DraftKings is offering new users $100 [1] in bonus bets after placing a first qualifying wager of five dollars [2].
The promotion aims to attract new customers by leveraging high-interest events, specifically the NBA playoffs and Major League Baseball. By lowering the entry barrier for new accounts, the company seeks to increase its active user base during the peak of the spring sports season [4].
To qualify for the bonus, users must place a bet with odds of -500 or longer [3]. The offer is tied to specific events, including the NBA playoff matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder, as well as prop bets for MLB pitcher Paul Skenes [1].
While some reports mention the promotion in relation to Game 5 on Tuesday, May 26 [5], others specify the offer for Game 6 on Thursday, May 28 [6]. Some sources also indicate the promotion extends to the NHL [3], though other outlets focus exclusively on the NBA and MLB [1].
There is conflicting information regarding the need for a promotional code. Some reports suggest a code is required to unlock the bonus [1], while others said the offer requires no code at all [3].
Users must act quickly to take advantage of the deal. The promotion is scheduled to expire on Sunday, May 31, 2026 [4].
DraftKings typically provides these bonuses instantly after the qualifying bet is placed, allowing users to wager the bonus funds on subsequent games across various sports leagues [3].
“DraftKings is offering new users $100 in bonus bets after placing a first qualifying wager of $5.”
This promotion reflects a broader trend in the competitive U.S. sports betting market, where platforms use 'low-stake, high-reward' incentives to acquire users. By targeting specific high-profile athletes like Paul Skenes and critical playoff games, DraftKings is attempting to capture a larger share of the betting volume during the overlap of the NBA and MLB seasons.
