Connecticut Lottery Corporation Unveils New Sports Betting Venue at Total Mortgage Arena in Bridgeport

Bridgeport, Connecticut - The Connecticut Lottery Corporation has exciting news for sports enthusiasts as they announce the opening of a brand-new retail sports betting facility at the Total Mortgage Arena in Bridgeport. This sports bar and sportsbook will be a hub of activity, operating daily, whether or not the arena has events scheduled.

Greg Smith, President and CEO of the Connecticut Lottery Corporation, expressed gratitude to local officials and the state delegation of Bridgeport for their support in this venture. He highlighted the strategic location of Total Mortgage Arena, known for hosting sports, music performances, and various events. The addition of the sportsbook will transform the arena into an everyday destination, boasting easy and ample parking access.

Zachary Klein, New York Islanders Executive Vice President and General Counsel, emphasized the collaborative effort involved in bringing sports betting to the venue. He anticipates that this move will enhance the entertainment experience for fans and the community.

Bridgeport's Mayor Joe Ganim lauded the establishment of the sportsbook, noting that it would complement the existing Entertainment District attractions and continue to draw residents and visitors to downtown Bridgeport.

State Representative Christopher Rosario, a key player in the legislation that made this venture possible, highlighted the economic opportunities that the sportsbook would create for Bridgeport and expressed gratitude to the Connecticut Lottery Corporation and the Bridgeport Islanders for their partnership.

State Representative Antonio Felipe, who played a pivotal role in the gaming legislation, sees the sportsbook as a diversifying force that will build on Bridgeport's growing entertainment scene.

The 2,500 square-foot sportsbook space, set to be constructed in the coming months, will offer a state-of-the-art sports experience. It will feature full food and drink service, over 10 TVs, an exterior patio, and bar seating. Bettors will have the convenience of placing wagers at one of a dozen kiosks or through teller windows.

Total Mortgage Arena, already a renowned sports and entertainment venue, hosts a wide array of events annually. These include music and entertainment shows, championship MMA and wrestling matches, motorsports experiences like Monster Jam, and large-scale sporting events such as the 2022 NCAA Women?s Basketball East Regionals and the 2023 NCAA Men?s Ice Hockey Regional. The addition of the sportsbook further solidifies Bridgeport's status as an entertainment hub. This sports betting venue at Total Mortgage Arena is part of the CLC's initiative, which includes authorized retail sportsbook locations across the state, including recent openings at Arooga?s in Shelton and the XL Center in Hartford.