“The BetRivers Sportsbook will take March Madness out of the office pool and into an exciting, elevated live sports wagering experience,” said Corey Wise, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Rivers Casino. River Road in Des Plaines-the home of the first brick-and-mortar sportsbook to be approved by the Illinois Gaming Board, and becoming the first to accept a legal sports bet. opening ceremony at Rivers Casino, 3000 S. (March 5, 2020) – The BetRivers Sportsbook will open for business Monday, March 9, at noon following a 10:00 a.m. BetRivers Sportsbook Opens March 9th for First Legal Illinois Sports Wager Rivers Casino Des Plaines Will Be State’s First Sportsbook in Time for March Madness Des Plaines, IL