Best Barstool Sportsbook VPNs in 2026
If you’ve been following Barstool Sportsbook over the past few years, you’ve probably noticed the name changes. What started as Barstool Sportsbook became ESPN BET in November 2023 — and as of December 1st, 2025, it’s now operating as theScore Bet. The branding may have shifted, but the core experience is still there, with fantasy sports, casino games, and live betting on major leagues like the NFL and NBA.
However, theScore Bet isn’t available in every state. If you’re traveling or located outside a supported area, you might find yourself locked out of your account. That’s where a VPN can come in handy, helping you maintain a secure connection while on the move.
In this guide, I walk you through the 5 best Barstool Sportsbook VPNs in 2026 based on hands-on testing with the Cybernews research team, and explain exactly how to set them up and use them.
Best Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet) VPNs in 2026
- NordVPN – best VPN for Barstool Sportsbook in 2026
- Surfshark – very affordable Barstool Sportsbook VPN
- PureVPN – security-focused VPN for Barstool Sportsbook
- ExpressVPN – reliable Barstool Sportsbook VPN
- CyberGhost – VPN for Barstool Sportsbook with specialized servers
Why do you need a VPN for Barstool Sportsbook?
The gambling industry is heavily regulated. Different countries and US states often have their own laws around online betting. On top of this, licensing agreements also have an impact on where you can access different sites. As a result, Barstool Sportsbook, now known as theScore Bet (being ESPN BET for 2 years), is only available in the US.
However, Barstool Sportsbook is not available in all US states – only some locations get full access to both Sportsbook betting and Casino game services. If you’re not in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, or another state where Barstool Sportsbook is available, you’ll get an error message.
There’s no need to worry, though. Top-rated VPNs can alter your IP address and make it seem as if you’re connecting from the right location. All you need to do is set up a VPN, pick a server in a state where you can play Barstool Sportsbook, and you’ll be able to bet and play games as you please.
Note: To successfully access Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet) with a VPN, you still need to verify you're a US citizen. To access Barstool Sportsbook from anywhere, you must prove your place of residence by sharing your social security number, state-issued ID, or driver's license number.
The hardest part of the process is choosing the right VPN. Luckily, I’ve put the work in and reviewed 41 VPN providers to find out which options can unblock the rebranded Barstool Sportsbook.
How to use Barstool Sportsbook with a VPN
- Download a VPN with servers throughout the US – NordVPN is my top recommendation, now 75% OFF
- Install the VPN software on your device
- Connect to a server in a US state where Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet) is available (like Arizona or Michigan)
- Create an ESPN BET account or log in to your existing account
- Enjoy access to sports betting and the casino
Best VPNs for Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet) in 2026: detailed list
The ideal VPN for Barstool Sports (theScore Bet since December 2025) will provide you with servers in all the key US locations, reliable connections, privacy settings, and security features. The following options tick all those boxes, so let’s dive into the best VPNs for Barstool Sportsbook.
1. NordVPN – best VPN for Barstool Sportsbook overall
| Servers/countries: | 9,500+ servers in 149 countries |
| Streaming sites: | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get 75% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free |
NordVPN is your best option for unblocking Barstool Sportsbook, now called theScore Bet. This first-rate provider offers the total package of features, security, and value.
NordVPN offers 3100+ server connections around the US, including theScore-Bet-approved locations like Arizona and Colorado. Overall, it has a total of 9,500+ servers in 149 countries, so you can also unblock live international sports programming while making bets. I unblocked theScore Bet, other gambling sites such as bet365, BetMGM, and DraftKings, and content streamers such as ESPN and Sky Sports.
Its split tunneling can route specific apps through the VPN while keeping others on your regular internet connection. This is perfect for accessing Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet) while your work email platform remains open.
The NordVPN service uses the cutting-edge NordLynx tunneling protocol (with ChaCha20 encryption implemented) to keep its connections as fast as possible. You can look forward to buffer-less betting and silky-smooth streaming. High-level encryption and a kill switch protect you even if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops out.
As for pricing, NordVPN costs only $3.49/month. An excellent price as it is, but be quick, and you can knock the price down even more with our NordVPN discount codes.
2. Surfshark – budget-friendly Barstool Sportsbook VPN
| Servers/countries: | 4,500+ servers in 100 countries |
| Streaming sites: | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Now up to 85% OFF Surfshark + 3 months FREE |
Surfshark is another excellent VPN for Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet). It's also one of the most cost-effective picks, and with our Surfshark promo code "OFFCN", it’s even more affordable.
You’ll find 600+ Surfshark servers all over the US, including in states where Barstool Sportsbook is available, such as Illinois and Michigan. Surfshark unblocks Barstool Sportsbook, other gambling sites like BetMGM, and region-restricted content on channels like Sky Sports, beIN Sport, and ESPN.
Surfshark uses the industry-leading WireGuard tunneling protocol, so it delivers phenomenal VPN speeds. What is more, Surfshark features include split tunneling, a kill switch, smart DNS, AES-256 encryption, leak protection, and multi-factor authentication. All those cover your anonymity, security, and streaming.
Surfshark costs $2.49/month, and it includes unlimited simultaneous connections. If you think that’s a bargain, wait till you get a Surfshark VPN voucher code.
3. PureVPN – VPN for Barstool Sportsbook with always-on audit
| Servers: | 6,000+ servers in 65 countries |
| Streaming sites: | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Now 83% OFF PureVPN + 3 FREE months |
PureVPN doesn’t mess about with flashy frills – it simply offers a truly robust VPN service with always-on audit.
PureVPN has servers in 14 US states, with its New York connection ideal for unblocking (theScore Bet). In total, PureVPN provides a whopping 6,000+ worldwide servers – more than enough to tackle the geo-blocks on global betting sites and international content streamers.
Stable connections are another standout of this provider, so you can bet confidently and enjoy lag-free streaming. It also gets top marks for security. Your sensitive data is shielded by AES-256 encryption, and its kill switch kicks in the instant your connection drops. Independent audits are conducted without prior notice to ensure PureVPN’s service is of the highest quality.
PureVPN’s pricing with a $2.15/month subscription is a superb value for money. And if you sign up with a PureVPN discount coupon, you can reduce that for an even cheaper deal.
4. ExpressVPN – premium Barstool Sportsbook VPN
| Servers: | Servers in 105 countries |
| Streaming sites: | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Now up to 80% OFF ExpressVPN + 4 months FREE |
ExpressVPN is another reliable VPN for Barstool (theScore Bet) that can easily unblock sportsbook and casino sites.
First off, ExpressVPN offers a wide range of servers. It no longer shares its exact server count, but it still has servers in 105 countries, including several US states where Barstool is available.
In terms of security, ExpressVPN is safe and goes hand in hand with other top providers like NordVPN and Surfshark. It implements modern AES-256 encryption, a reliable kill switch for any accidental leaks, an audited no-logs policy, and even a Threat Manager – ad and tracker blocker.
ExpressVPN is compatible with all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Therefore, you can enjoy a VPN-protected connection on Barstool.
ExpressVPN subscriptions are reasonably priced. Plans start at $2.49/month and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, just in case.
5. CyberGhost – fast Barstool Sportsbook VPN with specialized servers
| Servers: | Servers in 100 countries |
| Streaming sites: | Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+ |
| Compatible with: | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get 88% OFF CyberGhost + 2 months FREE |
CyberGhost is also a decent VPN option for placing your bets on Barstool Sportbook, now called theScore Bet, or other sports betting sites online. This VPN provider offers servers across 100 countries.
Like other VPN providers on this list, CyberGhost has powerful security measures in place. That includes AES encryption, a strict no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, and an automatic kill switch that guards from any accidental data leaks.
It also features great speeds – our CyberGhost tests revealed that the provider retains around 78% of original connection speeds. You’ll be able to place your bets without a buffer on all sorts of devices, including Windows, macOS, Android and iOS devices, and Linux.
CyberGhost also offers great value for money. Its plans start at just $1.59/month. Additionally, there’s a free trial for different devices and an extended 45-day money-back guarantee.
How to choose the best VPN for Barstool Sportsbook
As long as you pay attention to the following features when choosing a VPN, you should always be able to unblock Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet):
- Servers in the permitted regions. All the VPNs I’ve suggested in this list have servers in the states where theScore Bet is permitted.
- Speed and reliability. The last thing you want is a buffering screen as you’re cashing out on an in-game bet. Choose a VPN with cutting-edge tunneling protocols and fast speeds.
- Security and privacy. Data encryption, kill switch, no-logs policy, independent audits – these are the features top VPNs provide to keep you secure and anonymous online.
- Ability to unblock streaming sites. Use a VPN that unblocks streaming platforms, and you’ll be able to watch all the major sports channels like ESPN, Sky Sports, BT Sport, and beIN Sport.
- Additional features. Look for a VPN with useful features like split tunneling and smart DNS.
- Cost. Don’t pay over the odds – I’ve chosen VPNs that combine quality service with value for money.
Why is Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet) blocked in my state?
Gambling regulations differ across states and countries. Licensing issues also mean that theScore Bet is only allowed to operate in agreed-upon locations.
Barstool Sportsbook’s (theScore Bet’s) services can be separated into two features: sportsbook and casino games. The former includes live sports betting, while the latter gives you online games with cash prizes.
You can only bet on theScore Bet when you're in a state where it's legally allowed. But you can log in, add or take out money, and see your betting history from anywhere in the US.
Sportsbook is currently available in 21 US states:
| Arizona | Iowa | Maryland |
| Colorado | Kansas | Massachusetts |
| Illinois | Kentucky | Michigan |
| Indiana | Lousiana | New Jersey |
| Pennsylvania | Tennessee | Virginia |
| New York | North Carolina | West Virginia |
| Washington D.C. | Ohio | Missouri |
However, access to both sportsbook and casino games is only available in the following states: Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Jersey, and West Virginia. So not only is most of the world blocked from accessing theScore Bet, but only 4 US states get access to both live betting and casino games.
Is it legal to use a VPN for Barstool Sportsbook?
The legality of using a VPN to access theScore Bet Sportsbook depends on the specific state or country where you are located. In the United States, there’s no federal law that prohibits the use of VPNs for gambling. However, some states have their own laws that regulate gambling, and these laws may prohibit or restrict the use of VPNs. For example, in New York, it’s illegal to gamble online using a VPN.
As for using a VPN in your country, while it’s true that a small list of countries ban VPNs (including the UAE and China), VPN use is perfectly legal in most regions. However, I recommend checking your local laws on VPN use and gambling – just to be on the safe side. This detailed guide on VPN legality offers more information.
It's important to note that theScore Bet (formerly ESPN BET) uses GeoComply and browser-based location tracking technology on desktop devices. It also requires GPS/location services to be enabled on mobile devices.
Also, note that theScore Bet reserves the right to ask for age and identity confirmation at any point. That means you should not use fake identification when signing up for the service – sooner or later, questionable access to the platform could be found out.
What can you play on Barstool Sportsbook?
Barstool Sportsbook, which rebranded to theScore Bet in December 2025, has a wide range of fun gambling options for sports fans. The Sportsbook side includes betting on live and upcoming sports, including NFL, international cricket, NASCAR, English Premier League football, F1, Rugby Union, NBA, MLB, cycling, MMA, and NHL, to name just a few.
Barstool Sportsbook now goes by the name theScore Bet, but you can still find its casino games online, which are now labeled as part of the Hollywood Casino brand. You can play (and win cash) on all your favorite casino games, including:
- Slots
- Blackjack
- Poker
- Roulette
- Baccarat
- Jackpots
- Steppers
- Megaways
- Double Diamond
There are always new bonuses, promotions, and deals, so don’t miss out and stay updated through the official theScore Bet website and social media.
After rebranding, ESPN BET is now theScore Bet, adding Missouri to its list of available states. Existing users can log in just like before, with all their account settings, open bets, and responsible gaming tools remaining the same. As always, you need to be 21 or older to place a bet.
Conclusion
Barstool Sportsbook, recently rebranded to theScore Bet, is only available in a select few US states, such as Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Anyone outside of the approved locations will be banned from using the site.
But if you use a reliable VPN to change your IP address, you can make Barstool Sports think you’re in the right location, and you’ll be able to access its services.
Region-restricted content can also be unblocked with a VPN. So not only can you bet on live sports, you can stream the big game too – no matter where you are. On top of that, theScore Bet Sportsbook VPNs enhance your online security, so you can be more comfortable when making online transactions and streaming content.
First-rate providers, including NordVPN, give you the tools you need to access Barstool Sportsbook, unblock streaming content, and stay secure online.
FAQ
Does a VPN work for Barstool Sportsbook?
Yes, you can use NordVPN to unblock Barstool Sportsbook (theScore Bet) from anywhere, even in US states and countries where the service is usually banned. However, you still need to create an account with the correct credentials, which include documents verifying your area of residence.
How can you use Barstool Sportsbook in a banned US state or from anywhere in the world?
You can use Barstool Sportsbook from anywhere in the world, including banned US states, by downloading a VPN. Get one of the recommended VPNs for Barstool Sportsbook (now theScore Bet), spoof your IP address to a US state where the platform is allowed, including Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, and you’ll be good to go.
Is Barstool Sportsbook legal?
Yes, Barstool Sportsbook is completely legal. This betting platform only operates in US states where gambling is permitted. If you want to access the platform from outside those states, you need a capable VPN to spoof your IP address.
What states are the Barstool Sportsbook legal in?
Barstool Sportsbook, after rebranding to theScore Bet, is currently legal and available in Ontario, Canada and the following 21 US states: Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. You can change your virtual location to one of these states with a reliable VPN like NordVPN.
