PENN Entertainment, Inc. (“PENN” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: PENN) has announced a strategic partnership through its subsidiary PENN Sports Interactive, LLC, with Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE). This long-term agreement secures market access for PENN’s online sportsbook, ESPN BET, in Washington, D.C. Additionally, ESPN BET becomes an official sports betting partner of Monumental Sports & Entertainment and its renowned teams—the Washington Capitals (NHL), Washington Wizards (NBA), and Washington Mystics (WNBA).
Under this multi-channel partnership, subject to regulatory approvals, PENN and MSE will collaborate closely to elevate the fan experience through integrated marketing initiatives. Key components of the collaboration include:
- In-Arena and Media Integration: ESPN BET will feature prominently in Capitals and Wizards game broadcasts on Monumental Sports Network (MNMT), leveraging custom broadcast integrations and IP rights for MSE and its teams.
- Marketing and Advertising: The partnership encompasses in-arena and TV-visible signage, out-of-home advertising, and a commercial schedule across Monumental Sports Network to maximize brand visibility.
- Unique Hospitality and Experiences: Fans will benefit from exclusive hospitality offerings and experiences, further enriching their engagement with ESPN BET and Monumental Sports events.
Both MSE and PENN are dedicated supporters of responsible gaming practices, aligning with the American Gaming Association’s Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly.™ campaign. MSE will deploy various assets and resources to educate fans on responsible gaming through media coverage, social media initiatives across MSE channels, and in-arena digital displays and commercials.
PENN reinforces its commitment to player safety through ESPN BET’s comprehensive Responsible Gaming tools and resources. These include features such as limits on time, deposits, and wagering amounts, aimed at ensuring a safe and enjoyable gaming environment for all users.
“We are thrilled to join forces with PENN Entertainment and align with ESPN BET, a leading brand across the sports and entertainment landscape,” said Jim Van Stone, President of Business Operations and Chief Commercial Officer at MSE. “This partnership furthers our collective commitment to offering fans unique, cutting-edge experiences that reflect the future of sports entertainment, with ESPN BET’s innovative platform adding a new layer of engagement for our fans, both inside and outside the arena.”
“We are proud to partner with Monumental Sports and its teams to unite the energy of D.C. sports with our world-class platform,” said Aaron LaBerge, Chief Technology Officer, PENN Entertainment. “This deal expands our footprint in the region, further connecting ESPN BET with one of America’s most passionate sports communities. Our presence alongside the Capitals, Wizards and Mystics positions ESPN BET at the center of the action where sports, technology, and fan experience converge.”
