Casino Pauma Brings Sports Betting to Pauma Valley With the Launch of Pauma Sportsbook
Published
Sports fans in North San Diego County now have a new place to bet on the games. Casino Pauma, owned and operated by the Pauma Band of Luiseño Indians, opened the Pauma Sportsbook on November 12 with a ribbon cutting on the casino floor.
For the Tribe, the launch is about more than a new gaming product. Chairman Temet Majel described it as a decision made by a sovereign nation for its own future.
"As a sovereign Tribal Nation, the Pauma Band has the responsibility to make decisions that support our people, strengthen our government, and guide the future of our enterprises," said Chairman Majel. "This sportsbook represents the Tribe's continued commitment to self-determination and to creating opportunities that serve the Pauma Band for generations to come."
A first bet from a Chargers favorite
Former San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman placed the first official wager, joined by Chairman Majel and General Manager Oscar Garcia. Merriman picked his old team: he bet on the Los Angeles Chargers to beat the Baltimore Ravens on the road on Monday, November 16.
Guests could start betting right after the ribbon cutting, just in time for Thursday Night Football. Merriman then hosted a private meet and greet for invited guests in The Grove.
"Today marks a proud and historic moment for Casino Pauma and the Pauma Tribe," said Garcia. "This accomplishment is the result of tremendous collaboration between Tribal leadership, our regulatory partners, our operational teams, and our sportsbook partners."
How betting works at Casino Pauma
The sportsbook is built around eight self-service kiosks on the casino floor. Guests:
Pick a game at any kiosk.
Place a bet with cash.
Get a printed ticket.
Cash winning tickets at the casino cage.
Mobile betting is coming this winter. It will work only while guests are on Casino Pauma property.
SCCG's role
SCCG Management, the Las Vegas advisory firm, worked with Casino Pauma on planning and launching the sportsbook.
"For more than 35 years in this industry, I’ve watched tribal nations lead on gaming when they’re given room to do it. Casino Pauma’s historic launch demonstrates what is possible when tribal sovereignty and a lawful, regulated gaming framework come together. The Tribe’s inherent sovereignty is the foundation of this achievement, and we’re proud to stand beside Casino Pauma as it makes history," said Stephen A. Crystal, Founder and CEO of SCCG.