Texas, a state known for its larger-than-life sports culture, has yet to fully embrace sports betting despite its vast interest in sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and more. As of 2025, the state has not legalized sports betting, leaving its residents with limited options for placing legal bets within the state. This has led many Texans to explore sports betting apps, which allow them to place wagers on their favorite teams using offshore platforms, while also looking to neighboring states for in-person or online betting opportunities. This article will explore the current state of sports betting apps in Texas, the legal landscape, available alternatives, and what the future of sports betting could look like in the Lone Star State.
The Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in Texas
In the United States, the 2018 Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association ruling allowed individual states to decide whether to legalize sports betting within their borders. Following the Supreme Court’s decision, many states rushed to pass laws allowing legal Texas Sports Betting Apps However, Texas has been slower to act. As of early 2025, sports betting remains illegal in Texas.
While there have been multiple attempts to introduce legislation aimed at legalizing sports betting, conservative lawmakers have generally opposed such bills. As a result, Texas residents are still unable to legally place bets on sporting events within the state. This reluctance to legalize sports betting stems from concerns over the social impacts of gambling, as well as opposition from some influential groups in the state.
However, the increasing pressure from professional sports teams and the potential for substantial revenue through taxation has led to growing support for legalization. If Texas legalizes sports betting in the future, it’s likely that the state will launch a regulated framework for both retail and mobile sports betting, including apps that Texans can use to place wagers from the comfort of their homes.
Until that happens, Texas residents have turned to alternatives, such as offshore sports betting apps, to place wagers legally from within the state.
Offshore Sports Betting Apps for Texans
While Texas has not legalized sports betting, many residents use offshore sports betting apps to place wagers on their favorite teams and athletes. These platforms operate outside of U.S. jurisdiction, meaning they are not regulated by Texas or federal laws but are still legal for U.S. residents to use.
Some of the most popular offshore sports betting apps that are accessible to Texans include:
1. Bovada
Bovada is one of the most well-established and trusted offshore sports betting platforms available to U.S. residents. The app offers a wide variety of sports to bet on, including major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, as well as niche sports like tennis, golf, and esports. Bovada’s mobile app is known for its smooth user interface, making it easy for both beginners and experienced bettors to place their wagers.
Texans appreciate Bovada for its competitive odds, generous bonuses, and ongoing promotions. The app supports various payment methods, including Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, which provide users with faster deposits and withdrawals. Bovada is a top choice for those seeking a secure, user-friendly sports betting app in Texas.
2. BetOnline
BetOnline is another popular offshore sportsbook that is easily accessible to Texans. The app offers a wide range of betting markets, from traditional sports like football and basketball to less common markets like rugby and motorsports. BetOnline also provides live betting, enabling users to place bets on events as they unfold in real-time.
BetOnline’s app is designed with the user experience in mind, offering a clean, intuitive interface that works well for both casual and advanced bettors. The platform is known for offering competitive odds, quick payouts, and a variety of bonuses, including a welcome bonus for new users.
3. MyBookie
MyBookie is a widely used sports betting app that has been serving the U.S. market for years. The app provides a broad selection of sports to bet on, including football, basketball, and baseball, as well as niche markets like boxing, golf, and MMA. MyBookie also offers live betting, which allows users to place wagers during the game, providing an exciting, dynamic betting experience.
Texans favor MyBookie for its easy-to-navigate interface, multiple deposit and withdrawal options, and excellent customer service. The app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users. MyBookie also offers regular promotions, such as free bets and deposit bonuses, which further enhance the user experience.
4. SportsBetting.ag
SportsBetting.ag is another offshore sportsbook that caters to U.S. bettors, including those in Texas. The app provides a variety of sports to bet on, including major leagues like the NFL and NBA, as well as international sports and events. SportsBetting.ag is particularly known for its live betting feature, which allows bettors to place wagers in real time as the action unfolds.
SportsBetting.ag also offers various deposit and withdrawal methods, including Bitcoin, ensuring that Texans can fund their accounts and withdraw their winnings with ease. The app is regularly updated with new features and promotions, keeping the betting experience fresh and exciting for users.
How to Use Sports Betting Apps in Texas
Using sports betting apps in Texas is relatively straightforward, although there are important considerations to keep in mind, particularly regarding the legal status of offshore sportsbooks. Here’s a general guide on how to use these platforms:
1. Choose a Reputable Offshore Sportsbook
First, you need to choose a reputable offshore sportsbook app that is accessible to Texas residents. As mentioned earlier, Bovada, BetOnline, MyBookie, and SportsBetting.ag are among the top platforms for Texans. Look for sportsbooks that have positive reviews, secure payment methods, and strong customer support.
2. Download the App
Once you’ve selected a sportsbook, download the app onto your smartphone or tablet. Most offshore sportsbooks are compatible with both iOS and Android devices. The download process is typically quick and easy.
3. Create an Account
After downloading the app, create an account by providing your personal details, such as your name, email address, and date of birth. Many sportsbooks require users to verify their identity before they can place bets or make withdrawals, so be prepared to provide documents such as a driver’s license or passport.
4. Deposit Funds
To place bets, you’ll need to deposit funds into your sportsbook account. Offshore sportsbooks offer various payment methods, including traditional options like credit and debit cards, as well as cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Cryptocurrencies are particularly popular because they offer faster transactions and greater privacy compared to traditional methods.
5. Place Bets
Once your account is funded, you can browse the sportsbook’s available events and place your bets. Most apps offer a variety of betting options, including point spreads, moneylines, totals (over/under), and prop bets. You can also place live bets while the game is in progress, taking advantage of shifting odds.
6. Withdraw Winnings
If your bets are successful, you can withdraw your winnings via the sportsbook’s available payment methods. Most offshore sportsbooks process withdrawals quickly, especially if you use cryptocurrency. Keep in mind that there may be withdrawal fees or limits based on the method you choose.
What to Consider Before Using Sports Betting Apps in Texas
While offshore sports betting apps provide an easy way for Texans to place bets, there are several factors to consider before getting started:
- Legality: Offshore sportsbooks are not regulated by U.S. authorities, so there is a level of risk involved. Ensure that the sportsbook you choose has a strong reputation for security and fairness.
- Security: Look for sportsbooks that offer secure encryption and payment processing to protect your personal and financial information.
- Payment Methods: Make sure the sportsbook offers a variety of deposit and withdrawal options, including secure methods like Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.
- Bonuses and Promotions: Many offshore sportsbooks offer bonuses for new users, such as free bets or deposit matches. Be sure to take advantage of these promotions when possible.
- Customer Support: Choose a sportsbook that offers reliable customer support, with multiple ways to get in touch, including live chat, email, or phone support.
The Future of Sports Betting in Texas
While sports betting remains illegal in Texas, the push for legalization is growing. Many lawmakers are starting to see the potential economic benefits of regulating sports betting, including generating tax revenue and creating jobs. If Texas eventually legalizes sports betting, it’s likely that the state will launch a regulated market for both retail and mobile sports betting apps.
In the meantime, offshore sports betting apps remain the best option for Texans who want to place legal bets on sports. As the legal landscape evolves, Texans can stay informed about any changes that could affect their ability to use sports betting apps in the future.
Conclusion
Sports betting apps provide a convenient way for Texans to place wagers on their favorite sports, even though sports betting is not yet legalized in the state. Offshore platforms like Bovada, BetOnline, MyBookie, and SportsBetting.ag offer a wide range of sports to bet on, as well as competitive odds, live betting options, and various payment methods. While Texans may continue to rely on offshore apps for now, the potential for legal sports betting in the state remains high, and the future of sports betting in Texas is something to watch closely.
