Bennett Awards Brings Iconic MGM Lion to Life with Custom Poker Tournament Awards for BetMGM

EL DORADO HILLS, Calif. - July 30, 2025 - PRLog -- Bennett Awards is proud to announce the continued creative partnership with BetMGM, a top-tier online gaming and sports betting operator, through the development of two distinctive awards for their poker tournaments.

The collaboration began when BetMGM asked for a custom-designed trophy that would embody the prestige and excitement of their poker events. Their goal was to create an award that included the iconic MGM lion—something symbolic that would inspire players beyond the cash prize. The result was a sleek, ten-inch trophy made from layered black acrylic, featuring a waterjet-cut brass plate of BetMGM's modern lion logo. This sits atop an octagonal black base, mirroring the design found on BetMGM's customized poker chips.

Following the success of this logo award—now ordered in bulk for streamlined tournament fulfillment—BetMGM tasked Bennett Awards with designing a more visually striking piece for their premier poker events. This new concept would pay homage to the lion sculpture known as "Leo" in front of MGM's Las Vegas casino, but reimagined to include a roaring stance consistent with BetMGM's branding.

The final result is a nearly 14-inch tall sculptural lion, cast in lightweight resin and finished with a radiant gold electroplate. Both the lion and its round base share the same gold material for a seamless, premium look. A black laser plate with gold text is affixed to the base for personalized winner details. To enhance portability while maintaining a sense of weight and importance, each award is filled with sand for added heft.

Unique in both style and symbolism, the sculpted lion features angular, chiseled detailing for a modern and bold interpretation of the brand's mascot. This design not only distinguishes itself from other lion-themed poker awards but has already made its debut in BetMGM's event marketing and will be prominently featured at future tournaments.

"We loved bringing the iconic lion to life in a way that felt both artistic and brand-true," said a Bennett Awards representative. "It's rewarding to find design solutions that are both impactful and budget-conscious."

BetMGM operates in 29 U.S. markets and continues to be a leader in online gaming, recognized with multiple industry awards. Bennett Awards is proud to support their continued success through thoughtful, high-quality recognition pieces.

About Bennett Awards

Bennett Awards is a boutique design studio specializing in high-end, custom recognition awards for some of the world's most respected brands, institutions, and creative leaders. From sculptural trophies to bespoke deal toys, each piece is designed in close collaboration with the client and handcrafted by skilled artisans. With a reputation for artistic excellence, precision craftsmanship, and meaningful storytelling, Bennett Awards delivers iconic, one-of-a-kind creations that honor achievement at the highest level.

Visit https://www.bennettawards.com/