Illinois Fans Cannot Bet on Their Own Team in the Final Four

In Illinois, people can place bets on most sports online. But there is one big exception: the state’s own college basketball teams are off limits for wagering. The law says you cannot bet on any in‑state NCAA school, no matter the game or championship. So when Illinois’ University of Illinois faces Connecticut in the Final Four, bettors can’t pick the Illini. DraftKings and other sites follow this rule. Only three teams are allowed for the National Championship bet, and Illinois is not one of them. The ban was written into law when sports betting opened up in 2020.Since then, Illinois has earned more than $59 million from legal betting each year. Some people worry the restriction might hurt the state’s economy. Others say it protects fans from gambling problems, especially young adults. Even “prop” bets—creative side wagers like a return of a former mascot—are prohibited if they involve Illinois teams. There is one loophole: fans can drive to neighboring states with open sportsbooks and place a bet on the Illini there. The University of Illinois has no plan to change the law right now.