Fanatics Markets Launches Combos Feature Ahead of NBA Playoffs

Fanatics Markets has rolled out a new "Combos" feature that lets users combine multiple prediction contracts into a single position, arriving just before the NBA playoffs begin. The feature is now live across the platform, which operates in 24 states and four US territories, and is already tied to markets covering playoff games, series outcomes, and championship winners. 

Combos allow users to link outcomes across different sports events into a single contract with a higher potential payout. The structure mirrors parlays at the best sports betting sites, though it sits within a framework of prediction market apps. As more selections are added, the overall probability drops while the potential return increases. 

One example on Fanatics Markets showed three NBA-related outcomes combined into a contract with roughly an 11% probability. This implies a return above 900% if all legs hit. Individually, those selections carried probabilities closer to 50%. 

The platform runs on infrastructure tied to Crypto.com's federally regulated derivatives exchange, positioning Fanatics Markets closer to financial trading than traditional wagering. Combos expands that model by allowing more complex positions across sports and events.  

Available markets include basketball, baseball, boxing, football, hockey, MMA, soccer, and tennis, with additional sports expected to be added. 

Fanatics unveiled the platform in December, following its acquisition of Paragon Global Markets. Combos is taking it a step further, using riskier yet more rewarding contract models. 

Sportsbooks back political push as prediction markets expand 

The expansion of prediction-style products is unfolding alongside increased political activity from major betting operators. Fanatics, as well as DraftKings, FanDuel, and bet365, have collectively contributed about $48 million to Win for America, a political organization supporting state-level campaigns tied to gambling policy. 

The group has already spent more than $20 million across six states, including Texas and Georgia, where legal sports betting has not been approved. Other targeted states include North Carolina, Illinois, Ohio, and Alabama. Plans call for activity in as many as 15 more states before November, including Pennsylvania and New York. 

Win for America disclosed raising $41 million in its most recent reporting period, with an additional $7 million raised afterward, including a contribution from bet365. The organization is backing candidates viewed as supportive of regulated sports betting, emphasizing tax revenue and job creation tied to legalization efforts. It has stated it does not plan to spend on federal campaigns. 

"These organizations seek candidates who will thoughtfully approach regulation and ensure legal sports betting can continue to support communities through billions in tax revenue and jobs across America," a PAC spokesperson told Axios.  

In addition, problems persist for sportsbooks in some of their existing markets. Illinois raised tax rates for operators, Ohio tried to roll back mobile betting laws, and New Jersey attempted to ban some forms of betting.