Bally’s Corporation on Monday closed on its acquisition of Sam’s Town Shreveport from Boyd Gaming, an expansion of its regional gaming and entertainment portfolio. The transaction adds an established gaming and hospitality property to Bally’s portfolio and reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to the Shreveport-Bossier market.
The Louisiana Gaming Control Board recently voted unanimously to approve the $30 million purchase.
According to News Radio 710 KEEL, because Bally’s owns and operates Bally’s Shreveport Casino & Hotel directly adjacent to Sam’s Town along the west bank of the Red River, the transaction marks the first time two neighboring riverboat gaming properties in this market will come under unified ownership.
Bally’s has 20 properties across 20 states, with 12,000 employees, about 18,000 gaming machines, and 4,000 hotel rooms.
The property will be re-branded as a Bally’s operation.
“Today’s closing marks an important milestone for Bally’s as we continue to expand our presence in key regional markets and invest in destinations with strong long-term potential,” Bally’s Corporation Chairman Soo Kim said in a statement. “We appreciate Boyd Gaming’s partnership and professionalism throughout this process and thank the Louisiana Gaming Control Board for its thoughtful review and approval of the transaction. We look forward to welcoming the Sam’s Town Shreveport team to Bally’s and working closely with regulators, local leaders and employees to ensure a smooth transition. Louisiana is an important market for our company, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead.”
Entrepreneur and rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, who continues to make significant investments in Shreveport’s entertainment district, welcomed the closing and expressed enthusiasm about future collaborations.
“I’m excited for Bally’s expansion in Shreveport as we continue investing in the city’s future,” Jackson said. “Together, we have an opportunity to create new entertainment, dining and retail experiences that attract visitors, support local businesses and contribute to Shreveport’s continued growth. I look forward to working with Bally’s to help build something that benefits the community for years to come.”
The Shreveport Sam’s Town property includes a 29,000 square-foot casino floor featuring about 750 slot machines and 14 table games. The property also has a 514-room hotel tower that features convention and meeting spaces, multiple restaurants, and a live entertainment venue.
