The Cherokee Nation is contemplating a grand entrance into the glittering, high-stakes arena of the Las Vegas casino industry. Yet, as the saying goes, “It’s not time to place their bets just yet,” as emphasized by the chairman of its gambling authority.
The Nation Is Not Ready for Vegas
John Sparks, the dynamic chair of the Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission, shed light on the unfolding drama. He stated that while the notion of jumping into Vegas’s golden ring isn’t off the table, the tribe isn’t ready to roll the dice just yet.
Sparks addressed the murmurs circulating at the recent National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS), asserting that the whispers about the tribe’s Vegas ambitions amount to nothing more than vapor and smoke—for now. “We’re in the business of gaming, but there’s no imminent ante in the Vegas pot,” he clarified.
For those unfamiliar with the tribe’s impressive portfolio, the Cherokee Nation currently owns and operates eight thriving casinos in Oklahoma. On top of that, two years ago, they added the Gold Strike Hotel & Casino in Mississippi to their hand. Not to leave any stone unturned, they are also gunning for a casino license in Arkansas. Adding the neon-lit Las Vegas to their list could indeed fortify their growing empire, positioning them for nothing short of a jackpot.
Intriguingly, when pressed for a timeline or predictions, Sparks played his cards close to his chest. “A Vegas venture may be in the cards, but we’re not laying down our chips just yet,” he quipped with a knowing smile.
Tribal Gaming Has a Limited Presence in Vegas
Now, should the Cherokee Nation eventually decide to double down on a Vegas move, they’re likely eyeing a strategic acquisition. Analysts highlight, however, that this ambition could hit a rough patch, considering the Vegas Strip currently has no casinos on the market. Not a single dealer is ready to slide a property across the felt.
Moreover, the financial landscape has thrown its own curveballs. The high-interest rates have turned casino mergers and acquisitions into an expensive game. Even a possible reduction in borrowing costs by the Federal Reserve might not be enough to tilt the odds in favor of a burgeoning M&A activity spree.
As it stands, the lone tribal flag hoisted over a Vegas property flutters proudly above the Palms Casino Resort, nestled just off the famous Strip. In a recent twist, Mohegan Gaming folded its Vegas hand, while the Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock brand is gearing up to re-debut the Mirage in 2027. The Mirage, once an icon, has shuttered its doors to undergo a metamorphosis—emerging as the sparkling new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, complete with an iconic Guitar Hotel.
With the dice in limbo, the Cherokee Nation watches the table intently, poised and ready to make its move when the odds—and timing—are just right. Until then, the rumor mill spins on, leaving us all to wonder, “When will the Cherokees go all in?”
