Papaya, a mobile gaming enterprise enabling users to engage in cash-based games like solitaire, has partnered with notable ESPN figures to advocate for its platform. Despite these efforts, the skill-oriented gaming service is under increased scrutiny from legal authorities who are evaluating whether its games could be classified as illicit gambling.

The company, which positions itself as a frontrunner in “skill-based” mobile gaming, has enlisted several prominent sports personalities to amplify its brand presence. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith is set to host the upcoming Solitaire World Championship next year, while Mina Kimes and Kendrick Perkins have actively promoted Papaya’s competitions on social platforms. These collaborations garnered attention after reports emerged that ESPN advised its on-air talent to sever ties with the company due to concerns regarding its legal standing.

Papaya’s Solitaire Cash application allows players to engage in monetary competitions through direct matches. The company asserts that its games depend on skill rather than luck, claiming that “our games do not constitute gambling in areas where Papaya operates as the outcomes are determined by player skill rather than chance.” However, this viewpoint has not always been endorsed by regulators.

In October 2024, the Michigan Gaming Control Board issued a cease-and-desist order to Papaya, labeling its offerings as illegal gambling according to state regulations. Michigan is among several states where the company’s real-money tournaments are not permissible.

The U.S. legal framework for skill-oriented gaming is inconsistent. Some states allow it under specific guidelines, while others impose restrictions or outright bans. This uncertainty has created opportunities for businesses like Papaya, which currently exists in a regulatory gray area that seems to be tightening.

Papaya’s robust marketing strategy and partnerships with celebrities come as larger gambling entities explore similar models. FanDuel introduced FanDuel Faceoff in 2022, collaborating with the NBA and Rob Gronkowski to feature skill-based contests offering cash rewards. Betr, another competitor in this field, launched its Betr Arcade this year across 29 states. DraftKings’ venture capital branch has also backed Papaya, while the NFL retains a long-term partnership with Skillz, one of Papaya’s primary rivals.

However, Papaya’s rising visibility has also led to legal challenges. Its competitor Skillz filed a lawsuit against the company in New York last year, alleging false advertising and misleading tactics. The lawsuit accuses Papaya of misleading customers by suggesting they were competing in “completely fair and skill-based” matches against humans while actually utilizing bots in “rigged” contests. Papaya has refuted these allegations and countersued.

The controversy has already impacted the company’s promotional efforts. Kimes deleted her social media endorsements for Papaya, publicly labeling the affiliation “a monumental mistake.” Following this, ESPN reportedly instructed several of its on-air personalities to terminate their associations with the company, as reported by Front Office Sports.