PLAINS TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- Pennsylvania's casinos have a billion reasons to be happy this year.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board says since legal sports betting launched at casinos across the state last November, $1,165,194, 398 has been spent on wagers.
Sports fans here say they were thrilled when this opened at the casino.
“It's beautiful, I come here basically every day,” said Christopher Musti from Scranton. “It relieves a lot of stress out of my life as far as something to do because there's really not much to do in this area.”
“People love to gamble with sports, plain and simple answer, no other explanation for it. We love to gamble on sports,” said Kenneth McCloud from Wilkes-Barre.
Just this month, sports betting brought in $316,468,294 statewide; a 31 percent increase from the previous month. $4.3 million of that was placed on bets at Mohegan Sun Pocono.
“It's more convenient. And it's fun and I like to put in bets,” said Jay Lemoncelli from West Pittston.
Many said sports betting is their preferred type of gambling, saying they feel there's less risk and it makes watching the games all the more exciting.
“Oh, absolutely, that's what makes it fun,” said Lemoncelli.
“Once I watch a game, I'm into now because I got some money on it. So I cheer, a little more inspiration," laughed McCloud.
“Your money lasts longer, it's a lot better, I like the action here between all the sports channels they have,” said Musti.
Mohegan Sun officials say they will be adding five additional sports wagering kiosks due to demand.