BetMGM Poker to share Michigan, New Jersey player pools

BetMGM Poker has officially merged its online player pools in Michigan and New Jersey becoming the third online poker site to share players between the two states.

BetMGM filed a request for shared player liquidity with the Michigan Gaming Control Board earlier this year and was granted approval under the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement this month.

“This authorization represents a significant step forward in the development of online gaming within our state boundaries,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said in a release. “We are confident that the partnership with BetMGM will enhance the gaming experience for Michigan players and drive growth in the industry.”

To celebrate the launch of shared players between the two states BetMGM will host the BetMGM Poker Online Championships starting on November 17. The championships will run until December 1 with $2 million in guaranteed prize pools.

“This is a landmark day for our poker product as we combine player pools in select markets,” BetMGM Gaming VP Angus Nisbet said in a release. “With the introduction of shared liquidity, we’ve listened to players’ desire for more games and larger prize pools. By showcasing our best-in-class omnichannel experience — spanning property, sports betting and online casino — we’re committed to providing an unparalleled poker experience for our players.”

Michigan joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement in 2022, joining forces with New Jersey, Nevada, Delaware, and West Virginia. PokerStars and WSOP.com also currently share players between Michigan and New Jersey. Despite being members of the agreement Delaware and West Virginia have not launched online poker in their states.

The Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement is expected to add at least one new member in 2025 with Pennsylvania in active negotiations to join following a directive from Governor Josh Shapiro. BetMGM, PokerStars, and WSOP.com are all active in Pennsylvania along with Borgata Poker.