Story perspectives

Las Vegas Bets Big on March Madness Amid Declining Tourism

3/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Las Vegas is ramping up efforts to attract tourists during March Madness, hosting watch parties.
The American Gaming Association estimates Americans will wager $3.3 billion on these tournaments, with Nevada seeing activity.
Las Vegas faces challenges, with visitor numbers down 7.5% in 2025 and gaming revenue down more than 11% in early 2026.
Robby Starbuck, host of The Robby Starbuck Show, says younger generations favor online betting, hurting traditional casinos.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Supreme Court's 2018 ruling in Murphy v. NCAA declared the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act unconstitutional, allowing states to legalize sports betting. This decision followed New Jersey's long struggle, beginning in 2011, to overturn the ban. By 2025, Americans are projected to wager $3.3 billion on March Madness, highlighting the significant shift in the gambling landscape and challenges for traditional casinos.

1 of 2

Story summary

Las Vegas is ramping up efforts to attract tourists during March Madness, hosting watch parties.
The American Gaming Association estimates Americans will wager $3.3 billion on these tournaments, with Nevada seeing activity.
Las Vegas faces challenges, with visitor numbers down 7.5% in 2025 and gaming revenue down more than 11% in early 2026.
Robby Starbuck, host of The Robby Starbuck Show, says younger generations favor online betting, hurting traditional casinos.

1 / 2