Before sports gambling was legalized in Louisiana, Jim McIngvale usually flew to Las Vegas or New Jersey to place his bets.
McIngvale, a Houston furniture salesman better known as “Mattress Mack,” estimated he now places 99% of his wagers in Louisiana, driving five or six times a year to the Vinton Welcome Center on Interstate 10 just across the state line.
“The rest stop is my spot, baby,” McIngvale said. “As long as them alligators stay away from me, I’m good.”
The rest area offers a convenient place to gamble because online sports betting has not been legalized in Texas, pushing business to Louisiana. Some bet from their cars, while others sit in rocking chairs in the lobby that overlooks a large pond. Once, McIngvale placed a then-record $5 million Super Bowl bet from outside the men’s restroom.
