DraftKings is a US-based company best known for popularizing daily fantasy sports, which later expanded into a full mobile sportsbook offering online sports betting, and further into casino-style products in states where that’s legal. If you’ve heard the name mentioned alongside esports betting and aren’t sure exactly what it is, this guide covers the basics.
How DraftKings started
DraftKings launched as a daily fantasy sports platform, letting users draft rosters of real athletes and compete for prizes based on those players’ statistical performance over a single game or short stretch of games. That format - fast, skill-based, and legally distinct from traditional sports betting in several US states - is what built its initial user base.
What DraftKings does now
Since sports betting was legalized in a growing number of US states following a 2018 Supreme Court decision, DraftKings expanded into a licensed mobile sportsbook, letting users bet directly on game outcomes, player props, and other traditional betting markets alongside its original fantasy sports product. In states where DraftKings holds the appropriate gambling license, this operates as a fully regulated sportsbook.
Where esports fits in
Esports betting is a smaller part of DraftKings’ overall sportsbook, generally surfacing around major, high-profile tournaments rather than as a constant daily offering. It sits alongside DraftKings’ much larger coverage of traditional sports like American football, basketball, and baseball. For bettors specifically interested in esports, DraftKings’ esports section is worth understanding as one option among several rather than a specialized esports platform.
Key things to know
It’s state-regulated. DraftKings operates as a licensed sportsbook only in states where sports betting is legal and where it holds an appropriate license - availability varies across the US.
It combines multiple products. Daily fantasy sports, traditional sports betting, and (in some states) online casino games all exist under the same DraftKings platform and app.
Esports coverage is limited relative to dedicated operators. If esports betting specifically is your priority, it’s worth comparing DraftKings’ esports section against dedicated esports-first sportsbooks to see which offers the coverage depth you’re looking for.
This guide is independent educational content and not an endorsement of DraftKings. We are not affiliated with the company, do not process bets or payments, and recommend confirming current legal availability and product offerings directly on DraftKings’ own site for your specific state.