Content Integration

theScore Bet Illinois Review

theScore Bet returned to the US market in December 2025 when PENN Entertainment ended its ESPN BET licensing deal. The Illinois operation is partnered with Ameristar East Chicago and integrates tightly with the theScore mobile sports media app — combining news, scores, and betting in one experience.

Overall Rating4.4/5 ★
LaunchedNovember 2023 (as ESPN BET, rebranded December 2025)
PartnerAmeristar Casino East Chicago
Per-Bet Fee$0.25 per wager
Bet $10, Get $100 in Bonus Bets
If first bet wins · rebranded from ESPN BET Dec 2025 · Ameristar East Chicago retail partner · valid through July 31, 2026
See Bonus Details →

Ratings Breakdown

overall
4.4
bonus
4.4
app
4.6
markets
4.3
odds
4.2
support
4.3

Pros

  • theScore app integration — news + betting in one place
  • PENN myChoice rewards integration
  • Bet $10 Get $250 welcome offer
  • $0.25 per-bet fee
  • Strong NHL and CFL coverage

Cons

  • Brand still rebuilding post-ESPN BET
  • Same-game parlay tool basic
  • Live betting feel slower than DK/FD

Key Specs

Parent Company
PENN Entertainment (Nasdaq: PENN)
Retail Location
theScore Bet Sportsbook at Ameristar East Chicago
Payment Methods
PayPal, Online Bank Transfer (ACH), Debit Card, Play+, Cash at Ameristar
Min Deposit
$10
Min Bet
$1 (plus $0.25 per-bet fee)
Max Bet
Up to $10,000
Withdrawal Speed
24-72 hrs
App Rating
4.3★

Welcome Bonus

theScore Bet's relaunch offer is Bet $10, Get $250 in Bonus Bets — guaranteed regardless of result. One of the strongest signup deals in IL at the moment.

Mobile App & UX

App rating: 4.6★ iOS / 4.2★ Android. The unique angle: theScore's sports news app embeds the sportsbook directly, so you can pivot from reading about an injury to placing a wager in two taps.

Sports & Markets

All majors plus deep NHL and CFL coverage (theScore's Canadian roots). Player props average.

Banking & Payouts

$10 minimum deposit. PayPal/Play+ instant. ACH 3-5 business days.

Customer Support

24/7 live chat. PENN myChoice members can request VIP host support.

Promotions & Loyalty

PENN myChoice unifies play across theScore Bet, Hollywood Casino properties, and partner properties. Tier upgrades earn free play and complimentary stays at Hollywood Joliet, Aurora, and Argosy Alton.

Verdict

theScore Bet appeals to bettors who already use theScore for sports news. Best for: theScore app users, NHL/CFL bettors, PENN property regulars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is theScore Bet the same as ESPN BET?

theScore Bet is the rebrand — same product and operator (PENN), new name after the ESPN licensing deal ended in December 2025.