Sports Illustrated Sportsbook Review: A Famous Name, an Average Platform
The Sports Illustrated brand carries weight, and the book gets the essentials right — a fair bonus, strong security and a genuinely fun free-to-play game. But a dated desktop layout and lower bonus value keep it out of the top tier.
Welcome offer
Up to $300 in free bets, drip-fed rather than lump-sum: place a first bet of $10 or more and earn a $10 free-bet token, repeated across your next 29 qualifying bets. Terms include a -150 minimum on qualifying bets, a seven-day window to use each token, and free-bet stakes excluded from winnings.
Other promotions
The standout is the free-to-play Perfect 10: predict 10 results across any sports for a share of $10,000, with $1 in free-bet credit for every correct pick even if you don't sweep. SI SportsBoosts add enhanced odds on selected markets — occasionally beating rivals' pre-boost prices.
Payments
A reasonable spread with $10 minimums: debit and credit card, instant bank transfer, Play+, PayPal and PayNearMe for deposits; debit card, bank transfer, Play+ and PayPal for withdrawals (each up to a $50,000 max). Bank transfer is quickest at up to three days; other methods take about four — unusually, PayPal isn't the fastest here.
Markets and odds
23 markets including esports and special events like the Winter Olympics (21 conventional sports once you set aside boosts and specials). Odds are average-to-good, often around -110 on 50/50 outcomes — the better end of the industry's typical -110 to -115.
User experience
The desktop site is the weak point — an overly dark theme that fills space rather than using it well, though the menus navigate cleanly. The app (Android and iOS) is far more comfortable, and the mobile browser sits just behind it, with occasionally small text that zoom fixes.
Support and responsible gambling
Support runs through a contact form only — no phone or live chat — though replies were quick in testing. Deposit limits are available to help keep spending in check and add a layer of account protection.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Up to $300 in free bets
- Free-to-play Perfect 10 game
- Strong security and trust
- Good selection of betting options
Cons
- Dated desktop interface
- Lower bonus value than rivals
- Contact form is the only support channel
FAQ
What is Sports Illustrated's welcome offer?
Up to $300 in free bets — a $10 token for each qualifying $10+ bet across your first 30 bets.
What can I bet on?
23 markets including football, basketball, boxing, golf, MMA, soccer and esports.
Is there live in-play betting?
Yes — on the desktop site, mobile site and the Android and iOS apps.