Industry insiders say ESPN's deal with Penn Entertainment could signal a potential ESPN spinoff from Disney. Disney announced a $2 billion deal with casino operator Penn Entertainment to create ESPN Bet. ESPN's $2 billion Penn Entertainment deal rocked the sports-betting world — and also renewed speculation among industry insiders that Disney could spin off its media crown jewel. To be sure, some industry watchers have questioned how the deal positions ESPN's ability to catch up in the sports-betting race. According to the American Gaming Association, sports betting grossed $7.5 billion in gaming revenue in 2022, up 75% from 2021.

---

Persons: Bob Iger, Jonathan Miller, Penn, Alex Ilosevich, it's, It's, Iger, — DraftKings, sportsbooks, LightShed, Peyton Manning's, Ashley Rodriguez Organizations: Industry, Penn Entertainment, ESPN, Disney, ESPN Bet, what's, Hearst, CNBC, NFL, NBA, MLB, Integrated Media Co, Caesars Entertainment, Penn, LightShed Partners, American Gaming Association, Amazon, Comcast, Peyton Manning's Omaha Productions, Front Office Sports Locations: Saudi