Legal sports betting in Pennsylvania begins

FISHTOWN (WTXF) - Place your bets. No need to travel to Las Vegas or even Atlantic City, as two Pennsylvania casinos are taking wagers. A move that could bring in billions.

"Hello, I'm going to take 500 for the Philadelphia Flyers to win on December 14," said George Fill.

And, with that $500 bet, Fill makes history at Sugarhouse Casino, as one of the first to place a legal sports bet in the state of Pennsylvania.

"Obviously, Las Vegas has been making a lot of money off this for a long time. And to bring it back home and a lot of people don't have to fly away to bet on their Eagles, Flyers and Sixers," explained Fill.

Sugarhouse is one of three PA casinos opening sports books Thursday. They are taking live bets on anything from hockey, to football, soccer and hoops.

"Philadelphians have been waiting for this day for a long time," said Evan Davis, Vice President of Sugarhouse Casino.

For novices like Fox 29's Chris O'Connell, there is a learning curve and easy to fill out forms.

"You are basically getting 165 for every 100 you bet. Right," said Davis.

And, there is help in case people need the help.

"Kinda nervous. It's my first bet here," said O'Connell.

After a little research, O'Connell was ready to make a legal bet.

"Chargers money line for $10.00," O'Connell said.

The sports book was busy all day, which brings up the question is the local bookie going out of business?

"This is a way to offer sports gamblers a regulated product. And, to generate some tax revenues for the Commonwealth, as well," explained Davis.

Philadelphia area handicapper Jeff Nadu says be smart when betting.

"Do some research. Be a better bettor. Go find resources to help you be a better sports bettor. It's your money, at the end of the day. It's real money, not Monopoly money," Nadu states.