The National Hockey League’s (NHL) Arizona Coyotes has launched its newest digital sports betting platform, SaharaBets, in partnership with Meruelo Gaming.

In an interesting turn of events in the US sports wagering space, the new launch marks the first time a US sports team owner – in this case Alex Meruelo – has launched his own wagering enterprise.

Having subsequently formed a partnership between his two sporting entities, the Cuban-American businessman’s new betting platform will be made available to download from 12 January 2022.  

“SaharaBets brings the excitement and reputation of the iconic Sahara Las Vegas to sports fans here in Arizona,” commented SaharaBets President, Andrew Patterson. 

“As the sports betting landscape continues to evolve in the Valley, SaharaBets looks forward to collaborating with the Coyotes organization to engage and interact with sports fans in fun and unique ways.”

https://twitter.com/ArizonaCoyotes/status/1478734608116031490

Meruelo also holds business interests in banking, real estate, media, restaurants, food, casinos, and professional sports, whilst also working as the owner of Meruelo Group and Meruelo Media.

“The Coyotes are dedicated to providing innovative and entertaining experiences for our great fans,” added Coyotes President and CEO Xavier A. Gutierrez. 

“Our partnership with SaharaBets will offer next-level gaming experiences for fans who want to unleash their competitive spirit.”

The release shortly follows news of the teamo facing being locked out of their arena due to unpaid taxes in December, and the organisation had until the 20th of that month to pay its outstanding bill or it would face being locked out of the Gila River Arena.

Fortunately for the side, they made a payment of around $930,000 to ASM Global, which runs the Gila River Arena – sponsored by the Gila River Casinos tribal casino operator -that met the deadline.