ESPN Bet Ohio Sportsbook Review (Formerly Barstool)
ESPN Bet is a licensed Ohio sportsbook and a real rebrand — not just a new coat of paint. Barstool Sportsbook operated in Ohio from launch day (January 1, 2023) and converted to ESPN Bet in late 2023. Here's what that means for you as a bettor.
What Changed When Barstool Became ESPN Bet?
Penn Entertainment, the company behind Barstool, struck a deal with ESPN to license the brand. The app itself was rebuilt under the ESPN Bet name. The Barstool branding, logo, and persona disappeared. What stayed: the Ohio license issued by the Ohio Casino Control Commission, which means your account data and history carried over for existing users.
The ESPN name brings national recognition and a sports-media tie-in most other books can't match. Scores, news, and betting markets feel more connected than they did under Barstool's setup.
Is ESPN Bet a Good Ohio Sportsbook?
It's a solid mid-tier option. The app covers all the major Ohio sports markets — Browns, Bengals, Cavaliers, Guardians, Blue Jackets, college football, and more. You'll find moneyline bets, point spread betting, totals, and parlay bets including same-game parlays. Odds are displayed in standard American format (-110, +150, etc.).
Where it trails the top dogs: FanDuel and DraftKings still have bigger promo budgets and deeper alternate-line markets. ESPN Bet is trying to compete on brand loyalty rather than raw odds value.
How Do You Sign Up?
The process is the same as every licensed Ohio app. Download ESPN Bet, create an account, verify your identity (KYC), and confirm you're physically inside Ohio via geolocation. If you want a step-by-step walkthrough, check the guide on how to sign up for an Ohio sportsbook. You must be 21 or older. Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
What Deposit Methods Does ESPN Bet Accept in Ohio?
Most licensed Ohio books accept debit cards, PayPal, ACH/online banking, and prepaid Play+ cards. Exact ESPN Bet minimums and processing times vary; verify the current cashier page before depositing. For a broader look at funding options, see how to deposit and withdraw at Ohio sportsbooks.
Do You Pay Taxes on ESPN Bet Winnings?
Yes. Ohio sportsbook winnings are taxable as ordinary income at both the federal and state level. The IRS issues a W-2G when a single bet pays $600 or more and the winnings are at least 300× the wager. Federal withholding runs 24% above certain thresholds. Ohio state income tax applies too. Read the full breakdown on Ohio sportsbook taxes.
ESPN Bet vs. the Rest of the Ohio Market
Ohio has a competitive market. Before committing, it's worth comparing ESPN Bet side by side with other apps. The BetMGM Ohio Sportsbook Review covers one of the stronger alternatives, especially for casino crossover players. To see every licensed option at once, browse all licensed Ohio sportsbook apps.
Any Red Flags to Watch?
ESPN Bet is fully licensed by the OCCC — that's the key box to check. Avoid any site not on the OCCC's official registry; unlicensed offshore books carry real risk. More on that at why offshore sportsbooks are risky in Ohio. Also: geolocation must place you inside Ohio state lines to place a bet. VPNs get accounts suspended.
Bottom line: ESPN Bet is a legitimate Ohio sportsbook with a recognizable brand refresh. It's not the best in the state on odds or promotions alone, but the ESPN integration makes it worth a look if you're already living in their media ecosystem.