bets, but the data shows some surprises.
Betting on the biggest players in online sports betting is a way to limit the risk from challenges such as scandals and higher state taxes.