As of August 2023, Barstool Sportsbook is no more. Parent company PENN Entertainment has sold the Barstool brand and replaced the platform with a new partnership with ESPN, launching ESPN Bet in November 2023.
In this ESPN Bet sportsbook review, we’ll discuss how New Jersey bettors can register with the new bookmaker, highlight some of the key features, and lay out the steps to get started with the bookie.
What is ESPN Bet?
Following PENN Entertainment’s August 2023 sale of Barstool back to founder Dave Portnoy, the betting giant formed a 10-year, $2 billion partnership with ESPN to act as the front-facing brand of the sports gambling platform, which will now be known as ESPN Bet.
Barstool Sportsbook was previously licensed and operating in New Jersey, so PENN did not need to reapply for licensure to relaunch the newly-branded platform. This allowed ESPN Bet to launch as soon as the site was ready for rollout.
The move did not come without scrutiny, as some feared ESPN’s unparalleled access to teams, media, and sports industry insiders could lead to improper betting line management.
However, it is important to remember ESPN is only acting as the brand skin and promoting the sportsbook on its platform. PENN still manages all of the bookmaking operations.
Is ESPN Bet sportsbook legal in NJ?
Yes, ESPN Bet sportsbook is legal in NJ. The new bookie launched in November 2023, just in time for Thanksgiving Day NBA and NFL betting in New Jersey which should make for a highly profitable launch.
You can now sign up at ESPN Bet in New Jersey, with the bonus arriving within 72 hours of placing your first bet on the site. The registration process is a breeze, taking most users around 10 minutes to complete. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Best features of ESPN Bet Sportsbook New Jersey
ESPN Bet Sportsbook in New Jersey carried over many of the same traits from the Barstool platform, but we've already seen some nice new touches, especially in the banking methods. Here are some of the best features on the site.
The ESPN Bet NJ promo will get to your account within 72 hours of making your first bet on the site. This could result in receiving the bonus bets before your first wager settles.
As a reminder, bonus bets will expire seven days after they are awarded if you do not use them.
How to fix problems if the ESPN Bet New Jersey bonus is not working
If the ESPN Bet New Jersey sports betting bonus is not working, there are a few ways you can try to fix the problem. The first and easiest option is to log out of your account, and then log in again. This typically solves the issue right away as it forces a refresh of your account.
Should that step fail to resolve the problem, closing out of the betting app or the browser window, or even a restart of your device, may also clear things up and get the bonus to show in your bankroll. If all of the above fails, you’ll need to get in touch with ESPN Bet customer support (instructions on that are below).
Best sports leagues you will be able to bet on using ESPN Bet New Jersey
ESPN Bet has an expansive 17 sports markets available on the site, and you’ll also find multiple leagues within many of those sports. Complimenting the sports side are markets for esports and entertainment, adding extra versatility for NJ bettors.
Here are some of the best sports leagues you will be able to bet on using ESPN Bet New Jersey:
Different kinds of bonuses on ESPN Bet Sportsbook
Any sportsbook worth its salt will be frequent and generous in its promotional offerings, and ESPN Bet is showing a strong commitment to bonuses early on. Here are some of the popular different kinds of bonuses you should be able to find on ESPN Bet sportsbook, some of which are already live and ready for claiming.
The ESPN Bet betting app in New Jersey
Sports betting apps in New Jersey are the preferred way to play for many players. The vast majority of sports wagers are placed online, and with mobile apps accounting for the biggest chunk of digital bets, having a quality app is paramount for ESPN Bet’s success.
Fortunately for PENN and ESPN Bet, the app's rollout already seems like a major success, which is quite a surprise given the lack of buzz around the launch. iOS reviewers have given ESPN Bet a 4.9/5 rating in the App Store while Android users reflect a similar score at 4.8/5.
Our testing so far has already shown reliable geolocation, so playing anywhere in New Jersey should be convenient and capable. We also believe users will find the app aesthetically pleasing and very fluid to navigate. While the app has a long way to go to catch up to FanDuel's vice-grip on the state's market, ESPN Bet looks promising out of the gate
How to download the ESPN Bet app on iOS
The ESPN Bet app is available in the App Store, and free to download. Here’s how you’ll be able to get started.
Once the download is complete, you’ll be able to create a new ESPN Bet account or log in with your existing credentials.
How to download the ESPN Bet app on Android
Now that the ESPN Bet app has launched for Android users, you’ll want to get signed up right away to get the best possible welcome bonus. Here’s how you can get started.
Once the installation finishes, you can log in and make a deposit to your account or register for the first time if you haven’t already done so.
ESPN Bet Sportsbook New Jersey payment options
ESPN Bet kept many of its existing banking methods from the Barstool platform on its new version but also made it a point to pursue e-wallet expansion. Here are some of the top payment options at ESPN Bet Sportsbook New Jersey.
Deposit
Can I bet on New Jersey college sports with ESPN Bet?
No, you cannot bet on New Jersey college sports with ESPN Bet. Betting on in-state college teams is prohibited under New Jersey state law, and you also won’t be able to bet on any collegiate event held in the state, even if the participants aren’t NJ-based.
Customer support at ESPN Bet Sportsbook NJ
ESPN Bet Sportsbook's customer support for NJ players should quickly prove to be among the best in the state. Users can parse through multiple FAQ pages addressing promotional terms and conditions, responsible gambling, and account information.
A 24/7 support chat hasn't yet been implemented, but both email and phone support are live and available to cover any more complicated issues that may arise.