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Are Political Betting Sites Legal? Latest 2025 Updates

By
Lucia Schettino
-
Political Betting Sites

Betting on sports is legal in most US states, but when it comes to betting on politics, it’s a different story. Political betting sites get a ton of traffic during big election years, but very few are legal for US players.

That’s because most state and federal laws treat political wagers differently from sports or casino bets.

While some prediction markets exist in a legal gray area, betting on political outcomes, like picking the next president, is still off-limits in the eyes of US regulators.

Here’s everything you need to know about political betting in the US in 2025.

Is Online Political Betting Legal in the US?

Despite growing interest, political betting websites remain largely illegal in the United States.

While sports betting and online casinos are now widely available in many states, regulators treat political betting as a separate category, and they have been hesitant to legalize betting on political events.

The main reason? Many stakeholders believe that legalizing politics betting sites may undermine the public trust in the elections.

Unlike sports or casino gaming, political outcomes come with real-world consequences for voters, policy decisions, and the balance of power, which makes regulators especially cautious.

As of 2025, no state has approved licensed operators to offer political betting markets. However, there are a few exceptions.

Some federally regulated platforms, like those overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), have been allowed to offer limited election-related contracts under strict conditions. However, these platforms operate more like prediction exchanges, not traditional sportsbooks, and often face legal challenges.

So while the headlines may suggest otherwise, the reality is that political betting is still off-limits for the general public through any state-licensed betting site.

Category Status
State-licensed sportsbooks Illegal
CFTC-regulated exchanges Legal
Academic prediction markets Limited access
Fantasy-style political games Varies by state

The History of Political Betting Laws in the US

Political betting in the US has been shaped by federal financial laws and by the actions of one specific agency: the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Political bets aren’t treated as gambling in this regard, but more like financial contracts, similar to stock options or futures.

Here are the key events that have shaped the industry so far.

2018: PASPA Repeal — But Not for Politics

The US Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), allowing states to legalize sports betting. Many people thought this might open the door for political betting, too, but it didn’t.

Political betting stayed under federal oversight, and the CFTC kept rejecting any attempts to create legal political betting markets.

2022–2023: CFTC Shuts Down PredictIt

PredictIt is a unique site that lets users buy and sell shares in political outcomes, like who would win an election. It was the only site that allowed US users to participate in political betting because it had special permission from the CFTC. In 2022, the CFTC suddenly revoked that permission, saying the platform no longer met its academic exemption.

PredictIt challenged this decision in court, and a federal appeals court allowed it to continue operating while the case is ongoing.

2024: Kalshi Lawsuit and Court Ruling

Kalshi is a US-based financial exchange that aims to offer regulated markets on political outcomes. The CFTC initially rejected the proposal, leading to a lawsuit.

In late 2024, a federal court ruled in Kalshi’s favor, allowing it to launch these political event markets, but only as financial products, not traditional bets.

At first, the CFTC appealed the ruling, but soon dropped the appeal in May 2025. This has cemented Kalshi’s legal status, making it the first federally approved platform for political event markets in the US.

Market Potential for Political Betting in the US

While political betting is still banned in every US state under gambling law, recent developments suggest a high ceiling if the market is fully opened.

During the 2024 election cycle, Kalshi reported over $700 million in political contracts traded, roughly $430 million tied directly to the presidential race. Meanwhile, Polymarket, which blocks US users but is widely used abroad, saw over $2 billion wagered on election outcomes.

These numbers show the demand is massive even under limitations. With the CFTC dropping its appeal in May 2025, Kalshi can now legally offer political markets as financial products. That sets a legal precedent that could lead to broader adoption.

While no state has stepped up to legalize political betting through sportsbooks yet, with these kinds of numbers, it’s going to get harder for regulators to keep looking the other way.

Who’s Influencing Political Betting Laws in the US?

Unlike casino or sports betting, political betting laws are shaped at the federal level. These are the main players involved and where they stand:

  • CFTC: The main regulator deciding whether political markets count as financial contracts. After years of pushback, the agency dropped its appeal against Kalshi in 2025, allowing the first federally approved election markets to go live.
  • Prediction Market Platforms: Kalshi and PredictIt are driving the movement. Kalshi’s legal win opened the door to regulated markets. PredictIt, still in court, helped lay the groundwork by testing the legal boundaries under an academic exemption.
  • Lawmakers & Advocacy Groups: Some argue that political betting threatens election integrity. Others see it as a data tool that brings transparency. Their influence could shape how Congress or future administrations react to this growing sector.

Gambling Responsibly with Political Markets

Even though political betting is treated more like investing on platforms like Kalshi, the risks remain the same. You’re still putting real money on unpredictable outcomes, and that can lead to financial stress, compulsive behavior, or chasing losses.

If you’re betting on political outcomes, treat it the same way as gambling; there’s no guaranteed way to make a profit, no matter how much you think you know politics.

And if you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER or visit ncpgambling.org for free support and self-exclusion.

What’s Next for Political Betting in the US?

With Kalshi now legally offering election markets, the political betting landscape is changing fast. While states still ban political bets through sportsbooks, federal regulators have opened the door, just narrowly.

The next big test? Whether more platforms try to follow Kalshi’s lead, or if Congress steps in with new rules. Either way, the coming years will bring more legal challenges, public debate, and demand from users who want a piece of the action.

There’s a lot going on in the political world right now, for better or for worse. But have you ever tried to cash in on it with the best politics betting sites?

Some bookies are better than others for political betting, so we’ve curated a list of the best options to check out. We ranked them based on strict criteria, including political market variety, bonuses, banking, and much more. We found BetOnline to be the best overall option, but there are many others to consider.

Want to find out more? Keep on reading.

Best Political Betting Sites

BetOnline Best overall – $250 free bet with 0x WR
Bovada Excellent variety of markets
BUSR Awesome bonuses
MyBookie 24/7 customer support
EveryGame User-friendly interface

Important: The sites listed in this guide are targeting English speakers around the world. Please remember to check your local laws to ensure online gambling is legal where you live. Also, AdBlock might get confused, so please disable it if you have any issues with our links.

During our research, we considered numerous important factors for bettors. We started by taking a look at the available markets and odds; we also considered bonuses and so much more. Let’s discover more about how we ranked these top political betting sites!

1. BetOnline – Best Political Betting Site Overall

BetOnline Sports US - Politics

Pros:

  • Supports crypto transactions
  • A handful of ongoing bonuses
  • In-depth markets for politics betting
  • Highly rated mobile app
  • No wagering requirements

Cons:

  • Simple website design
  • 7.5% fee for credit card transactions

The perfect range of local and international political events markets, excellent bonuses, and a top mobile app are just a few of the reasons we’ve picked BetOnline as the best place to bet on politics right now.

Betting Bonuses: 4.9/5

There are a lot of opportunities to get some generous bonuses at BetOnline, and the first of these is through the free bet promo up to $250 that comes without any wagering requirements. You’ll also get 100 free spins for the casino section of the website.

But that’s not all. After this, you can come back for a 25% reload bonus any time you want with the code LIFEBONUS, plus boosted odds from time to time and more bonuses for the casino section.

Political and Other Betting Markets: 4.95/5

There are usually dozens of political markets to bet on at BetOnline – it wouldn’t have been able to land our number one spot without them!

Right now, you’ll be able to get futures for the next presidential election betting markets as well as Senate bets for each state, for example.

Outside of this, there are dozens of sports to bet on, plus some more interesting markets, such as lotteries from around the world.

App and Site: 5/5

The website design at BetOnline is second to none with its super minimal, sleek aesthetic and sensible layout. Using the website is not only visually pleasing but very easy, as it takes just a few minutes to find anything you might need.

If you want to play on a mobile device, then it’s worth downloading the excellent mobile app. It’s smoother, faster, and generally more pleasing to use. We’re big fans!

Banking Options: 4.9/5

There are plenty of ways to bank at BetOnline. Here are just a few of the options you can expect to see:

  • VISA
  • Mastercard
  • Discover
  • MoneyGram
  • Bitcoin
  • Ethereum

We’ve had to take a few points off in this department because BetOnline charges a 7.5% fee for all credit card transactions, which is going to come as a disappointment for some readers. But at least there are plenty of ways to get around this.

Get your $250 free bet promo

2. Bovada – Best Variety of Political Betting Markets

Bovada Sports US - Politics

Pros:

  • In-depth political markets
  • $750 welcome bonus
  • Low rollover on the welcome bonus
  • 25+ sports covered
  • Great live betting experience

Cons:

  • Fewer reload bonuses
  • Not so many banking options

With political betting odds as good as those at Bovada, you’re going to get great value for your funds! And there’s a whole lot of choice for what to bet on as well.

Betting Bonuses: 4.9/5

Of course, this isn’t as valuable a bonus as that of BetOnline, but the good news is that the rollover is lower at 5x. This means it’s going to be easier to withdraw your winnings! The welcome bonus goes up to $750 at Bovada!

Furthermore, the minimum deposit is lower, and that makes it even more accessible for all the users of Bovada.

Political and Other Betting Markets: 5/5

Bovada is home to an incredible range of politics betting markets.

You can bet on the Senate and other American elections at BetOnline, but they go one step further by allowing betting on the best international politics. You could bet on the next UK Prime Minister or the outcome of a potential Scottish referendum, for example.

And what’s more, they’ve got the odds to boot. In the markets they share with the rest of their top picks, they offer equal or better politics betting odds most of the time. So, you’ll win more money from your wins here, for the most part.

Bovada is also a great place to be for sports betting, with a huge range of markets in even the most niche sports.

App and Site: 4.9/5

There’s another mobile app to download at Bovada, and it’s almost as good as that of BetOnline. In fact, the difference in quality is negligible as there’s still a super clean, minimal design going on here, and it’s very satisfying to use.

The website itself is easy to navigate on a desktop computer.

Banking Options: 4.85/5

You won’t find quite as many ways to pay at Bovada as you will at BetOnline, but there’s still the possibility to bank with any of these methods:

  • VISA
  • Mastercard
  • MatchPay
  • Bitcoin Cash
  • Tether
  • A handful of other cryptocurrencies

And the most important thing is that Bovada processes withdrawal requests really quickly, which is always a good thing.

Grab up to a $750 welcome offer

3. BUSR – Best Political Betting Website for Bonuses

BUSR Sports US - Politics

Pros:

  • Massive sports welcome bonus
  • Attractive desktop website design
  • Good range of US political betting markets
  • Lots of extra bonuses for players
  • Excellent live betting section

Cons:

  • Limited banking options
  • Could use better customer support

Who doesn’t love generous bonuses? We know we do! And we were very impressed with the excellent bonuses available for the users of BUSR! Let’s see what else it has in store.

Betting Bonuses: 5/5

If you use the bonus code SPORTS100FP when you place your first deposit to get it matched some 100% up to $1,500.

The rollover for this bonus is 20x, which is higher than average, but when you consider that it’s a 100% matched deposit instead of the standard 50%, the value is still there and then some. After this, you can grab a matched deposit of up to $500 every time you stake at least $100 and use the code SPORTS20.

Political and Other Betting Markets: 4.8/5

There’s a lot to bet on when it comes to US politics at BUSR, and we’re big fans of the attention to detail there. You won’t find too much outside of the country, though, so we haven’t been able to offer quite full marks for this category.

BUSR actually excels when it comes to sports betting as well, offering very in-depth market coverage in sports from all around the world.

App and Site: 4.7/5

We really like the BUSR website. There’s something pretty classic about it, and it’s interesting in the way that it looks nostalgic but modern at the same time.

You won’t find a downloadable mobile app here, but the mobile site is just as easy to use as the desktop one, so you can still bet on your favorite sports on the go here.

Banking Options: 4.75/5

BUSR isn’t offering a whole lot of ways to pay. You’ll be limited to the following options when you join up here:

  • VISA
  • Mastercard
  • Peer-to-peer
  • Bank wire transfer
  • Bitcoin
  • Litecoin

We’ve definitely seen shorter lists, though, and we do like the fact that BUSR is quick to pay out, so we certainly can’t give a low score for this category.

Get up to a $1,500 bonus

4. MyBookie – Best User Experience of All Politics Betting Websites

MyBookies Sports US - Politics

Pros:

  • In-depth help center
  • Ongoing reload bonus for everyone
  • 24/7, responsive live chat customer support
  • Excellent casino games section
  • Great prop betting options

Cons:

  • Not the best design
  • Fewer markets from around the world

Reliable customer support helps with your peace of mind when you’re betting on politics, and perhaps the most reliable of all can be found at MyBookie.

Betting Bonuses: 4.8/5

You’ll find another 50% matched deposit up to $1,000 at MyBookie, this time with the code MYB50. The rollover is 10x here once more, so this is an encouraging welcome bonus.

As well as this, you can get a 25% reload bonus whenever you like, plus an 8% horse racing cashback bonus, a referral bonus, and more. MyBookie has done some good work here.

Political and Other Betting Markets: 4.85/5

The MyBookie politics betting section is very US-focused if you’re based in the US. It’s all about the United States Presidential Election. It would’ve been nice to have seen some worldwide markets, but at least we can bet on things like the next party candidates.

That being said, we found one or two markets for UK politics, albeit in a different section, the ‘Special Wagers’ area, which also includes other worldwide event markets.

App and Site: 4.8/5

We’re not mega impressed by the MyBookie website, as it feels pretty old. The problem intensifies somewhat on mobile as there’s no app, and the mobile site can be quite tricky to use.

The good news for this category is that if you do have any issues, you’ll be able to get help at the touch of a button. We found the MyBookie customer support team to be the most responsive of all of our top picks, and that goes a long way for us.

They’re available 24/7 through live chat. And if you don’t want to bother with that, you can always check out the extensive help center, which offers loads of useful troubleshooting and other usage information.

We should also point out that MyBookie is probably the best of our top picks today for casino gambling. If you want to spin a few slots or roulette wheels, then this is a good place to be.

Banking Options: 4.75/5

There isn’t exactly an abundance of ways to pay at MyBookie, but they do pay out quickly if you select from one of the handful of cryptocurrencies. For fiat currencies, options are a little more limited. Here’s the list in full:

  • VISA
  • Mastercard
  • MoneyGram
  • Bitcoin
  • Litecoin
  • Bitcoin Cash
  • Ethereum
  • Ripple

Enjoy up to a $1,000 offer

5. EveryGame – Most User-Friendly Online Political Betting Site

EveryGame Sports US - Politics

Pros:

  • Nearly 30 years of experience
  • Great mobile betting site
  • Interesting outsider political bets
  • Low welcome bonus rollover
  • Awesome live betting tools

Cons:

  • Only American political betting
  • Desktop site is a little dull

Looking for an excellent online betting site with an amazing user interface? Look no further – EveryGame’s got you covered.

Betting Bonuses: 5/5

Crypto users get the best deal here. Use the bonus code CRYPTO1K for a 50% bonus up to $1,000 on your first deposit. With a manageable 8x rollover, it’s one of the top crypto sportsbook offers out there.

Prefer fiat? You can still score a 100% match up to $500 with code WELCOME500, also with a low 8x rollover. Both options are great, but crypto clearly gets the edge.

Political and Other Betting Markets: 4.65/5

Like the vast majority of recommended political betting sites, you’ll only be able to get odds on US politics here.

But you’ll still be able to bet on the next US Presidential election fairly extensively. Right now, there are markets for the winner (of course), each candidate for President, and the party to win the election.

Interestingly, there are a lot of options for these markets, so if you want to take a long-shot punt like Brian Kemp to be the next President, then you can.

App and Site: 4.75/5

Even though Everygame doesn’t offer a downloadable mobile app, it’s actually one of the best betting sites for mobile players. The mobile site just makes a lot of sense, loads quickly, and doesn’t look half bad, either.

On a desktop computer, the experience isn’t quite as exciting as on a bigger screen, it looks a little dull. Nonetheless, it’s still easy to use, and that’s going to be the most important thing for many players.

Banking Options: 4.75/5

There are a few more ways to pay at Everygame. Check out the list below:

  • VISA
  • Mastercard
  • AMEX
  • Discover
  • Bitcoin
  • Bitcoin Cash
  • Litecoin
  • Payz
  • Paysafecard
  • EZeeWallet

Unfortunately, the transaction limits for a few of these payment options are quite low, so be sure to check out the cashier section before you sign up to find out about that.

Grab up to a $1,000 bonus

Top Political Betting Sites – Our Ranking Criteria

Betting Bonuses

You can get extra bets, matched deposits, and more in the form of welcome and reload bonuses at a lot of the best political betting sites. We’re analyzing these for their value and the ease of use of their terms and conditions.

Political and Other Betting Markets

Not many real money online betting sites have good political markets, so we’ve made sure to pick 10 that absolutely do. But even between them, some are better than others. It’s good to see early odds for early betting lines, too.

App and Site

Politics betting becomes a lot more enjoyable if the site is actually easy to use. The best sites for political betting can get extra points here for offering a downloadable mobile app, as these are generally a lot more satisfying than just using the mobile site through your phone browser. For example, our Bovada review showed that it has an excellent mobile-compatible website.

Banking Options

It’s great to see a whole lot of ways to pay, but only if the withdrawals are processed quickly and the banking limits aren’t too low. Plus, any banking fees are gonna cause points docking!

Why Is BetOnline the Best Site for Political Betting Online?

There are a few things about BetOnline that really set it apart from the rest, and that’s why it’s claimed our number one spot today:

  • Plenty of political events: You’ll be able to bet on all kinds of political betting markets at BetOnline and get great odds for a lot of them, too.
  • Generous bonuses: There’s a very strong welcome bonus at BetOnline, and this is followed by other free bets in the form of a reload bonus and more.
  • Many banking options supported: You’ll be able to bet with all kinds of fiat currency banking options at BetOnline, and there’s even a handful of cryptocurrencies to pick from if you so wish.
  • Bet on the go in style: BetOnline offers one of the best downloadable mobile apps we’ve come across, so you can enjoy a top betting experience wherever you go.

Did you know? BetOnline also ranks as one of the top-rated sports betting sites in Texas and Florida.

Why Bet on Political Outcomes Online?

There are several reasons why online betting is so popular. Here are some of them:

  • Welcome bonuses: When have you ever walked into a betting shop and been rewarded with free bets or a matched deposit? We’re not saying it never happens, but it’s certainly rarer than how often it occurs online. For example, our BetOnline review shows that it offers new users up to a $250 welcome bonus.
  • More convenient: There’s not a whole lot of point in getting into your car and driving to the bookmakers when you could simply pick up your smartphone or switch on your computer.
  • 24/7 betting: If you have the impulsive urge to bet on politics in the early hours of the morning, then the only way you’re going to be able to do that is online.
  • Better chance of political markets: The simple fact of the matter is that you might not actually even be able to make a political bet in a betting shop. A lot of them are for sports only.

Political Betting Sites – FAQs

What is the Best Place to Bet on Politics?

You won’t find a better political betting site than BetOnline. Although the likes of Bovada, BUSR, MyBookie, and EveryGame all come very close.

Is it Safe to Bet on Politics Online?

Yes, it is safe to bet on politics as long as you choose reputable betting sites like the ones we listed.

What Political Markets Can I Bet On?

You can bet on a wide range of political outcomes at many top betting sites.

From national elections and party leadership races to international referendums and policy decisions, there’s something for everyone.

Top 5 Best Politics Betting Sites – Quick Comparison

BetOnline: Our favorite site for political betting is this. And right now, they’re offering a $250 free bet promo with no wagering requirements.

Bovada: Get a super low rollover with your 50% up to $750 here, and use that bonus funds on some of the incredibly detailed politics betting lines.

BUSR: The generous signup bonus at BUSR sees players land an impressive 100% up to $1,500. That’s just about the most lucrative politics betting bonus available right now.

MyBookie: You can rest assured that you’re in good hands at MyBookie, thanks to their fantastic help center and responsive customer support team. The 50% up to $1,000 welcome bonus with the code MYB50 isn’t half bad either.

EveryGame: With nearly 30 years of experience, EveryGame knows how to look after its customers, and it’s demonstrated that by offering new ones a $1,000 crypto welcome bonus with a low rollover of 8x.

How to Sign Up for a Political Betting Site

If you’re ready to get started at the best political betting sites, then all you need to do is follow these quick steps to grab your betting account. We’ve used BetOnline as a reference, but the signup process should be pretty similar at most bookies.

Step One: Start Registration

Follow this link to visit BetOnline.

You’ll see a green “Join” button in the top right of the BetOnline. Pressing it will take you through to a new page where you’ll need to enter your full name, email address, ZIP code, phone number, and date of birth, as well as make up a password.

Step Two: Grab Your Welcome Bonus

Now that you’re all signed up, it’s time to activate the matched deposit welcome bonus by adding some funds to your account.

You should now see the cashier section on the homepage, so hit that to bring up the banking options, then select one and complete the transaction. Just make sure you put down the minimum amount for the welcome bonus and enter the bonus code when prompted.

Step Three: Start Betting on Politics Online

Now you can start betting on politics online!

Tips on Betting on Political Events Online

  • Keep Up to Date with Betting Insights: If you’re going to bet on politics, it’s a good idea to keep up to date with what’s happening in the world so that you can make the most accurate predictions for your next wager at the best political betting sites.
  • Check Out Advice from the Experts: On the subject of the above, it’s never a bad idea to look at what the pros have to say. You can often find strong political betting advice online, but make sure not to just take it at face value. Analyze those tips for yourself.
  • Look for Competitive Odds: Because political betting has fewer markets than most sports, we can afford to be a little selective with the bookie for its odds. All of our top five have been verified for good political odds, but if you want to go elsewhere, it might be worth doing some homework.

So, What Are the Best Sites for Betting on Politics Online?

We’ve looked at some pretty elite politics betting sportsbooks in this article, but now it’s over to you to decide which one to go for. These top politics betting sites are all pretty close in quality, after all.

Will it be the fantastic all-around package at BetOnline, or do you like the sound of Bovada’s markets, BUSR’s bonuses, or one of our other top picks? Only you can make that call at the end of the day.

No matter what you decide to do, please always wager responsibly.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Online gambling comes with risks. There’s no guarantee of financial gain, so you should only gamble with what you can afford to lose. All information on this site is for entertainment purposes only.

While gambling can be fun, it can also be addictive. If you or anyone you know suffer from a gambling addiction problem, we recommend that you call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 to speak with an advisor. Please remember that our guides and all gambling sites are only for people who are 21+. Also, check with local laws to find out if online gambling is legal in your area.

For free online gambling addiction resources, visit these organizations:

  • https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/
  • https://www.ncpgambling.org/
  • https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/

‘The Office’ Reunion Event Scheduled for August 2–3 at the Meadowlands Exposition Center

By
Moses Lookman
-
the office reunion

Fans of NBC’s The Office will have a chance to see many of their favorite cast members in person this summer. A special reunion event, called “The Reunion,” is scheduled for August 2 and 3, 2025, at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, New Jersey. This two-day fan convention will focus entirely on The Office and will include guest appearances, live panels, autograph sessions, and more.

Key Takeaways
  • Over 20 cast members from NBC’s The Office are set to reunite at the Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus, NJ, on August 2–3, 2025.
  • Tickets start at $44.95, with VIP packages ranging from $249 to $499 and extra add-ons for autographs and selfies.
  • The event will feature panel discussions, meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, and a free afterparty for all paid attendees on Saturday night.

Cast Members Confirmed to Appear

The event will include appearances by several actors from The Office.

Confirmed cast members are:

  • Rainn Wilson (Dwight Schrute)
  • Angela Kinsey (Angela Martin)
  • Brian Baumgartner (Kevin Malone)
  • Oscar Nuñez (Oscar Martinez)
  • Leslie David Baker (Stanley Hudson)
  • Kate Flannery (Meredith Palmer)
  • Paul Lieberstein (Toby Flenderson)
  • Creed Bratton (Creed Bratton)
  • Andy Buckley (David Wallace)

Additional confirmed guests include:

  • Mike Starr
  • Amy Pietz
  • Wayne Wilderson
  • Jackie Debatin
  • Karly Rothenberg
  • Hidetoshi Imura
  • Sam Daly
  • Lindsey Broad
  • Robert Ray Shafer
  • Chris Gethard

Event Schedule and Ticket Details

The event will run on both Saturday and Sunday. On both days, VIP ticket holders can enter at 10:00 a.m., while general admission starts at 11:00 a.m. The convention will stay open until 9:00 p.m. on Saturday and close earlier on Sunday at 5:00 p.m.

General admission tickets cost $44.95. For those who want extra access, there are three VIP options:

  • The Bronze VIP ticket is $249
  • The Silver VIP ticket is $399
  • The Gold VIP ticket, which includes top-tier perks, is $499

If you plan to go on both days, you can buy a weekend pass for $109.95.

Autographs, Selfies, and a Free Afterparty

During the event, fans can also purchase add-ons for autographs and selfies with individual cast members.

In addition to all the daytime activities, there will be a free afterparty on Saturday night, August 2, for anyone who purchased a ticket. The afterparty is open to all paid attendees, no matter what type of ticket they have.

Activities and Panels About the Show

The reunion will include panel discussions, meet-and-greet sessions, and other activities related to The Office. All parts of the event will focus on the show, which aired from 2005 to 2013 and remains popular today through streaming platforms.

This is the first time in New Jersey that so many cast members from the show will be gathered in one place. Because of this, the event may attract large crowds.

A Quieter Year for Bears in New Jersey, According to State Reports

By
Moses Lookman
-
A-Quieter-Year-For-Bears-In-New-Jersey-According-To-State-Reports_FI

In 2025, New Jersey is seeing fewer black bear sightings and complaints than in recent years – likely a relief to many, especially those living in areas where bear activity has been common. The state’s latest data shows a clear drop in incidents involving bears, including fewer sightings and less property damage.

However, that doesn’t mean the bears are gone. In fact, suburban towns are still seeing bears in backyards, near trash bins, and walking through neighborhoods. Even with lower numbers overall, the presence of bears in towns like Ridgewood and Westwood reminds people that these animals remain part of everyday life in many parts of the state.

The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife continues to monitor the situation closely. Wildlife officials are encouraging residents to stay alert, follow safety tips, and avoid giving bears any reason to stick around.

Key Takeaways
  • Black bear incidents in New Jersey dropped by 28.21% in 2025, with 257 cases reported from January 1 to May 21, down from 358 in the same period in 2024.
  • Bears are still active in towns like Ridgewood and Westwood, where they were seen breaking into trash and eating from bird feeders.
  • New Jersey’s black bear population has more than doubled since 2018 and is now present in all 21 counties.

Bear Sightings Drop Across the State in 2025

Between January 1 and May 21, 2025, the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife recorded 257 black bear incidents statewide. During the same period in 2024, there were 358 incidents, which represents a 28.21% decrease in total bear-related incidents in New Jersey.

In addition to the overall drop, bear sightings specifically also went down. There were 63 reported sightings in 2025 as of May 21, compared to 94 during the same period in 2024. That is a decline of 32.98%. Reports of black bear damage and nuisance also fell. In 2025, there were 194 reports of bear-related damage and nuisance incidents, down from 264 in the same timeframe in 2024.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) classifies black bear incidents into three categories. Category I incidents involve bears that are a threat to public safety or property. Category II refers to nuisance bears, which are not a direct threat to public safety or property. Category III describes normal bear behavior that is not considered threatening. These categories are part of the Black Bear Activity Reports issued by the Division of Fish and Wildlife. The reports include incidents reported to the DEP, but they do not include cases handled by local police departments unless the DEP was involved.

In 2025, Sussex County reported the most black bear incidents in the state, with 103. Warren County reported 65 incidents, and Morris County reported 36. According to the DEP’s most recent monthly report, which covered the period from April 20 through May 21, bear sightings, damage incidents, nuisance complaints, and total reported incidents were all down by nearly 50% compared to the same period in 2024.

DEP spokesperson Larry Hajna stated that it is difficult to draw conclusions based on short-term data. He explained that black bear activity and the number of public reports can be influenced by many factors, including food availability, weather, and the harvest rates from the previous hunting season.

Bears Are Still Being Spotted in Some Neighborhoods

Even with the decrease in reported activity, bears are still appearing in New Jersey neighborhoods. In Ridgewood, Bergen County, a black bear was seen multiple times in early June 2025. Surveillance cameras recorded the bear opening a trash bin on Hillcrest Road that had been secured with bungee cords. The bear successfully accessed the contents of the bin – this was the second bear sighting on Hillcrest Road in two days.

The bear was also seen walking through other parts of Ridgewood, including the backyards of residents on the west side of town. Ridgewood police confirmed they had received reports of a bear moving through the area. Ridgewood residents used text messages and Facebook groups to keep each other updated about the bear’s location. Sightings of black bears in Ridgewood are not uncommon, but some residents expressed concern because of how close the bear was to the downtown area.

In Westwood, a bear was reported in a backyard on First Avenue early in the morning. The bear was eating from the bird feeders. The Westwood Police Department stated that this kind of activity is not unusual in early spring. Police searched the area later in the day but did not locate the bear. The department reminded residents to use caution and remain aware of their surroundings.

Bear Population Expands Across New Jersey

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has stated that black bears now live in all 21 counties in the state. Although black bears are most commonly found in Sussex, Passaic, Warren, and Morris counties, their range has expanded over time.

According to NJDEP data, black bear-related incidents in Bergen County increased from 43 during the January to September period in 2023 to 59 in the same period in 2024. The NJDEP attributes changes in bear activity to seasonal food availability, natural bear behavior, and increased public awareness, which can influence how often people report sightings.

In Paramus, a black bear was seen running across Benton Road on April 30, 2018. In Teaneck, New Milford, and Bogota, bear sightings have been confirmed. These sightings typically occur near parks, wooded areas, and waterways. Bears are often drawn to unsecured trash, bird feeders, pet food, and grease on outdoor grills.

In 2018, New Jersey’s black bear population was estimated at approximately 1,500. In recent years, the population has grown to over 3,000. NJDEP projections estimate the bear population could exceed 4,000 by 2026. This population increase, combined with suburban development in former bear habitats, means that interactions between bears and people are becoming more frequent in residential areas.

Bears Are Active Year-Round but Most Common in Spring and Fall

The Division of Fish and Wildlife states that black bears in New Jersey are not true hibernators. Instead, they enter a state of dormancy called torpor during winter. In torpor, a bear’s heart and breathing rates slow down, and its body temperature drops slightly. Bears in torpor can wake easily and may leave their dens on mild winter days to look for food.

In spring, bears emerge from their dens and actively forage. They remain active through the summer breeding season and during the fall when they prepare to den for the winter. Pregnant females usually enter their dens by late October. Males may wait until December. Dens vary in type and can include hollow trees, rock cavities, ground nests, or areas beneath buildings.

What to Do if You See a Bear

New Jersey officials have shared several tips to help people avoid bear problems. People should keep trash in bear-resistant containers or store it inside. Grills should be cleaned and stored properly. Bird feeders should not be used between April 1 and December 1. Pet food bowls should not be left outside. Meat, dairy, and sweet foods should not go into compost piles. Fruit and nuts that fall from trees should be removed.

Electric fencing is recommended for protecting crops, beehives, and livestock.

If you see a bear, you should:

  • Not run.
  • Back away slowly.
  • Do not look the bear in the eyes, as it may see that as a challenge.
  • Make loud noises by shouting, banging pans, or using an air horn.
  • Make yourself look bigger by raising your arms.
  • If the bear shows warning signs—such as huffing, snapping its jaws, or swatting the ground—continue backing away slowly.

Sometimes a bear might stand on its back legs or move closer, but that does not always mean it is going to attack. Either way, stay vigilant, and if the bear does not leave, go inside a house or a car.

That said, you may not be able to make it to somewhere enclosed, in which case, according to officials, you should fight back if the bear attacks you. Attacks are very rare, but they have happened. In 2014, a Rutgers University student was killed by a black bear in West Milford – the first deadly bear attack in New Jersey in 150 years.

Bear Shot in West Harrison, New York

On June 5, 2025, CBS New York reported that a bear was shot and killed in West Harrison, a residential neighborhood in Westchester County, New York. Police said the bear was roaming around the area. West Harrison is about 22 miles northeast of New York City. The neighborhood is made up of closely spaced homes. The bear was described as scared when people approached it.

New Jersey Officials Continue to Monitor the Situation

Even with the drop in incidents this year, black bears remain a part of life in New Jersey. They now live in every part of the state, and bear-related problems can happen anywhere. Residents are being asked to stay alert and follow safety guidelines.

People who live in areas with frequent bear sightings, like Mahwah, Oakland, Ringwood, and Wayne, should have a safety plan, including teaching children what to do if they see a bear, using whistles or air horns, and knowing where to go to stay safe. If a bear gets into your home, officials say to leave doors open so it can find its way out.

Anyone who sees a bear causing damage or acting aggressively should contact their local police or call the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife at 877-927-6337. For updates and more information, the DEP’s Black Bear Activity Reports are available at dep.nj.gov/njfw/bears/activity-reports.

Mobile-First Casinos: How NJ Players Are Going App-Only

By
Lucia Schettino
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Rise of Mobile Casinos in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the clatter of chips and the buzz of slot machines haven’t disappeared, but they’re no longer the whole story. These days, the real action happens in the palm of your hand. From high-rises in Jersey City to parked cars outside Wawa, players are logging into mobile casinos instead of lining up at tables. Atlantic City still draws crowds, but the casino floor has gone portable.

This shift isn’t subtle. It’s a full-blown redefinition of how and where people gamble. The rise of mobile-first casinos, apps designed specifically for the mobile experience, not just repackaged desktop sites, has made gaming faster, more personal, and wildly more accessible.

You don’t need a hotel room and a comped drink to place a bet anymore. You just need a decent Wi-Fi signal.

New Jersey saw this coming. Long before other states caught on, it was already investing in the infrastructure, regulation, and partnerships needed to support a thriving mobile casino industry. Now, it’s not just riding the wave: it’s steering it.

The Rise of Mobile Gambling

If you thought online gambling in New Jersey had peaked, think again. April 2025 saw internet gaming revenue in the Garden State hit $235.2 million, a staggering 25.2% jump from the same time last year. To put it in perspective, that’s nearly half of the state’s total gaming revenue for the month ($536.6 million), according to data from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement. And this isn’t a blip. It’s the new normal.

Zoom out a bit, and the trend becomes even clearer. In 2024, online casino games alone (slots and table games, not sports betting), raked in $2.36 billion across New Jersey. That’s a 24.5% increase over the previous year. The days when online gambling was a niche side business are gone. Now, it’s the front door, the lobby, and most of the house.

Leading the charge are the big-name operators, all of whom have invested heavily in mobile-first experiences. These aren’t just desktop sites adapted for phones. We’re talking slick, purpose-built apps with biometric logins, personalized promos, and game lobbies that load faster than you can say “Blackjack.” Players aren’t waiting until they get home, they’re placing bets on the subway, during lunch breaks, or while waiting for their kid’s soccer game to end.

Why the shift? Convenience is the obvious answer, but it’s not the whole story. There’s a generational handoff happening. Younger gamblers aren’t interested in driving to Atlantic City for a night out when the same experience, plus a welcome bonus and zero lines, fits in their pocket. Mobile gambling isn’t just rising. It’s becoming the default.

Why Players Are Choosing Apps Over the Web

Somewhere between the moment you click “Accept Cookies” and the tenth pop-up that hijacks your screen, the magic of browser gambling fades. In New Jersey, players are waking up to that reality and responding with a simple solution: they’re going all-in on apps.

This isn’t just about preference. It’s about performance, speed, and the way online mobile casinos have evolved into intuitive, high-stakes playgrounds. Whether it’s poker on the bus or blackjack in bed, the best mobile casino experience is no longer in your browser. It’s in your pocket.

Seamless User Experience

Mobile browsers weren’t designed for adrenaline. They buffer. They crash mid-spin. They demand patience, something gamblers have in short supply when the stakes are hot. Meanwhile, mobile casino apps are fluid, fast, and frictionless. The design is tighter. The transitions are smoother. And most importantly, the wins feel closer.

Biometric logins (like Face ID and fingerprint access) on apps offered by popular operators remove the hassle of repeated logins. Want to deposit? Two taps. Want to switch from roulette to video poker? You’re there in seconds. When your competition is milliseconds away, this matters.

Enhanced Engagement and Retention

Here’s the part browser-based sites can’t match: presence. Once you download an app, it lives with you. It sends notifications. It whispers about bonuses and tournaments while you’re checking the weather. It’s there when boredom strikes before you even open a tab.

Apps aren’t just more available, they’re more personal. Platforms have leaned into this, rolling out tools like “My Spend” that track and display your betting habits. Apps report that nearly half of their users have engaged with that feature, showing how the best mobile casinos don’t just want your attention, but they want to earn your trust as well.

Exclusive Mobile Promotions

In the race to offer the best mobile casino experience, promotions are a secret weapon. And many of the most generous offers? They’re mobile-only. Think of risk-free bets, boosted odds, or deposit matches that only show up once you’ve downloaded the app.

This isn’t just a gimmick. Operators know that once a player downloads the app, the odds of them returning skyrocket, so they reward that loyalty with app-specific perks.

Catering to Digital Natives

If you’re under 35, you’re probably not clicking around a desktop site to play baccarat. You’re tapping, swiping, and streaming everything, from Netflix to slot spins, on your phone. And online mobile casinos have taken note.

The best mobile casinos have adapted to mimic the feel of social media: swipeable lobbies, push notifications, and real-time chats with support or other players. For digital natives, it’s not just a convenience thing, it’s cultural. If it doesn’t fit into a mobile lifestyle, it doesn’t get used. It’s as simple as that.

Regulatory Support and Security

It’s one thing to build a beautiful app, it’s another to earn player trust. That’s where New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement comes in. They’ve laid out clear, rigorous standards that every legal mobile casino must follow. We’re talking encrypted payments, transparent odds, and built-in tools to prevent gambling harm.

This security net makes a real difference, especially for players who are cautious about gambling online. Knowing that the app is licensed, audited, and overseen by a regulatory body makes users more likely to download and stay. That trust? It’s part of what separates the best mobile casino experiences from the rest.

App Culture Is Here to Stay

So what does all this add up to? A cultural shift. Not just in how people gamble, but also in how they expect to interact with digital experiences. Mobile apps aren’t a sidekick to the browser anymore, they’re the main character. And in New Jersey, players have made their choice.

Will browsers disappear entirely? Probably not. But for anyone serious about seamless gaming, fast access, and exclusive rewards, the message is loud and clear: the future of online mobile casinos is in the app store.

The Technology Powering Mobile Casinos

The next time you tap into a mobile casino app, take a moment, because what’s happening behind that clean interface is anything but simple. What looks like a quick login and a few spins is actually a finely tuned system of security checks, real-time analytics, and geo-verification working together in the background. And it all happens in seconds.

New Jersey didn’t build its thriving mobile gambling scene on luck; it built it on infrastructure. From day one, regulators and developers knew that the future of mobile phone casino gaming had to be seamless and safe. That meant investing in tools that could do what dealers and pit bosses once handled: verify who you are, where you are, and whether you’re playing by the rules.

Geolocation: Ensuring Legal Play

Geolocation isn’t optional, it’s the gatekeeper. If you’re not physically inside New Jersey (or another legalized state), you’re not getting in.

These apps cross-reference GPS, Wi-Fi signals, and your IP address before even letting you load a game. The tech has come a long way since 2013, when users just over the border would get bounced for no good reason. Now? It’s precise, silent, and essential.

Biometric Authentication: Enhancing Security

Passwords are out. Biometrics are in. Whether it’s a fingerprint or Face ID, casino mobile apps now use biometric authentication to keep your account locked down and make logging in frictionless. It’s one of those features you don’t think about until you use it. Then, you never want to go back. Fast, secure, and less prone to human error, it’s the industry’s quiet MVP.

Push Notifications: Personalized Engagement

There was a time when push notifications felt like digital hecklers, constant, irrelevant, and always interrupting dinner. Today’s smarter mobile casinos have dialed it in. They now use player behavior to time their messages. If you’ve just logged out, they’ll wait. If you’re active on Wednesdays, guess when you’ll get your bonus alert? It’s not mind-reading, it’s good data.

Real-Time Analytics: Tailoring the Experience

Real-time analytics is where things get personal. The more you play, the more your app learns. Not just what games you like, but how long you stay, when you take breaks, and even how you bet. This isn’t surveillance, it’s service.

The best mobile casino platforms use that data to tailor your experience, whether suggesting new games or adjusting promo offers. It’s like having a concierge, only faster.

Why Mobile-First Matters: The Shift in User Behavior

Scroll through any New Jersey casino app’s analytics dashboard, and a clear pattern emerges: the desktop crowd is shrinking, fast. Today’s gamblers (especially the under-40 crowd) aren’t logging in from their laptops after dinner. They’re tapping into blackjack on the train, placing a bet while waiting for coffee, spinning the slots from bed. Mobile-first isn’t a trend anymore. It’s the baseline.

The change isn’t just about screen size. It’s about expectations. Today’s users demand speed, personalization, and zero friction. A clunky interface or lagging load time isn’t just annoying, it’s a dealbreaker. If your casino app can’t deliver immediacy, it won’t even make it to the second swipe.

Younger Gamblers Expect Mobile by Default

For Gen Z and younger millennials, the idea of downloading a desktop client or navigating a casino’s website through a browser feels like stepping into the past. These users grew up with smartphones, and their digital instincts are shaped by apps, not web forms. They want games that load in seconds, payment methods that sync with Apple Pay, and interfaces that behave like Instagram, not Internet Explorer.

The shift to mobile-first isn’t just aesthetic. It’s functional. Native apps allow operators to create personalized dashboards, serve dynamic promotions, and optimize every pixel for conversion. Browsers can’t match that agility. That’s why mobile-first casinos see longer session times and higher average revenue per user.

Push notifications, location-based bonuses, and AI-driven game suggestions are now standard. If your app doesn’t know your user, someone else’s will. And that someone else? They’re one tap away in the App Store.

It’s Not Just Mobile-Optimized. It’s Mobile-Obsessed.

There’s a difference between making your casino work on mobile and designing for mobile from the start. The latter means embracing vertical video, thumb-friendly navigation, and instant game switching. It means rethinking UX from the ground up, not cramming a desktop design onto a smaller screen.

The best-performing mobile casinos in New Jersey aren’t just mobile-accessible. They’re mobile-first, down to the code, and users can feel the difference.

Impact on Traditional Casinos

It’s not that gamblers have stopped visiting Atlantic City. The slot machines are still humming, and poker tables still fill up on weekends.

But there’s no denying it: foot traffic isn’t what it used to be. In April 2025, in-person casino revenue in New Jersey slipped 2.7% compared to the same month last year. It might seem like a small drop, but in a business built on margins and momentum, it’s the kind of number that raises eyebrows and boardroom alarms.

The shift isn’t dramatic. It’s incremental. And that’s what makes it dangerous. Gamblers haven’t abandoned physical casinos altogether; they’ve just started showing up less often, staying for shorter periods, and spending more time on their phones.

What once required a night out—parking, lines, tables, noise—now lives in an app, available 24/7, minus the dress code. In short, the bar for “convenience” has moved, and traditional casinos are racing to catch up.

Some operators have taken the hint. Instead of resisting the digital wave, they’re learning to ride it. Some casinos are investing in companion apps, remote loyalty programs, and digital wallet integration, blending the best of both worlds. Others are experimenting with hybrid experiences: in-person poker tournaments that tie into online qualifiers or sports betting lounges with app-only perks and second-screen features. It’s not just innovation, it’s survival.

Still, adaptation isn’t universal. Smaller properties, especially those without major digital infrastructure, are feeling the squeeze. They rely heavily on in-person events, buffet traffic, and walk-ins, segments now undercut by mobile convenience. The question isn’t whether physical casinos will survive but whether they can evolve fast enough to stay culturally relevant. Players, especially younger ones, are becoming harder to impress with just neon lights and free drinks.

In a way, it’s not a decline. It’s a recalibration. The idea of what a “casino” is—and where it lives, is changing. The house isn’t just a building anymore. It’s an ecosystem. And for the old guard, the future won’t be won with bigger buildings but smarter connections. The winners will be the ones who meet players where they already are: online, on their phones, and expecting more.

How New Jersey Became a Mobile Gaming Hub

New Jersey didn’t stumble into dominance; it sprinted ahead while most other states still argued about whether online gambling was worth the risk. It didn’t just open the door to mobile casinos; it knocked down the whole wall.

By legalizing online gaming early and backing it up with one of the most robust regulatory systems in the country, the state turned a gamble into a long-term play and won big.

They Didn’t Wait for Permission

Back in 2013, when most of the country was still wringing its hands about the morality of online gambling, New Jersey said: let’s regulate it and make it work. Then-Governor Chris Christie signed legislation that year, and by November, the first licensed platforms were live. It wasn’t perfect out of the gate, but it was fast, deliberate, and ambitious. And it gave the state a massive first-mover advantage.

Tech Headaches and Bank Blockades

Of course, early adopters take the hits first. At launch, geolocation tools were buggy, kicking out players sitting squarely within New Jersey borders. Banks, still wary of federal pressure, rejected thousands of perfectly legal transactions.

But instead of backing off, regulators leaned in. They worked with banks to create custom merchant codes and pushed tech providers to refine their tools. Within a year, approval rates jumped, and complaints dropped.

Regulators Who Knew the Game

Here’s where Jersey really pulled ahead: enforcement. The Division of Gaming Enforcement, led by David Rebuck, didn’t just act as a watchdog, it acted as a partner. Their approach balanced oversight with collaboration, setting clear expectations while giving operators space to innovate. This steady hand reassured both consumers and major platforms that the market was safe, serious, and built to last.

Billions Later, The Bet Paid Off

Fast-forward to 2024, and the numbers tell the story: $6.3 billion in total gambling revenue, with a huge chunk of that coming from online and mobile phone casino play. What started as a bold experiment is now a national benchmark. The convenience, speed, and personalization of casino mobile platforms are drawing more players by the month, and they’re sticking around.

The Atlantic City Dilemma: Adapting to a Mobile-First World

There’s something almost cinematic about Atlantic City, its neon glow, the clang of coins hitting trays, the echo of cheers from a roulette win. But behind that familiar soundtrack, a quieter revolution is taking place.

More players now walk the casino floor with a phone in hand, tapping into mobile online casinos even while surrounded by the real thing. Atlantic City isn’t dying, it’s evolving. But it has a decision to make: adapt or become a backdrop to its own obsolescence.

The smartest casinos aren’t resisting the shift, they’re folding it into their strategy. Many of them have started syncing their in-person experiences with mobile apps, letting players track loyalty points, get comped rooms, or even check wait times for table games, all from their phones.

These hybrid experiences bridge the gap between physical gaming and the fast-growing world of casinos for mobile phones, turning every moment into an opportunity to engage (and retain) the player.

It’s not just about convenience, it’s about control. With mobile casinos, players can continue earning rewards even after they’ve left the building. An evening at the slots can turn into a late-night poker hand at home, and the loyalty points still count.

These seamless transitions are no accident; they’re part of a broader push to make casinos feel less like destinations and more like ecosystems, accessible, always-on, and driven by mobile-first technology.

That said, not everyone is keeping pace. Independent casinos, many of which rely on traditional foot traffic and older clientele, are struggling to retrofit their operations for a mobile-centric audience.

Developing a custom app or partnering with a mobile platform isn’t cheap. And for venues already operating on thin margins, investing in tech can feel like a gamble in itself. But in a world where mobile online casinos are pulling in record revenue month after month, the cost of standing still may be even higher.

Atlantic City still has the magic. But magic isn’t enough anymore, not when players expect their casino to fit in their pocket. The winners of this new era won’t just be those with the biggest lobbies or flashiest floors, they’ll be the ones who master the art of presence across every screen. Because in 2025, if you’re not in the app store, you’re not really in the game.

What’s Next? Predictions for 2026 and Beyond

By 2026, casino mobile platforms won’t just be smoother, they’ll be smarter. AI will drive real-time personalization: custom bonuses, tailored game suggestions, even nudges when it’s time to take a break. The best mobile casino will feel more like a personal assistant than a gaming app.

On the tech front, augmented reality could finally go mainstream. Imagine a live dealer dealing cards across your coffee table via AR. With 5G, phone casino real money games will stream faster, with sharper graphics and near-zero lag.

Social features are coming, too. Expect private poker rooms with friends, real-time betting chat, and live community slots, turning solo gaming into a shared experience, straight from your phone.

But with growth comes responsibility. Regulators are eyeing new standards: built-in limits, AI-powered risk alerts, and mandatory cool-off tools for every casino mobile app. Trust will matter as much as flash.

In short, the casino of 2026 won’t just be in your pocket, it’ll be learning from you, reacting to you, and asking for your trust every time you spin.

All Bets Are Mobile: The House in Your Hand

New Jersey isn’t just leading the charge in online gambling, it’s redefining it. What began as a regulatory experiment is now a full-fledged ecosystem where the mobile phone casino has taken center stage. Players no longer need a hotel stay or a drive down the Parkway to feel the rush; now, the casino fits in their pocket, ready when they are.

But this isn’t just about convenience. It’s about control, customization, and connection. The best mobile casino doesn’t just deliver games, it delivers a personalized experience, backed by tech that knows your habits, your preferences, and limits. In a saturated market, trust and ease matter more than flashing lights.

Atlantic City will always have its place. There’s something about the energy, the noise, the buzz. But in 2025 and beyond, the real action is increasingly happening on-screen. The mobile phone casino isn’t replacing the old way, it’s rewriting the rules. And if the last few years are any indication, players aren’t just ready for it: they’re already logged in.

Yankees Injury Update: Cousins Waits for Results, Stroman Returns to the Mound, and Stanton Looks Ready

By
Paulius Kundzelevicius
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Yankees Injury Update: Stanton, Stroman, Jake Cousins

Right now, the New York Yankees are managing three different injury situations that could affect how they move forward this season. Jake Cousins was pulled from his rehab assignment after feeling pain in his elbow. Marcus Stroman is scheduled to make his first rehab start for Double-A Somerset. At the same time, Giancarlo Stanton has officially started his rehab games and had a strong showing at the plate. Each case is different, but all are important as the Yankees head into their weekend series at Fenway Park.

Key Takeaways
  • Jake Cousins was pulled from his rehab assignment due to right elbow discomfort and has undergone an MRI; results are pending.
  • Marcus Stroman is scheduled to make his first rehab start on Wednesday for Double-A Somerset after dealing with left knee inflammation.
  • Giancarlo Stanton began his rehab assignment with Somerset, going 2-for-3 with a walk and three RBI, showing progress in his return from elbow tendinitis.

Jake Cousins’ Rehab Paused After Elbow Discomfort

Starting with Jake Cousins, he had been working his way back from a forearm and pectoral injury that began during spring training. He was on a rehab assignment when the Yankees stopped it because he felt something in his right elbow. Manager Aaron Boone said Cousins told the team that “he felt some stuff in his elbow,” which led to the decision to shut him down.

Cousins, who is 30 years old, then had an MRI and met with doctors on Tuesday. The team is still waiting on full results, and it’s not the first time Cousins had imaging done. An MRI back in February showed no structural damage to his ulnar collateral ligament. But the new pain raises new concerns.

Cousins has not pitched yet in 2025. Last year, he appeared in 37 games and had a 2.37 ERA with a 1.05 WHIP. He also had eight holds and got one save in one chance. In those appearances, he struck out 53 batters in 38 innings. His absence has been noticeable, especially with the bullpen working hard this season.

Marcus Stroman Set for First Rehab Start in Double-A Somerset

While the Yankees are still waiting for more news on Cousins, they’re seeing progress with Marcus Stroman. Stroman is scheduled to start a rehab game on Wednesday for the Double-A Somerset Patriots. This will be his first time back on the mound since mid-April.

Stroman last pitched for the Yankees on April 11 against the San Francisco Giants at Yankee Stadium. He was taken out of the game early, and the next day, April 12, he was placed on the injured list with inflammation in his left knee. Since then, he has had two separate setbacks due to discomfort in the same knee while trying to ramp back up.

So far this season, Stroman has made three starts. In those games, he gave up 12 earned runs in 9.1 innings. Earlier in spring training, there were some questions about his role since the team had five other starters. Stroman made it clear that he planned to stay in the rotation, though that all changed when Luis Gil suffered a lat injury and Gerrit Cole was ruled out for the season with an elbow injury. These events gave Stroman a spot in the rotation before he got hurt.

Now, as he gets ready to pitch again, the Yankees will need to figure out how to fit him back in. The current rotation includes Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt, Will Warren, and Ryan Yarbrough. Boone has not said exactly what the team will do, but moving Yarbrough back to the bullpen is one option.

Giancarlo Stanton Begins Rehab Assignment with Strong Performance

The Yankees also received a positive sign from Giancarlo Stanton. On Tuesday night, Stanton played in his first rehab game for Double-A Somerset. He was the designated hitter and batted second. In that game, he went 2-for-3, walked once, and drove in three runs. He had a two-run single and an RBI single in his last two at-bats.

Stanton has been dealing with tendinitis in both elbows. The issue got worse in January and forced him to stop hitting during the offseason. He had been managing the condition last year and still ended the postseason strong. He was named ALCS MVP after hitting seven home runs in 14 postseason games.

Since early April, Stanton has been hitting against high-speed pitching machines. Last month, he started taking live batting practice. At the Yankees’ facility in Tampa, Florida, he had been getting 5–7 live at-bats per day to get back into game shape.

Manager Aaron Boone said Stanton would play again on Wednesday, also in Somerset. The Yankees will then decide whether he’ll play Thursday. Boone said the team will decide on a plan for the weekend after seeing how he feels. The Yankees are set to face the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park this weekend, but Boone did not commit to a return date.

Boone added that Stanton will have input in the decision. “He knows himself so well,” Boone said. “He knows what he needs as far as live reps, machine stuff, and then building up his body. He’s a pretty good evaluator.” Boone also said, “Just making sure he’s had the necessary reps that… when he’s ready to join us, he’s Big G.”

Aaron Judge also shared how important Stanton is to the team. He said, “Everyone in this room can’t wait to see him,” referring not just to Stanton’s power but his leadership in the clubhouse.

Stanton’s Return Could Shift Playing Time for Several Yankees

Once Stanton is ready, the Yankees may need to shuffle their lineup. Ben Rice has been the main designated hitter while Stanton has been out. Paul Goldschmidt and Trent Grisham have also played key roles in the offense. Jasson Domínguez is another name to watch.

With Stanton back, Boone might give Goldschmidt more rest at first base. Rice, who has mostly been used as a DH, could play first base a few times a week. Rice also plays catcher but has only made five appearances there since joining the Yankees last June.

The Yankees are testing different ideas. Goldschmidt was seen taking ground balls at second base, even though he has never played there in his nearly 2,000 career games. There’s also talk of using a more flexible setup—maybe Rice at third base, Jazz Chisholm Jr. at second, Goldschmidt at first, and Stanton as DH. These are just ideas the team is exploring.

Last month, on May 7, Stanton was seen taking batting practice and appeared to be swinging carefully. His performance in Tuesday’s game shows improvement. According to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch, the Yankees announced that Stanton would begin his rehab assignment and that they expect him to return in less than two weeks.

Loew’s Jersey Theatre to Reopen in 2026 After $130M Restoration

By
Moses Lookman
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Loew-Jersey-Theatre-Reopen-2026-After-$130M-Restoration_FI

The Loew’s Jersey Theatre, located in Journal Square, Jersey City, is in the middle of a major $130 million renovation. The theater first opened in September 1929, just before the Great Depression. It was designed in the Baroque Revival style by architects C.W. and George Rapp and was known for its marble finishes, gold details, and grand design.

The building is now 96 years old and was added to the New Jersey Register of Historic Places in 1985. It officially closed on August 21, 1986, after years of disrepair. While it reopened for limited events in 2001, it has not been fully restored until now.

Construction started in 2021, and the building is still a construction site. Inside, the seats have been removed, the ceiling plaster is being repaired, and the smell of fresh sawdust fills the air. Workers are rebuilding areas like the mezzanine lounges and musician galleries. Work on the upper and mid balconies began in 2022.

Key Takeaways
  • The Loew’s Jersey Theatre is being renovated for $130 million and will reopen in fall 2026 with modern systems, ADA access, and seating for up to 4,000 people.
  • Jersey City, with support from the state and HBSE, is using the project to turn Journal Square into a major arts and entertainment district.
  • Some residents are upset that changes, like removing the original marquee, were made without public input, despite decades of community efforts to save the theater.

How the Loew’s Theatre Restoration Supports Journal Square

Mayor Steven Fulop recently visited the site and said the renovation is more than just fixing up one building. He believes it will help bring new life to the Journal Square neighborhood. Fulop pointed out that, before World War II, the area had three performance halls. Celebrities like Frank Sinatra were seen there, and the Loew’s was once a popular place for shows and movies.

Fulop wants Jersey City, especially Journal Square, to become the main center for arts and entertainment in New Jersey. He mentioned that Newark is often seen as holding that title, with places like NJPAC, Symphony Hall, and the Newark Museum of Art. He also named the Princeton University Art Museum as another major cultural site.

Fulop also supports building another venue called the Symphony Center in the Powerhouse Arts District. This new space would become home to the New Jersey Symphony. The symphony also announced in 2024 that it would move its offices from Newark, where it had been based since 1965, to Jersey City.

Geoff Anderson, vice president of the New Jersey Symphony, said the move had been in the works for three years. He believes Jersey City will become the most populated city in the state. He also said that people from New York are already attending shows and expect even more visitors once the new concert hall opens. He pointed out that it would be easy to get to the venue by PATH train or ferry.

Another big part of Fulop’s vision is to bring the Centre Pompidou, a world-famous museum, to 808 Pavonia Avenue in Jersey City. When asked about it, he simply said, “It’s coming,” showing that he believes the project will happen.

Loew’s Theatre Construction Details and Timeline

The construction is being led by Phelps Construction Group. The project is funded through a partnership between Jersey City, the State of New Jersey, and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE). HBSE is also in charge of booking and managing the Loew’s. They already run the Prudential Center in Newark and White Eagle Hall in Jersey City.

The renovation was originally expected to cost $72 million in 2021, but the price has gone up to $130 million. A spokesperson from HBSE said the increase came from construction delays and rising material costs.

Doug Phelps, CEO of Phelps Construction Group, said the goal is to restore the theater’s historic look while also making it modern and functional. He confirmed that all the original design elements will be brought back to life, and the building will become a “state-of-the-art facility.”

The updates include brand-new heating, air conditioning, electrical, plumbing, and a sprinkler system. The building will also meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards.

One special feature is the ability to change the seating setup. The Loew’s will have space for 2,500 to 4,000 people, depending on the event. Some seats will be built on platforms that can be moved to the basement. This will allow for standing-room shows when needed.

Another important piece of the renovation is the “Wonder Morton” pipe organ, which is being carefully protected during construction. The Garden State Theatre Organ Society confirmed it will be featured once the theater reopens.

What Events to Expect at the New Loew’s Jersey Theatre

The restored Loew’s Jersey Theatre is scheduled to reopen in fall 2026. Once open, it will host around 110 events during its first year. These will include touring music acts, comedy shows, and local stage productions.

Bill Hanousek, corporate communications manager for HBSE, explained that Loew’s will likely have the same variety of shows seen at the Prudential Center. He said, “If you look at the calendar of events at Prudential, you see K-pop, hip hop, legacy acts, top-40 artists — expect to see the same thing here.” He also mentioned the potential for Netflix and comedy specials.

The renovation is also expected to help the local economy. Mayor Fulop said the project will create 115 permanent jobs in the Journal Square area. He added that many more jobs could come from nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and nightlife businesses once the theater is open. He pointed to White Eagle Hall as an example of how a smaller venue helped improve its neighborhood. Fulop said the Loew’s project is much bigger and will make an even greater difference.

Local Reactions to the Loew’s Theatre Renovation

Not everyone is happy with how the project is being handled. A local resident wrote an opinion piece describing their strong connection to the theater. They remembered going to the Loew’s as a child and said it felt like a magical place.

The writer was upset about the removal of the theater’s original marquee and said the change happened without public input. They said, “That’s not preservation. That’s erasure.” The op-ed called for more transparency from city leaders and more communication with the public.

Groups like Friends of the Loew’s and the Jersey City Landmarks Conservancy, who helped save the building in the past, are also concerned. The op-ed argued that local residents should have a say in how public money is used, especially when restoring historic buildings.

In response, Doug Phelps confirmed that the marquee will be restored to match the 1929 original. He also said all the historic features are being brought back as closely as possible.

While Friends of the Loew’s will no longer manage the theater, they will still be involved as the nonprofit partner during and after the restoration.

Bayonne’s Division of Recreation to Begin Summer Swim Lessons on June 30

By
Moses Lookman
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The Bayonne Division of Recreation has announced the start of its summer swim lesson program at the DiDomenico Municipal Pool, located at 16th Street in Bayonne. The program begins on Monday, June 30, and will run for five weeks, weather permitting.

The lessons are open only to Bayonne residents and are available to children who will be entering grades 1 through 8. Each child will attend one 30-minute lesson per week, for a total of five lessons during the program.

Key Takeaways
  • Swim lessons begin June 30 and run once a week for five weeks at the DiDomenico Municipal Pool, exclusively for Bayonne children in grades 1–8.
  • Registration costs $175 for the first child, $125 for the second, and the third child is free, with sessions limited to 15 children each.
  • Each grade group has two session options, but participants may only choose one; lessons last 30 minutes and will be rescheduled in case of bad weather.

Grade-Level Scheduling and Session Options for All Participants

The swim lessons are divided by grade level, and each grade group has two available session options. Participants may choose only one session and are expected to arrive 10–15 minutes before their scheduled time.

The schedule is as follows:

1st and 2nd Grade participants may choose one of the following sessions:

  • Mondays from 6:15 PM to 6:45 PM
  • Thursdays from 6:15 PM to 6:45 PM

3rd and 4th Grade participants may choose one of the following sessions:

  • Wednesdays from 6:15 PM to 6:45 PM
  • Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM

5th through 8th Grade participants may choose one of the following sessions:

  • Tuesdays from 6:15 PM to 6:45 PM
  • Fridays from 6:15 PM to 6:45 PM

Each participant may register for only one of the two session options available for their specific grade group.

All classes are capped at 15 swimmers per session to maintain safe instructor-to-student ratios.

Registration Fees, Family Discounts, and How to Sign Up

The registration fee for the five-week swim lesson program is $175.00 for the first child. For families enrolling more than one child, the second child is eligible for a discounted rate of $125.00, and the third child is free. These discounts apply only to siblings.

Registration is available online through the City of Bayonne’s CapturePoint registration portal at:
https://register.capturepoint.com/CityofBayonne

In order to complete registration, parents must add their child’s name to their account. This can be done by logging in, selecting “View Account”, and adding the child’s name before finalizing the registration.

All registrants must be Bayonne residents, and this program is not open to non-residents.

For questions about registration or further information, parents may call the Division of Recreation at 201-858-6127 or email [email protected].

Additional Information About the Division of Recreation and Pool Access

The Bayonne Division of Recreation operates under the Department of Municipal Services. The mission of the Division is to enhance the quality of life for all Bayonne citizens by offering high-quality recreation and cultural programs that address the needs of all segments of the community.

The Recreation Division also issues municipal ID cards. These are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, except on holidays. On Tuesdays, the office offers extended hours from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM, also excluding holidays.

The DiDomenico Municipal Pool, where all swim lessons will take place, operates on a daily summer schedule from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, beginning at the end of the school year and continuing through Labor Day, weather permitting. If the weather is poor, the pool may be closed. In certain cases, extended hours may be announced, though these will be communicated separately by the Division.

Mayor Ravi Bhalla Linked to 247 Parking and Traffic Cases in Hoboken

By
Moses Lookman
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Mayor Ravi Bhalla

As Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla runs for a New Jersey Assembly seat, he is facing criticism after public records revealed he was named in nearly 250 parking and traffic violations since 2005. Most of these cases took place while Bhalla served as either a city councilman, beginning in 2009, or as mayor, a position he has held since 2017.

The complaint was filed just two weeks before the June 10 Democratic primary, in which Bhalla is competing in a six-way race for two Assembly seats in the 32nd Legislative District. It questions whether the mayor received special treatment in court and whether proper legal procedures were followed.

Key Takeaways
  • Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla has been named in 247 municipal court cases for parking and traffic violations dating back to 2005.
  • A legal complaint claims six tickets were dismissed improperly by Hoboken’s court without required transfers, possibly violating court procedures.
  • The allegations surfaced just days before Bhalla’s Democratic primary for a New Jersey Assembly seat in the 32nd District.

Court Records Show Nearly 250 Tickets Since 2005

According to court records listed on NJCourts.gov, Ravi Bhalla has been the defendant in approximately 247 municipal court cases. These cases include both parking and moving violations.

Some of the violations include:

  • Parking too close to a crosswalk
  • Parking at a fire hydrant
  • Parking at a bus stop
  • Parking in a school zone
  • Parking on sidewalks
  • Expired meters
  • Street cleaning violations
  • Driving without a license
  • Driving with a suspended license
  • Driving without proof of insurance
  • Driving or parking an unregistered vehicle
  • Failing to show license plates properly
  • Speeding
  • Disobeying traffic signals

There was also a DWI charge in Secaucus, but Bhalla was found not guilty in that case.

While many of the violations were minor, the high number of tickets and how some were dismissed have raised concerns.

Six Dismissed Tickets Cited in Legal Complaint

A formal complaint was sent by Georgina Giordano Pallitto, a lawyer certified by New Jersey as a criminal trial attorney.

She sent the complaint to:

  • Joshua Haber, U.S. Attorney’s Office
  • Theresa Hilton, New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice
  • Esther Suarez, Hudson County Prosecutor

Pallitto used court records to find that Bhalla had nearly 250 violations, and she focused on six recent tickets in her letter. These six tickets were issued between November 12, 2021, and October 28, 2023, and were all dismissed between November 22, 2023, and January 24, 2024, by the Hoboken Municipal Court.

Here are the details of those six cases:

  1. 847 Garden Street, prohibited parking on November 12, 2021 — dismissed November 22, 2023
  2. 105 1st Street, alternate side parking violation on April 6, 2023 — dismissed January 9, 2024
  3. 260 Newark Street, expired meter on May 31, 2023 — dismissed January 10, 2024
  4. 58 3rd Street, expired meter on August 18, 2023 — dismissed January 17, 2024
  5. 7 Newark Street, expired meter on October 20, 2023 — dismissed January 23, 2024
  6. 165 9th Street, parked in a crosswalk on October 28, 2023 — dismissed January 24, 2024

The total amount of fines and fees for these six tickets came to $320. All of the tickets were connected to a gray Mazda sedan with license plate K97NZL, which has since been repossessed by the car’s lessor and is no longer in Bhalla’s possession.

Complaint Says Court Procedure Was Not Followed

In her letter, Pallitto pointed out that, by law, tickets involving local officials should be moved out of their city’s municipal court to avoid a conflict of interest. This is because the mayor oversees city departments, including the court system. But in these six cases, that did not happen. All of the tickets were handled and dismissed by the Hoboken Municipal Court.

The complaint also says that in some of these cases, the tickets were dismissed months or even years after the deadline for court action had passed. One ticket was dismissed two years after it was issued, even though the system normally requires a suspension or warrant when a person fails to appear in court.

Pallitto also wrote that if the mayor gave his tickets to court employees or officers and asked them to “take care of it,” that could count as official misconduct under New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 2C:30-2). It might also break federal law, such as honest services fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1346, depending on the details.

Earlier Cases Were Handled Differently

The complaint compares the current ticket dismissals to how things were done in the past. For example, in 2012, when Bhalla was a city councilman, he was given tickets for driving with a suspended license, driving without proof of insurance, driving without a license, and making an improper turn.

Those tickets were moved to the Jersey City Municipal Court—not handled in Hoboken—and later dismissed for lack of prosecution. Pallitto argues this earlier case followed the correct process, unlike the six recent tickets she highlighted.

Bhalla’s Campaign Responds and Denies Special Treatment

In response to the complaint, Bhalla’s campaign spokesperson, Rob Horowitz, denied all wrongdoing. He said that Bhalla never asked for special treatment and never received any. According to Horowitz, the COVID-19 pandemic caused the court system to fall behind, and many old tickets, including some of Bhalla’s, were dismissed because they had been pending for more than 180 days.

Horowitz also questioned the timing of the complaint. He said it was a “political stunt” because it was sent just 12 days before the primary election. He described it as part of a “dirty tricks” campaign tied to the Hudson County political machine. He also pointed out that Pallitto, the attorney who wrote the letter, worked for the Hudson County Law Department and did not name the client she was representing.

A Competitive Democratic Primary with Political Tensions

The issue comes at a critical time in a highly contested election. Bhalla is one of six Democratic candidates running for two Assembly seats in New Jersey’s 32nd District. He is campaigning with Katie Brennan, a housing advocate from Jersey City.

They face strong opposition from candidates supported by the Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO), including Jennie Pu, the Hoboken Library Director, and Crystal Fonseca, a Jersey City department supervisor. Two other candidates in the race are Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez and Jersey City Councilman Yousef Saleh. Ramirez and Saleh are backed by Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, who is running for governor.

Over the past few months, there have been many attack ads aimed at Bhalla. One recent flyer came from the Hudson Votes Project, a political action committee that supports Pu and Fonseca. The group listed a mailbox at a UPS Store in Jersey City’s Newport area as its address. The flyer included a news image highlighting Bhalla’s ticket record.

In another past incident, in March 2023, Bhalla was seen parking at a bus stop to buy coffee from Starbucks, which sparked public criticism on social media; people called it a case of a public official not following the same rules as everyone else.

No Confirmed Investigations Yet

At this point, no law enforcement agency has confirmed whether they are investigating Bhalla. The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office declined to comment, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office did not reply to requests for information. A spokesperson for the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office said they could not confirm or deny whether there is a criminal investigation.

Pallitto’s letter ends by urging the authorities to review the records and decide whether there was any wrongdoing. She says the public’s trust in the legal system depends on fair treatment for everyone, no matter their position.

New York Rangers Linked to Vladislav Gavrikov in Early Offseason Rumors

By
Paulius Kundzelevicius
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Rangers May Target Vladislav Gavrikov

The New York Rangers missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2025, and now General Manager Chris Drury is expected to make changes. According to a report by Arthur Staple from The Athletic, the Rangers are one of several teams looking to change their roster before the new season. Other teams mentioned are the Buffalo Sabres, Seattle Kraken, and Utah Mammoth.

One player the Rangers are watching is Vladislav Gavrikov, a defenseman who played for the Los Angeles Kings this past season. Gavrikov will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2025. He is 6-foot-3 and weighs 220 pounds, and he shoots left. He has built a reputation as a strong defensive player who can handle a lot of minutes.

Key Takeaways
  • The Rangers are targeting free-agent defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov after missing the 2025 playoffs and trading Ryan Lindgren in March.
  • With only $8.4 million in cap space, New York must trade or release players like K’Andre Miller to afford Gavrikov’s expected $6.5–$7.5 million salary.
  • Only Igor Shesterkin, Adam Fox, and Artemi Panarin are considered untouchable, meaning major roster changes are likely ahead of July 1 free agency.

Gavrikov Had a Strong Season with the Kings

In the 2024–25 season, Gavrikov played 82 games and finished with five goals and 25 assists, totaling 30 points – only three points below his career high. He was especially good in the defensive zone. He had a plus-26 rating, which is the best of his career. His previous best was plus-12 during the 2022–23 season.

Gavrikov also averaged 23 minutes and 5 seconds of ice time per game, which was the most he has ever played in a season. He led the Kings in blocked shots with 140 and took just 28 penalty minutes. In the playoffs, he played six games, added two assists, and averaged 21 minutes per game, even though the Kings were knocked out in the first round by the Edmonton Oilers.

Rangers Need Cap Space to Make a Move

Right now, the Rangers have around $8.4 million in cap space, according to PuckPedia. Gavrikov is coming off a two-year, $11.75 million contract, which had an average cap hit of $5.875 million per season. Based on his strong season, he is expected to ask for a raise in free agency, possibly between $6.5 million and $7.5 million per year.

That means the Rangers would need to free up more space to afford him. At the same time, they still need to sign several restricted free agents, including Will Cuylle, Matt Rempe, Adam Edstrom, K’Andre Miller, and Zac Jones. Cuylle is likely the team’s top priority.

To create room for a player like Gavrikov, the Rangers may need to let some of these RFAs go or trade current players.

Miller, Kreider, and Zibanejad Could Be On the Move

Staple reported that the only players who are “untouchable” on the Rangers roster are Igor Shesterkin, Adam Fox, and Artemi Panarin, meaning all other players could be available in trades.

K’Andre Miller may be one of the most likely players to move. He is 25 years old and is coming off a contract that had a cap hit of $3.872 million. Although the Rangers hoped he would grow into a top-pair defenseman, that hasn’t happened yet. Reports say the team may be ready to trade him now to avoid losing him for nothing later; it could also give them the cap space to bring in Gavrikov.

Another player to watch is Chris Kreider, who scored 22 goals and 30 points last season. He missed 14 games and said on breakup day that he might need hand surgery this offseason. Kreider has a 15-team no-trade clause, which limits where he can be traded.

Mika Zibanejad is also a name in trade rumors. He has a full no-move clause and has said he wants to stay in New York. Still, Chris Drury has worked around such contract clauses in the past, so it’s not impossible that he could be moved if the right deal comes along.

Rangers Looking for a New Partner for Adam Fox

Back in March, the Rangers traded Ryan Lindgren to the Colorado Avalanche, and they haven’t found a permanent replacement to play on the top pair with Adam Fox. Gavrikov could be a good fit in that spot. He is known for being reliable on defense and has played top-four and even top-pair minutes before. His style of play could work well under the team’s new head coach, Mike Sullivan, who is known for coaching teams with strong defensive systems.

Kings May Try to Re-Sign Gavrikov Before July 1

The Los Angeles Kings, who traded for Gavrikov from Columbus during the 2022–23 season, would prefer to keep him. He was drafted 159th overall in 2015 by the Columbus Blue Jackets and has played 435 career NHL games between the Blue Jackets and Kings. In that time, he has scored 29 goals and 135 points.

Gavrikov has said he is open to signing a longer deal with the Kings, but the team’s new leadership, now run by Ken Holland, may have different plans. If no deal is made by July 1, Gavrikov will likely receive offers from several teams.

Other than the Rangers, teams that could be interested include the Buffalo Sabres, Seattle Kraken, and Utah Mammoth. These teams, like New York, are expected to be active in the offseason.

Every UCL Final Since 1993 Ranked: The Ultimate Breakdown of Champions League History

By
Paulius Kundzelevicius
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Every-UCL-Final-Since-1993-Ranked_FI

The UEFA Champions League final is the top match in European club football. Since its rebrand in 1992, each final has added a new chapter to the competition—some defined by drama and brilliance, others by caution or missed chances.

Paris Saint-Germain’s 5-0 win over Inter in the 2025 final, the biggest margin in Champions League final history, gave the club its first European title and set a new record on the biggest stage. Over more than three decades, these matches have featured many of the best soccer players in history, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Zinedine Zidane, Paolo Maldini, and Didier Drogba.

This list ranks every final from 1992–93 to 2024–25, based only on verified facts: results, goals, key performances, venues, and official records. Each entry is ordered from the least to the most memorable.

Key Takeaways
  • Paris Saint-Germain’s 5-0 win over Inter in 2025 is the biggest-ever Champions League final victory, a historic first title for the French club.
  • Liverpool’s comeback in 2005 remains the most dramatic final, with a 3-0 turnaround against AC Milan that still stuns soccer fans to this day.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for most goals in Champions League finals (4), while Carlo Ancelotti is the most successful coach with five titles.

33. 2003 – Juventus 0-0 AC Milan (AC Milan win 3-2 on penalties)

Venue: Old Trafford

The only goalless final since the 1992 rebrand. Shevchenko had a goal disallowed, while both Antonio Conte and Andrea Pirlo struck the woodwork. Carlo Ancelotti defeated the club that had sacked him two years earlier. Alessandro Nesta was described as formidable. After a goalless 120 minutes, Shevchenko scored the winning penalty for Milan.

32. 2021 – Manchester City 0-1 Chelsea

Venue: Porto

Kai Havertz scored just before half-time in a final marked by tight defending. Kevin De Bruyne started as a false nine and was forced off due to a facial injury before the hour mark. Havertz’s post-match interview included explicit language. It was the third meeting between the teams in six weeks.

31. 2004 – Porto 3-0 Monaco

Venue: Arena AufSchalke

Carlos Alberto opened the scoring with a volley. Deco scored next. Dmitri Alenichev completed the scoring. It was Jose Mourinho’s final game as Porto manager before moving to Chelsea.

30. 2000 – Real Madrid 3-0 Valencia

Venue: Stade de France

Fernando Morientes scored with a header. Steve McManaman then scored a volley, and Raul scored the third. Real Madrid won their eighth European title. Valencia was considered a clear underdog.

29. 2022 – Liverpool 0-1 Real Madrid

Venue: Stade de France

Vinicius Jr. scored the only goal from a Federico Valverde cross. Thibaut Courtois made multiple key saves and received a 9/10 rating from L’Equipe. UEFA was found primarily responsible for organizational and safety failures that caused disorder outside the stadium.

28. 2010 – Inter 2-0 Bayern Munich

Venue: Santiago Bernabeu

Diego Milito scored both goals—one an emphatic finish, the other a solo run. Wesley Sneijder assisted with the first goal. Franck Ribery missed the final due to suspension. Inter completed the treble.

27. 2023 – Manchester City 1-0 Inter

Venue: Ataturk Olympic Stadium

Rodri scored in the 68th minute. Federico Dimarco hit the crossbar. Ederson denied Romelu Lukaku with a point-blank save. It was Manchester City’s first Champions League title.

26. 2001 – Bayern Munich 1-1 Valencia (Bayern win 5-4 on penalties)

Venue: San Siro

Gaizka Mendieta scored a third-minute penalty. Santiago Canizares saved a penalty from Mehmet Scholl. Stefan Effenberg equalized from the spot. Oliver Kahn saved two penalties in the shootout.

25. 2020 – Paris Saint-Germain 0-1 Bayern Munich

Venue: Estadio da Luz

Kingsley Coman scored just before the hour mark. The final was played behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The first half featured multiple chances for both sides.

24. 1996 – Ajax 1-1 Juventus (Juventus win 4-2 on penalties)

Venue: Stadio Olimpico

Fabrizio Ravanelli scored in the 13th minute. Jari Litmanen equalized before halftime. Both goals stemmed from goalkeeping errors. Ajax were missing Frank Rijkaard (retired), Clarence Seedorf (transferred), Marc Overmars (injured), and Michael Reiziger (suspended).

23. 2019 – Tottenham 0-2 Liverpool

Venue: Wanda Metropolitano

Mohamed Salah scored a second-minute penalty. Divock Origi scored the second goal late in the match. Alisson made several saves to preserve the lead. Tottenham were playing in their first Champions League final.

22. 1993 – Marseille 1-0 AC Milan

Venue: Olympiastadion, Munich

Basile Boli scored just before halftime. Jean-Pierre Papin missed a second-half chance. Fabien Barthez made key saves. Marcel Desailly was instrumental in midfield and joined Milan after the final.

21. 2016 – Real Madrid 1-1 Atletico Madrid (Real win 5-3 on penalties)

Venue: San Siro

Sergio Ramos scored in the first half. Antoine Griezmann missed a penalty. Yannick Carrasco equalized. Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winning penalty.

20. 2007 – AC Milan 2-1 Liverpool

Venue: Olympic Stadium, Athens

Filippo Inzaghi scored twice—once via a deflection from an Andrea Pirlo free-kick, the second from a Kaka pass. Dirk Kuyt scored for Liverpool in the 89th minute.

19. 1998 – Juventus 0-1 Real Madrid

Venue: Amsterdam Arena

Predrag Mijatovic scored the winner. The match featured missed chances by Zidane, Davids, Raul, and Inzaghi. The pace was intense throughout.

18. 2024 – Borussia Dortmund 0-2 Real Madrid

Venue: Wembley Stadium

Julian Brandt, Karim Adeyemi, and Niclas Fullkrug had major chances in the first half. Fullkrug hit the post. Dani Carvajal scored in the 74th minute. Vinicius Jr. scored the second goal shortly afterward.

17. 1995 – Ajax 1-0 AC Milan

Venue: Ernst-Happel-Stadion

18-year-old Patrick Kluivert scored the only goal, assisted by Frank Rijkaard. Edwin van der Sar saved a volley from Marco Simone.

16. 2018 – Real Madrid 3-1 Liverpool

Venue: NSC Olimpiyskiy, Kyiv

Karim Benzema opened the scoring when Loris Karius threw the ball at his leg. Sadio Mane equalized. Gareth Bale scored an overhead kick and a long-range strike that Karius mishandled. Karius was later diagnosed with a concussion caused by Sergio Ramos.

15. 2012 – Chelsea 1-1 Bayern Munich (Chelsea win 4-3 on penalties)

Venue: Allianz Arena

Thomas Muller scored in the 83rd minute. Didier Drogba equalized with a header. Petr Cech saved an extra-time penalty from Arjen Robben. Drogba converted the winning penalty.

14. 1999 – Manchester United 2-1 Bayern Munich

Venue: Camp Nou

Mario Basler scored in the sixth minute. Teddy Sheringham equalized in the 91st minute. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer scored the winner in the 93rd minute. Roy Keane and Paul Scholes were suspended.

13. 2013 – Borussia Dortmund 1-2 Bayern Munich

Venue: Wembley Stadium

Mario Mandzukic scored the opener. Ilkay Gundogan equalized with a penalty. Arjen Robben scored the winner in the 89th minute.

12. 2015 – Juventus 1-3 Barcelona

Venue: Olympiastadion, Berlin

Ivan Rakitic scored in the third minute. Alvaro Morata equalized. Luis Suarez and Neymar added goals. Gianluigi Buffon made a key save from Suarez before conceding.

11. 2014 – Real Madrid 4-1 Atletico Madrid (AET)

Venue: Estadio da Luz

Diego Godin scored for Atletico. Sergio Ramos equalized in the 93rd minute. Gareth Bale, Marcelo, and Cristiano Ronaldo scored in extra time. Angel Di Maria played a key role in the comeback.

10. 2011 – Barcelona 3-1 Manchester United

Venue: Wembley Stadium

Pedro scored first. Wayne Rooney equalized. Lionel Messi and David Villa scored the second and third goals. Sir Alex Ferguson described Barcelona as “the best team I’ve faced.”

9. 1984 – Roma 1-1 Liverpool (Liverpool win 4-2 on penalties)

Venue: Stadio Olimpico

Phil Neal gave Liverpool the lead before Roberto Pruzzo equalized. The match went to penalties in Roma’s home stadium. Bruce Grobbelaar’s “spaghetti legs” antics distracted the Roma players. Liverpool won their fourth European Cup.

8. 2008 – Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea (Manchester United win 6-5 on penalties)

Venue: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

Cristiano Ronaldo scored with a header. Frank Lampard equalized. Didier Drogba was sent off. John Terry missed his penalty after slipping. Edwin van der Sar saved Nicolas Anelka’s final penalty.

7. 2017 – Juventus 1-4 Real Madrid

Venue: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice. Mario Mandzukic equalized with an overhead kick. Casemiro and Marco Asensio scored in the second half. Juan Cuadrado was sent off. Sergio Ramos was involved in the red card incident.

6. 2006 – Barcelona 2-1 Arsenal

Venue: Stade de France

Jens Lehmann was sent off after 18 minutes. Sol Campbell scored for Arsenal. Samuel Eto’o equalized. Juliano Belletti scored the winner. Henrik Larsson assisted both goals.

5. 1997 – Borussia Dortmund 3-1 Juventus

Venue: Olympiastadion, Munich

Karl-Heinz Riedle scored twice. Alessandro Del Piero pulled one back. Lars Ricken scored with a chip shortly after coming on. Paul Lambert marked Zinedine Zidane effectively.

4. 2002 – Bayer Leverkusen 1-2 Real Madrid

Venue: Hampden Park

Raul scored first. Lucio equalized. Zinedine Zidane scored the winner with a left-footed volley before halftime. Iker Casillas replaced an injured Cesar and made key saves.

3. 2009 – Barcelona 2-0 Manchester United

Venue: Stadio Olimpico

Samuel Eto’o scored early. Lionel Messi added the second with a header. Cristiano Ronaldo had several speculative shots. Barcelona completed the treble.

2. 1994 – AC Milan 4-0 Barcelona

Venue: Olympic Stadium, Athens

Massaro, Savicevic, and Desailly scored. Savicevic’s lob came after Miguel Angel Nadal’s mistake. Fabio Capello called the performance “perfection.”

1. 2005 – AC Milan 3-3 Liverpool (Liverpool win 3-2 on penalties)

Venue: Ataturk Olympic Stadium

Paolo Maldini scored after 50 seconds. Hernan Crespo added two goals before halftime. Steven Gerrard, Vladimir Smicer, and Xabi Alonso scored within six minutes to level the game. Jerzy Dudek made a double save from Shevchenko in extra time and saved the decisive penalty in the shootout. Liverpool won their fifth European Cup.

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