While March Madness betting activity increased by 60%, according to a recent Optimove research, an astounding 97% of those bets came from current clients rather than new ones.
Optimove is a CRM and player engagement technology provider for online gaming and sports betting businesses.
Earlier this month, March Madness came to an end as Michigan defeated UConn 69-63 in the men's national championship game. This defensive victory was Michigan's first since 1989.
The men's and women's NCAA Tournament brackets, which included 68 teams and 67 games apiece, were made public in the middle of March.
According to the American Gaming Association (AGA), March Madness usually generates enormous betting volumes, in the billions of dollars across regulated sportsbooks, largely because to the upsets, Cinderella stories, and fluctuations in play.
The main takeaway for sportsbook operators, according to the Optimove Insights Analysis, March Madness 2026 Report, is that the tournament serves as a crucial retention opportunity rather than attracting new bettors.
97% of players who made deposits during every phase of March Madness up until the men's championship game on April 6 were current patrons.
First-time depositors made up only 3% of the base during the tournament's largest betting spike, a 60% increase in betting activity on the men's side First and Second Round weekend (March 19–22). Throughout the entire competition, that ratio remained constant.
Unsurprisingly, there was a 51% increase above baseline in the Final Four (April 4) and a 41% increase in the Elite Eight portion of the competition.
There was an 18% increase in betting during the quarterfinals, or Sweet 16, which featured fewer games per day but more intense contests.
According to the survey, operators who prioritize targeted re-engagement, loyalty awards, and personalized promotions will reap significant benefits.
The AGA predicted just before the tournament began that Americans would wager $3.3 billion on March Madness, on both the men's and women's tournaments, via legal sportsbooks. However, the event's betting volume statistics has not yet been made public.
Yahoo Sports reports that during the first two days of March Madness (men's and women's), prediction market Kalshi generated $1.2 billion in trade volume.
In an attempt to temporarily prevent New York from implementing its sports betting regulations again..
Even the simplest rumor may cause a stir during the NBA's midsummer quiet. LeBron James and a Miami ..
We give you advice on how to get the most enjoyment out of your gaming, find the best casinos, play games, learn everything there is to know about playing online slots, and take advantage of some alluring bonuses.
A casino promotion is a great way to increase patronage and frequency of visits. For illustration, a casino might give away free gifts or prizes to recent customers. It might also consider using other channels to spread the word about how to win at casinos. Current customers may also be rewarded with seasonal sales incentives. These kinds of promotions can boost client loyalty, but make sure to read the guidelines before participating in any promotional activity.
© Slotilla 2026
