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Gambling in the USA

NBA Conference Semis: this week’s betting market movers and shakers from Cloudbet

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For all intents and purposes, it was a hell of a first round in the NBA playoffs. There were series sweeps (adios Philadelphia, adios Indiana) and a couple that went all the way (hello Houston, hello Denver).

There were buzzer-beaters and phenomenal scoring efforts heralding the emergence of the game’s next superstars (see Doncic, L., Murray, J.) as well as heart-breaking individual efforts that ultimately came to naught (see Mitchell, D.).

The game’s best-known player (see James, L.) rediscovered his imperious form, while the reigning MVP (Antetokounmpo, G.) needed a first-game scare before eventually rolling over his scrappy first-round opponents.

In the midst of all that, there was a temporary halt to protest yet another police shooting in America. Yes, there has been no shortage of drama in the NBA bubble, even without the crowd support and the home-court advantages conferred to higher seeded teams. Arguably, the games have been more dramatic precisely for those reasons.

With the first round out of the way, it’s appropriate for Cloudbet’s trading experts to look at the big movers in the outright markets, as we continue to head into the next stage – the Conference Semifinals – of the most audacious sporting experiment ever undertaken.

Celtic pride

Title odds: 7.09/+609 (from 14.7/+1374 at the start of the first round)

The Celtics have replaced Milwaukee as the favourites to take the Eastern Conference title after sweeping Philadelphia in the first round and taking a 2-1 lead over the Toronto Raptors. Jayson Tatum has been a stud in the playoffs, leading his team with 27 points per game, with solid support from Kemba Walker and Jaylen Brown. They’ve certainly stepped up and for now are more than accounting for the injured Gordon Hayward’s absence.

Meanwhile, their current opponents, the Raptors, have defied expectations this season even without star guard Kawhi Leonard, who left for the Los Angeles Clippers after leading Toronto to the NBA title last year. The Raps stellar run looked to be faltering in the face of a seriously motivated Celtics unit, even though they’ve kept their hopes alive with a Game 3 win.

Still, that win required a buzzer-beating 3-pointer from OG Anunoby, in a game where Boston looked a little too casual. Expect the Celtics to reapply themselves, and with Raps All-Star Pascal Siakam still in lacklustre form, Boston may just have the edge in talent.

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The markets slightly favour Boston to win the series in six games (3.5/+250) and move on to the conference finals.

 

Milwaukee Falters

Title odds: 7.79/+679 (from 3.52/+252 at the start of the first round)

The Bucks, title favorites for much of this year, have had a less than stellar bubble experience, and they’ve been big drifters in the past week. They’ve won just 7 out of their 15 games since the season restarted, a far cry from their 77% win rate during the regular season – and they’ve now lost the two opening games of their series against the Miami Heat.

There are now indications in the market that Milwaukee gets put out this round. The line on a Heat series win is now 1.57 (-173), compared with 2.39 (+139) for the Bucks.

Commentators have questioned Milwaukee’s ability to defend strong 3-point shooting teams and their ability to close out tight games. They’ve suffered from sloppy ball handling, giving them the second-highest turnover rate among teams in this year’s playoffs.

Don’t discount the star power: Giannis Antetokounmpo is a clear favourite to win his second-straight league MVP award, and he’ll do everything he can to give the Bucks their first title since 1974. He’ll need much more help from the likes of Eric Bledsoe and Khris Middleton, who have been inconsistent on the offensive end.

Antetokounmpo said as much after his team’s tight Game 2 loss against the Heat: “It’s about us. It’s always gonna be about us. That’s why we practice. That’s why we go through our game plan. That’s why we’ve got to come out and play harder,” he told reporters.

 

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Miami heats up

Title odds: 8/+700 (from 29.4/+2846 at the start of the first round)

The Heat’s line has improved significantly after they swept Indiana 4-0 in the first round and kept their streak going against the Bucks. Miami cornerstone Jimmy Butler is playing close to his All-Star best, in spite of an indifferent (and very tight) Game 2 against Milwaukee.

Still, that game brought home how strong his supporting cast has been during these playoffs. This is a line-up that outgunned Indiana by an average margin of 10.5 points per match, and includes Duncan Robinson, who is fifth in the league for made 3-pointers this season.

Did we mention earlier that the Bucks have trouble defending 3s? The Heat made 37.9% of their regular-season attempts from beyond the arc, the second-highest rate in the league.

They can certainly pour on the points on a good day, but so can the Bucks. The key for Miami will be how they handle Antetokounmpo defensively, while keeping half an eye on his supporting cast to make sure they don’t light up. The Bucks know firsthand that a comeback is possible: Last year, they won the first two games against Toronto in the conference finals before losing four straight. Miami would do well to take heed – this series is far from over.

We the West

Los Angeles Clippers title odds: 3.14/+214 (from 3.84/+284 before the first round)

Los Angeles Lakers title odds: 3.54/+254 (from 3.77/+277)

While not a massive improvement in their lines, it’s worth just talking about the two LAs because of their star-studded line-ups, and because they’re favoured to face each other in the Western Conference finals.

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The Clippers were efficient and effective in dispatching Dallas in the first round, even through injury and Covid-related personnel issues. Kawhi Leonard is the highest scorer of all players left in the playoffs, and his Clippers have averaged more points than any other unit in the postseason.

The Clippers are well rested compared with current opponents Denver, which had to survive a bruising 7-game series against Utah. LA are boosted by the return of guard Patrick Beverley from a calf injury, who will play big defensive minutes shadowing Denver stud Jamal Murray.

With all this in mind, markets favour the Clippers to prevail over the Nuggets in the current round. LA thumped Denver by 23 points in Game 1 of their series.

Meanwhile, after early bubble yips, the Lakers rediscovered their offense in their first-round 4-1 wine over Portland. GOAT contender Lebron James lifted his game when it mattered, as he has done frequently in his career. He’s currently the playoffs’ assists leader, with 10 dimes per game, while he and running mate Anthony Davis are in the top 10 for scoring.

The Lakers averaged 117 points in the Portland series, after posting 106 per game in the 8 regular season games in the bubble. They go up against a Houston Rockets team that can also score by the truckload, but is coming off a 7-game series against Oklahoma City. Rocket guard Russell Westbrook has been struggling with form and a thigh injury. All of that means the Lakers are heavy favourites (1.15/-654) to beat Houston (5.48/+448).

 

Results and odds are current as of 8am UTC on Friday 4 September

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Gambling in the USA

NEW YORK CASINO IN MEXICO WELCOMES CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES FROM ZITRO

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The renowned Mexican operator Logrand has installed Zitro’s new CONCEPT cabinets and a selection of its latest games at the New York Casino in Monterrey.

Building on its global success, the CONCEPT cabinet line stands out for its Magic Lighting, immersing players in a synchronized light display, resulting in a unique sensory experience. Furthermore, the cabinet’s large Screen Deck blends comfort with intuitive functionality, optimizing the experience for players and operational teams.

The installation of the CONCEPT cabinets is complemented by the addition of the medieval-themed multi-game Legendary Sword, in which players can double their prizes through unique mechanics with the help of a magic sword.

On the other hand, Fairyland Quest takes players to an enchanted forest where Magic Mushrooms give access to a different bonus each, while a friendly Fairy will give a special bonus that doubles the playing area.

Juan David Baracaldo, Director of Operations and Product, highlighted: “The addition of Zitro’s CONCEPT cabinets is a great step to continue offering unique and high-quality experiences to our players. The unique combination of technology, spectacular graphics, and the experience these cabinets offer will further elevate our casino’s entertainment offering.”

For his part, Johnny Ortiz Viveiros, founder of Zitro, expressed: “We are very excited to strengthen our partnership with Logrand, a strategic partner that shares our vision of providing exceptional gaming experiences. The new CONCEPT cabinets and games like Legendary Sword and Fairyland Quest are just the beginning of what will transform how players enjoy entertainment.”

 

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Gambling in the USA

Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack

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Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.

“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,” said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.

The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.

“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,” said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.

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Gambling in the USA

BMM INNOVATION GROUP SHOWCASES ITS SUPPORT FOR TRIBAL SOVEREIGNTY AT INDIAN GAMING CONFERENCE & EXPO MARCH 31 – APRIL 3 AT SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER

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Company to sponsor, attend, and speak at the San Diego, California show.

BMM Innovation Group (“BMM,” “BIG Group,” or “BIG”), a technology conglomerate focused on product compliance testing, cybersecurity solutions, and virtual training for the global gaming industry, today announced its sponsorship and participation in the Indian Gaming Association’s (“IGA”) annual IGA Conference & Expo, March 31-April 3 at the San Diego Convention Center.

With over three decades of experience supporting Tribal gaming, BIG will be on-site as sponsors, speakers, and attendees to reinforce the Company’s steadfast commitment to Tribal sovereignty and self-regulation.

Proud Partners in Tribal Progress

The BIG Group’s Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer Martin Storm said, “BMM proudly partners with Tribal governments, Tribal casinos, and Tribal gaming equipment and technology suppliers to advance Tribal sovereignty, self-determination, and economic development. We are honored to continue supporting the growth and integrity of Tribal gaming through our trusted product compliance services, world-class training and virtual education, and our cybersecurity solutions to protect Tribal enterprises.”

BMM’s long-standing relationships with Tribal gaming suppliers and regulators are at the heart of its mission. As active members of IGA and other key Tribal organizations, BIG is committed to elevating Tribal voices and ensuring Tribal interests remain at the forefront of industry growth.

BIG Group Shares Thought Leadership on Conference Panels and Trainings

  • In addition to sponsoring and attending, the BIG Group’s expert thought leaders will speak and provide in-person training at the conference:
  • Tuesday, April 1 at 9 am: Innovation vs. Regulation: Keep Pace with Emerging Gaming Technologies – Sean Mason, Senior Director of Tribal Services
  • Tuesday, April 1 at 4 pm: Gaming and Cyber Risk Best Practices – Mitigate Risk and Sleep Better at Night – Heather Lee, Senior Director of Sales for BIG Cyber
  • Wednesday, April 2 at 9 am: Level III Commissioner Certification Training – Peter Nikiper, Director of Technical Compliance

Unmatched Expertise in Product Compliance and Certification

As a trusted testing laboratory for Tribal gaming jurisdictions across North America, BMM’s focus is fairness, integrity, and security in every gaming environment. IGA attendees are invited to connect with BMM experts to learn more about the Company’s comprehensive product compliance programs.

Education & Training for Long-Term Success

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BIG continues to empower Tribal gaming employees through exclusive education and training programs, including free access to RG24seven Virtual Training. These knowledge-sharing initiatives are designed to support responsible gaming, regulatory compliance, and the long-term sustainability of Tribal gaming operations.

Cybersecurity Solutions Tailored for Tribal Gaming

The BIG Group is focused on bolstering cybersecurity defenses for Tribal enterprises through its BIG Cyber services, which includes penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, PCI:DSS evaluations, and a host of managed security services featuring CYREBRO’s Security Operations Center, KnowBe4’s security awareness training, and Maxxsure’s risk management platform.

 

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