History of PrizePicks in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 27, 2026

PrizePicks, legally SidePrize LLC, is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) operator based in Atlanta. It's known for its "pick 'em"-style DFS contests. A key distinction, and source of legal contention, is its classification as a DFS operator rather than a traditional sportsbook. This difference has led to debates and legal issues concerning its operational legality.

2014: Adam Wexler developed the concept for PredictPicks

In late 2014, Adam Wexler developed the concept for what would become PrizePicks, co-founding the company as PredictPicks with Jay Deuskar.

October 2018: PredictPicks rebranded as PrizePicks

In October 2018, PredictPicks officially changed its name to PrizePicks.

June 4, 2019: Start date for revenue calculation in New York

June 4, 2019, marks the beginning of the period for calculating revenue from purported IFS bets placed by New York-based bettors, eventually leading to a settlement.

2019: PrizePicks began supporting esports

In 2019, PrizePicks began supporting esports, connecting with Hi-Rez Studios to support the game Smite.

2022: Esports entry fees increased from 2022 to 2023

From 2022 to 2023, PrizePicks saw its total esports entry fees increase by over 110%.

September 2023: Florida Gaming Control Commission sent a cease-and-desist letter to PrizePicks

In September 2023, the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) sent a cease-and-desist letter to PrizePicks, accusing them of "offering potentially illegal mobile betting games."

October 2023: New York regulators agreed to ban 'pick'em' games

In October 2023, New York regulators agreed to ban "pick'em" games, though PrizePicks was in violation regardless because they did not have the authorization to offer any type of IFS games in the state.

December 19, 2023: End date for revenue calculation in New York

December 19, 2023, marks the end of the period for calculating revenue from purported IFS bets placed by New York-based bettors, eventually leading to a settlement.

2023: Esports entry fees increased from 2022 to 2023

From 2022 to 2023, PrizePicks saw its total esports entry fees increase by over 110%.

January 2024: PrizePicks launched betting products more in line with traditional DFS constructs

In January 2024, after being shut down in several states, PrizePicks launched betting products "more in line with traditional DFS constructs".

February 1, 2024: PrizePicks announced a marketing partnership with the Stephen A. Smith Show

On February 1, 2024, PrizePicks announced a marketing partnership with the Stephen A. Smith Show.

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February 2024: PrizePicks announced it would cease paid contests in New York

In February 2024, PrizePicks announced it would be at least temporarily ceasing paid contests in the state of New York due to changes in the state's gaming laws and agreed to pay nearly $15 million to the state.