Ep. 166: When a merger becomes a multiplier w/ Steve “Dakota” Happas & Sahil Patel from FantasySpin

Ep. 166 features Steve “Dakota” Happas and Sahil Patel from FantasySpin, a real-money DFS platform reinventing the fantasy experience through a gamified, slot-style draft mechanic. This episode was recorded on-site at SBC Summit North America 2025 in Fort Lauderdale. Hear them discuss:

• How a friendly fantasy football bet led to the founding of BettorFantasy
• Steve’s journey from online poker and dating platforms to fantasy sports
• Why the two companies merged to form FantasySpin and how the deal came together
• How their slot-style drafting system introduces luck, skill, and replayability
• Why FantasySpin rewards users even when players in their lineup don’t play
• The biggest lessons from their first full NFL season post-merger
• How their gameplay translates into highly engaging, video-first marketing
• Why their future plans include spin-to-pick hybrid formats and arcade modes
• How they’re self-funding growth while selectively exploring strategic capital
• Their long-term vision to become the next billion-dollar DFS platform

Catch the video version of this episode here.

Learn more 👇

➡️ FantasySpin website

➡️ Steve Happas on Linkedin

➡️ Sahil Patel on Linkedin

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This podcast is presented by Optimove, the #1 CRM Marketing solution for the iGaming industry. Since 2012, Optimove has served iGaming Operators from startups to industry leaders. Today, 4 out of the Top 5 US Operators Personalize Player Experiences with Optimove. iGaming operators know their growth journey begins and continues with Optimove, the #1 CRM Marketing solution for the iGaming industry.