888 Holdings approved as Hannahville tribe's internet sports betting provider

(PRESS RELEASE) -- The Michigan Gaming Control Board has approved 888 Holdings’ VHL, Michigan LLC as the new platform provider for the Hannahville Indian Community’s internet sports betting site effective at 10 a.m. Wednesday, 7 September. The Hannahville tribe entered an agreement with 888 Holdings after TwinSpires, the original platform provider, announced earlier this year its plans to exit the business. The tribe operates Island Resort and Casino in Harris, Mich.

“The Hannahville tribe is the first operator in Michigan to change platform providers since internet gaming and sports betting began here in January 2021,” said Henry Williams, MGCB executive director. “The tribe has found another experienced partner, and I wish them continued success.”

The site will operate under the Sports Illustrated brand name. At this time, the tribe and 888 Holdings have requested the MGCB to authorize internet sports betting only. They likely will seek approval for internet gaming later this year. TwinSpires will no longer be offering online sports betting or online casino services.

The Hannahville Indian Community was among 10 licensees initially authorized by the MGCB to launch both forms of internet gaming in Michigan on 22 January 2001. In mid-April, the MGCB authorized the state’s 15th internet gaming and sports betting operator. Licenses by law are limited to the commercial casinos and federally recognized tribes in Michigan.