DraftKings Stock Rises on ESPN Partnership, Signaling Growth in Sports Betting Sector
DraftKings shares surged following its newly announced exclusive partnership with ESPN, replacing Penn Entertainment as the sports network's official sportsbook provider. The deal positions DraftKings to power ESPN's mobile betting interface starting December, leveraging the network's massive audience to expand its market reach.
Disney-owned ESPN terminated its prior arrangement with Penn Entertainment ahead of schedule, underscoring the competitive dynamics in the rapidly evolving sports betting landscape. "This collaboration aligns two industry leaders," said DraftKings CEO Jason Robins, emphasizing the technological integration planned for ESPN's platform.
The MOVE reflects ESPN's strategy to deepen engagement through integrated betting features while avoiding direct gambling operations—a stance consistent with parent company Disney's policies. Penn Entertainment's ESPN Bet, launched just last year after rebranding Barstool Sportsbook, now faces disrupted momentum.