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Category: News

  • Mississippi Set for 2025 Showdown Over Online Sports Betting

    Mississippi Set for 2025 Showdown Over Online Sports Betting

    Mississippi lawmakers are gearing up for a heated debate on online sports betting as the 2025 legislative session approaches. After previous efforts failed to cross the finish line, advocates and opponents are preparing for another round of discussions that could reshape the state’s gaming landscape.

    The 2024 Push That Stalled

    In 2024, Mississippi House Bill 774 passed overwhelmingly in the House (97-14) and cleared the Senate with a 36-15 vote. However, progress stalled when a bipartisan conference committee failed to reconcile key disagreements, leaving the bill unresolved. The session ended without a consensus, highlighting the divisions over licensing, taxation, and the broader implications for Mississippi’s gaming industry.

    Central to the stalemate were concerns about licensing frameworks and the exclusion of online casino gaming. Some senators expressed fears that online sports betting might harm the state’s 26 commercial casinos, a critical economic driver generating $2.5 billion in gross gaming revenue annually. Others argued that a narrow focus on sports betting was short-sighted, given the rapid evolution of online gambling in neighboring states.

    Casinos Weigh In: A Boost or a Threat?

    Mississippi’s commercial casinos, including MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment, strongly back the legalization of online sports betting. They argue that online platforms would complement, not compete with, their physical operations. Proponents claim that allowing online sports betting could help Mississippi retain its competitive edge in the gaming market while addressing the growing issue of illegal offshore betting.

    Casinos’ support stems from a financial reality. States like New Jersey demonstrate that online platforms dominate the sports betting market. In 2024, New Jersey’s online sportsbooks brought in $130.3 million in tax revenue, dwarfing the $2.8 million from brick-and-mortar locations.

    Meanwhile, Mississippi’s restrictive policy—limiting sports betting to in-person wagers at casino properties—has pushed residents toward illegal platforms or into neighboring states like Louisiana and Tennessee, where online betting is legal.

    Lawmakers’ Mixed Signals

    State Senator David Blount, chair of the Senate Gaming Committee, has indicated a cautious approach. While open to considering a Senate bill, he stressed the importance of consumer protections and a narrow focus on sports betting. Blount’s stance reflects a broader concern: how to balance the economic benefits of online betting with the potential risks to local casinos and consumers.

    On the other side, the Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC) has taken a neutral stance. Executive Director Jay McDaniel highlighted that while online betting is technically legal within casino premises, the commission has not pushed for legislative changes. McDaniel emphasized that any proposed bill would need to align with state interests and include robust safeguards.

    Economic Stakes: Revenue and Competition

    Proponents of online sports betting point to significant economic opportunities. The 2024 bill estimated $25 million in annual tax revenue, earmarked for critical infrastructure improvements. For comparison, states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania have reaped substantial financial rewards from legalizing online platforms. Mississippi, with its strong gaming tradition, could capture a share of this growing market while curbing illegal gambling.

    Mississippi’s neighbors have already embraced online sports betting:

    • Louisiana: Launched online wagering in 2022, capturing millions in monthly revenue.
    • Tennessee: Operates an entirely online sports betting market.
    • Arkansas: Expanded to include online sports betting in early 2022.

    These states provide easy access for Mississippi residents, further highlighting the competitive pressures facing local casinos.

    Challenges Ahead

    Despite the potential benefits, opposition remains strong. Critics argue that expanding online betting could exacerbate problem gambling and harm the state’s brick-and-mortar casinos. The debate also extends to the scope of legalization—whether to include online casino gaming alongside sports betting.

    Another hurdle is the lack of a unified legislative front. The split between the House and Senate in 2024 reflects deeper disagreements over how to structure and regulate the market. Without a clear consensus, passing a bill in 2025 could prove just as challenging.

  • Countdown: 2024 Player of the Year – Top Poker Tournament Performers

    Countdown: 2024 Player of the Year – Top Poker Tournament Performers

    As 2024 comes to a close, the race for the coveted Card Player Player of the Year (POY) title has officially concluded. The year has been a thrilling ride, with countless high-stakes tournaments showcasing poker’s brightest stars. Today, we highlight the players who ranked 10th through 6th in the POY standings, presented by Global Poker. Collectively, these top performers amassed over $27.2 million in earnings, graced 110 final tables, and claimed 18 titles.

    This article sets the stage for the upcoming reveal of the fifth through second spots, culminating in the announcement of the 2024 Player of the Year.

    Stephen Chidwick: A Model of Consistency

    Total Points: 6,229
    POY Earnings: $5,686,359
    Titles: 5
    Final Tables: 20

    Stephen Chidwick’s 2024 performance cemented his place as one of poker’s all-time greats. The 35-year-old from Deal, England, has an illustrious record, having finished in the top 50 for 11 of the last 12 years. This year was no different, as he made an impressive 20 POY-qualified final tables and won five titles.

    Key Wins and Milestones

    Chidwick’s crowning achievement in 2024 was his victory in the $50,000 pot-limit Omaha event at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Paradise festival in December. Outlasting 122 entrants, he took home $1,357,080 and his second career gold bracelet.

    He also made waves at the Triton Monte Carlo series, where he finished fifth in the $150,000 buy-in event, pocketing $1.3 million. These results added to his staggering tally of 13 seven-figure scores across his career.

    Breaking Records

    Chidwick’s consistency is unrivalled. This year marked the fifth time in the last decade that he reached at least 20 final tables. With total career earnings now exceeding $63.6 million, he ranks as the third highest-earning player in poker tournament history.

    Tournament Earnings and Achievements at a Glance

    To put Chidwick’s 2024 in perspective, here’s a snapshot of his performance:

    Category Statistic
    Total POY Points 6,229
    POY Earnings $5,686,359
    Total Final Tables 20
    Titles Secured 5
    Largest Single Win (2024) $1,357,080
    Career Tournament Earnings $63,600,000+

    Why It Matters

    Stephen Chidwick’s career is a testament to skill, determination, and longevity in a game where variance can often derail even the most talented players. With his five titles and consistent top-tier finishes, Chidwick has set a benchmark for poker greatness.

    Stay tuned as we uncover the names filling the fifth through second spots in the POY rankings, followed by the highly anticipated reveal of 2024’s Player of the Year.

  • Michael Kaplan: Crossing Paths with Mike Matusow and the Tale That Never Saw Print

    Michael Kaplan: Crossing Paths with Mike Matusow and the Tale That Never Saw Print

  • Vietnam Suspends Local Gambling Trial at Phu Quoc’s Corona Resort

    Vietnam Suspends Local Gambling Trial at Phu Quoc’s Corona Resort

    Vietnam’s groundbreaking pilot program allowing its citizens to gamble at the Corona Resort & Casino on Phu Quoc Island has officially ended. The initiative, which began in 2019, was halted on December 31, 2024, with the suspension taking effect from midnight on January 1, 2025. The government has provided no timeline for its reinstatement.

    A First for Vietnamese Gamblers

    This trial marked a historic shift in Vietnam’s stance on gambling. Previously, locals were barred from casinos, which catered exclusively to foreign visitors. Under the pilot, Vietnamese citizens could gamble provided they met stringent criteria, including a minimum monthly income of VND10 million ($400) and payment of entry fees set at VND1 million ($25) per day or VND25 million per month.

    The program aimed to assess whether legalizing local participation could help curb gambling tourism abroad and boost domestic economic growth. Initially set to conclude in 2022, the pilot was extended due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

    • Entry requirements included proof of income and payment of fees.
    • Corona Resort & Casino was the only venue authorized for local participation.
    • The program was seen as a potential solution to Vietnam’s outbound gambling activities.

    Financial Struggles Despite Growing Tourism

    While the trial had its merits, it didn’t come without challenges. Corona Resort & Casino reported significant financial losses of VND300 billion ($12.7 million) in the first half of 2024. High operational costs, including depreciation and interest expenses, were compounded by a drop in local participants, contributing to these struggles.

    However, the broader tourism landscape in Phu Quoc tells a different story. The island saw a sharp rise in visitors, hitting 6 million in 2024—a 49% increase compared to 2019. With substantial investments of VND388.41 trillion in its tourism infrastructure and favourable visa policies, Phu Quoc has emerged as a global travel hotspot. Esteemed publications like Travel+Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler have spotlighted it as a top destination for 2025.

    A single paragraph here highlights Phu Quoc’s resilience, despite the casino’s financial issues.

    The Future of Local Gambling in Vietnam

    The conclusion of this pilot program has left the future of local participation in Vietnam’s casino industry in limbo. A second venue in Van Don, which was approved under the program, remains unopened. This has raised questions about whether the government will pursue similar initiatives or focus solely on foreign patrons in the long term.

    The suspension doesn’t affect foreign visitors, including Vietnamese nationals holding foreign passports, who remain eligible to gamble at the resort.

    Challenges and Considerations:

    • Will the government explore alternative approaches to integrating locals into casino operations?
    • How might economic pressures influence future policy decisions?

    Optimism Amid Uncertainty

    Despite the suspension, Corona Resort & Casino remains optimistic about the potential reinstatement of the program. In a statement, the casino expressed gratitude to its customers and hope for the future. “We firmly believe that, with proper adjustments, we will soon resume operations to serve our valued customers and partners,” the resort noted.

    The casino’s commitment reflects broader optimism about the potential for casino gambling to play a role in Vietnam’s economic strategy. Whether through reintroducing the program or developing new models, the industry’s path forward will be closely watched.

  • Blackjack Player Sues Horseshoe Baltimore and Caesars Entertainment for $3 Million Over Alleged Unlawful Detention

    Blackjack Player Sues Horseshoe Baltimore and Caesars Entertainment for $3 Million Over Alleged Unlawful Detention

  • Building a Thriving Gaming Company in Costa Rica: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Building a Thriving Gaming Company in Costa Rica: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Costa Rica has carved out a reputation as a sought-after location for online gaming businesses. With its favourable regulatory framework, low operational costs, and access to global markets, it’s no surprise that entrepreneurs are flocking to this Central American hotspot. But what does it take to set up a successful gaming company here? Industry expert Ron Mendelson, in collaboration with Fast Offshore, lays out the essential steps.

    Understanding Costa Rica’s Legal Framework for Gaming

    Costa Rica’s approach to online gaming regulation is unique. Unlike jurisdictions with specific gaming licenses, the country allows companies to operate under a “data processing” license.

    • No Local Market Access: Companies are prohibited from targeting Costa Rican residents. Operations must strictly focus on offshore clients.
    • Legal Consultation is Crucial: Engage with local legal professionals to ensure your business complies with Costa Rican laws and international gaming standards.
    • Regulatory Simplicity: This framework offers significant flexibility but demands adherence to local norms to avoid penalties.

    For entrepreneurs, this legal setup creates opportunities for innovation while ensuring regulatory boundaries are respected.

    Establishing a Corporate Structure

    To operate legally in Costa Rica, setting up a corporate entity is non-negotiable. The process involves several steps that are best managed with expert guidance.

    1. Register Your Business: File the necessary documents with the National Registry.
    2. Tax Compliance: Obtain a corporate tax number and register with the local tax office.
    3. Banking Requirements: Open a corporate bank account to handle transactions.
    4. Data Processing License: Secure this essential license to legitimise your gaming operations.

    Pro Tip: Collaborating with a service provider like Fast Offshore simplifies these steps, ensuring a smooth and compliant setup.

    Crafting a Comprehensive Business Plan

    A business plan acts as your company’s blueprint. It should be detailed, clear, and actionable.

    Key Components to Include:

    • Market Research: Analyse global markets and competitors to position your brand effectively.
    • Platform Development: Partner with reliable software providers who can meet your technical demands.
    • Revenue Strategy: Define how your company will generate income, be it through subscriptions, ads, or fees.
    • Marketing Plan: Use SEO, social media, and affiliate programs to attract and retain players.

    A well-thought-out plan can differentiate your company in a competitive market.

    Investing in Reliable Technology

    Technology is the backbone of any gaming operation. Without robust systems, businesses risk downtime, security breaches, and player dissatisfaction.

    • User Experience: Platforms must be intuitive and mobile-friendly.
    • Security Measures: Implement encryption and fraud detection to protect user data.
    • Payment Systems: Offer multiple payment gateways to cater to a global audience.
    • Scalability: Choose software that can grow with your business.

    Focusing on technology ensures a seamless and secure experience for your players, which builds long-term loyalty.

    Responsible Gaming and Compliance

    While Costa Rica’s regulations are flexible, global standards for responsible gaming are stricter. Companies must proactively adopt measures to safeguard their users.

    • Betting Limits: Allow players to set spending caps.
    • Age Verification: Ensure only legal-age users can access your platform.
    • Transparency: Clearly outline terms and conditions.

    Adopting responsible gaming practices not only enhances your reputation but also protects your business from regulatory risks in international markets.

    Building a Skilled Team

    Your workforce is the heart of your company. Hiring the right people can make or break your business.

    • Developers: Build and maintain your gaming platform.
    • Marketing Experts: Drive brand awareness and player acquisition.
    • Customer Support: Address player concerns swiftly.
    • Compliance Officers: Navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.

    Costa Rica’s skilled local workforce, combined with remote hiring for specialised roles, provides ample talent to support your operations.

    Leveraging Costa Rica’s Business Advantages

    Costa Rica isn’t just a good choice for legal reasons—it offers several operational benefits as well.

    Advantage Details
    Low Costs Affordable compared to jurisdictions like Malta.
    Political Stability A safe environment for long-term investments.
    Time Zone Alignment Convenient for North and South American markets.

    These factors make Costa Rica a practical and strategic location for gaming startups and established businesses alike.

    Collaborating with Fast Offshore

    Setting up a gaming company in Costa Rica might seem overwhelming, but Fast Offshore simplifies the process.

    • End-to-End Support: From registration to compliance, they cover it all.
    • Tailored Expertise: Decades of experience in gaming make their insights invaluable.
    • Global Connections: Access to top-notch software vendors, payment providers, and legal advisors.

    With Fast Offshore, you gain a trusted partner to navigate the intricacies of launching and running your business.

    Marketing for a Successful Launch

    Your platform may be ready, but success depends on effective marketing. A strategic approach can ensure your gaming company stands out.

    Tips for Effective Marketing:

    • SEO Optimisation: Rank higher on search engines to attract organic traffic.
    • Social Media Engagement: Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to connect with players.
    • Affiliate Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers and affiliates to expand reach.
    • Loyalty Programs: Reward returning players with bonuses and promotions.

    A strong marketing strategy ensures sustained growth and player retention.

  • MLB Players’ Union Challenges DraftKings, Bet365 Over Improper Use of Player Likenesses

    MLB Players’ Union Challenges DraftKings, Bet365 Over Improper Use of Player Likenesses

    The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) is doubling down on its legal challenge against sports betting titans DraftKings and bet365. The union has pushed back against claims that the companies were within their rights to use player images in advertisements and apps under the guise of free speech and press protections. MLB Players Inc. (MLBPI), representing the union’s commercial interests, argues that these companies aren’t news organisations and therefore lack the protections they claim.

    Pennsylvania Fair Use Statute: A Key Battleground

    The dispute hinges on Pennsylvania’s fair use statute, which the MLBPI contends doesn’t support the operators’ arguments. The statute references “news reports” or “news presentations,” terms that MLBPI argues don’t apply to gambling companies promoting their services. In their motions to dismiss, both DraftKings and bet365 cited precedents involving fantasy sports that upheld the newsworthiness of player statistics and images.

    However, the union swiftly countered, saying the cited cases occurred outside Pennsylvania and are irrelevant under the state’s specific laws. The argument has raised the stakes, as a decision here could set a precedent that extends beyond sports betting and player rights.

    Protecting Players’ Rights

    The MLBPA’s lawsuit not only aims to enforce licensing agreements but also highlights the broader implications of unlicensed use of player images. The union asserts that the operators used players’ likenesses without permission, effectively commercialising them without compensation.

    A significant point of contention is the standing of MLBPI in the lawsuit. Critics argue that the organisation lacks direct harm, but the union maintains it is acting on behalf of its members, whose rights are directly impacted. According to a report by SBC Americas, the MLBPA insists it has a fiduciary responsibility to protect player interests, solidifying its role in the litigation.

    DraftKings and bet365’s Defence Strategy

    DraftKings and bet365 have built their defence on legal precedents involving fantasy sports. They argue that player statistics and images are integral to their operations and should be treated as newsworthy content. However, the MLBPA challenges this logic, particularly in a commercial context where player likenesses are used to attract customers rather than inform them.

    The companies’ strategy also leans heavily on broader First Amendment protections, but the MLBPA’s argument that gambling apps and advertisements do not qualify as “news reports” could undermine this defence. Legal analysts are closely watching how Pennsylvania’s courts interpret these nuances.

    The Broader Implications of Licensing Deals

    This case isn’t the only one addressing the misuse of player likenesses. In a parallel lawsuit in the Southern District of New York, Underdog Sports faces allegations of improper use of MLB player images. FanDuel, originally a co-defendant in that case, was dropped after securing a licensing agreement with MLBPI in late 2024.

    This trend signals an increasing need for clarity in licensing agreements as the sports betting industry grows. Licensing deals like FanDuel’s not only protect companies from lawsuits but also strengthen their brand credibility. The outcomes of these lawsuits could serve as a blueprint for future negotiations between sports organisations and betting companies.

    What’s at Stake for MLB Players and Operators?

    The stakes in these legal battles extend far beyond financial settlements. For players, the cases represent a fight for control over their images in a world where sports and betting are increasingly intertwined. For operators, a loss could mean significant changes to how they market their platforms and interact with player data.

    The growing tension between the sports industry and betting operators underscores the need for clear legal guidelines. Whether Pennsylvania’s courts side with MLBPI or the betting giants, the ripple effects will likely reshape the future of sports marketing and licensing agreements.

  • Virginia Breaks Sports Betting Records in November: A Banner Month for Revenue and Handle

    Virginia Breaks Sports Betting Records in November: A Banner Month for Revenue and Handle

    Virginia’s sports betting industry reached unprecedented heights in November, smashing records for both revenue and betting handle. The latest data from the Virginia Lottery paints a vivid picture of a state embracing sports wagering with remarkable enthusiasm and profitability.

    A Historic Surge in Revenue

    November saw Virginia’s gross sports betting revenue soar to $80.6 million, a figure that dwarfs November 2023’s earnings by an impressive 121.4%. It also stands 64.5% higher than the previous month, October 2024. This surge eclipses the earlier adjusted gross revenue (AGR) record of $67.5 million, set in January 2024, by a substantial 19.4%.

    Interestingly, nearly all AGR—$79.9 million—originated from online betting platforms. Traditional retail sportsbooks contributed a modest $666,689, highlighting the dominance of mobile and online betting in the state.

    Handle Hits New Heights

    November’s sports wagering handle climbed to an all-time high of $761 million. This is the second consecutive month Virginia has set a new record, breaking October’s $696.1 million mark by 9.3%. It’s also the first time the state surpassed the $700 million milestone in a single month.

    • Online bets: $756.8 million
    • Retail bets: $4.2 million

    Players reaped $674.6 million in winnings, leaving sportsbooks with a hold rate of 10.60%, a healthy margin reflecting both player interest and operator efficiency.

    Record-Breaking Tax Revenue

    The surge in activity also meant a windfall for the state, which collected an all-time high of $12.1 million in sports betting taxes. Of this, $11.8 million was channelled into the General Fund Allocation, supporting essential public services. Another $302,529 went to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund Allocation, demonstrating the state’s commitment to responsible gambling initiatives.

    Virginia’s sports betting tax rate of 15% on adjusted gross revenue has proven to be a robust revenue generator. The previous monthly high for tax revenue was January 2024, with $9.9 million collected—a mark November comfortably surpassed.

    A Snapshot of Monthly Growth

    The figures underline a year of rapid growth for Virginia’s sports betting industry, particularly in November 2024:

    Metric November 2024 October 2024 November 2023 % Change (YoY)
    Gross Revenue $80.6 million $49 million $36.4 million +121.4%
    Handle $761 million $696.1 million $638.8 million +19.1%
    Taxes Collected $12.1 million $9.9 million $7.2 million +68.1%

    Online Betting Takes the Lead

    One standout trend is the dominance of online betting. Of the $761 million total handle, $756.8 million came from online platforms, a staggering 99.45%. Retail betting at land-based casinos accounted for a mere $4.2 million. This shift underscores the convenience and accessibility of mobile betting apps, which continue to outpace their brick-and-mortar counterparts.

    Implications for the Industry

    Virginia’s sports betting boom has implications that extend beyond its borders. The state’s success story could influence other regions considering the expansion of gambling legislation. The record-setting numbers also highlight the potential for robust tax revenues, which can fund state programs and services.

    The Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund Allocation’s growth indicates a responsible approach to addressing gambling addiction risks. By earmarking funds for prevention and treatment, Virginia ensures its gambling industry operates with public welfare in mind.

  • PokerGO Tour Last Chance Series: A Final Shot at Glory

    PokerGO Tour Last Chance Series: A Final Shot at Glory

    The PokerGO Tour (PGT) is setting the stage for its climactic end-of-year spectacle with the Last Chance Series, kicking off Thursday. This high-stakes series offers players one final opportunity to secure their spot in the million-dollar PGT Championship while showcasing their prowess in the competitive poker scene.

    Tim Duckworth, Director of Live Events for PokerGO, expressed excitement for the series, saying, “With high stakes on the line and additional Dream Seat entries available, this series gives everyone a shot.”

    Let’s dive into what makes this series a must-watch and a critical moment for poker enthusiasts and players alike.

    The Format: Six Events, High Stakes

    The Last Chance Series comprises six no-limit hold’em tournaments, each with a $10,100 buy-in. The structure offers participants ample opportunities to climb the leaderboard and claim one of the coveted top 40 spots in the season-long PGT rankings.

    But there’s a catch: simply earning a top-40 rank isn’t enough. Players also need at least three qualifying cashes to secure their seat in the million-dollar freeroll PGT Championship.

    The series isn’t just about the leaderboard, though. A unique points-based system offers additional opportunities for standout players, regardless of their season-long ranking.

    Notable Players on the Brink

    Several big names are currently fighting to stay in contention—or break into—the PGT Championship’s elite top 40. Among them are reigning World Series of Poker Main Event champion Jonathan Tamayo and prominent players like Brian Kim, Niklas Astedt, and Jason Sagle, all of whom have fewer than the required three qualifying cashes.

    Meanwhile, stars like Matthew Wantman, Isaac Haxton, and Sergio Aido are just outside the bubble and could capitalize if others fall short.

    It’s a high-pressure scenario: fail to meet the criteria, and even some of the year’s most consistent players could see their Championship dreams dashed.

    Dream Seats and the Invitational

    For those who don’t make the top 40, all is not lost. The Last Chance Series includes a unique feature: three “Dream Seat” entries awarded to players who excel in the series leaderboard but fall short of the season-long cutoff.

    Additionally, players who finish fourth through eighth in the Last Chance points race will receive “Dream Passes.” These passes grant entry to the PGT Championship Dream Seat Invitational, a single-day event on January 9.

    The stakes in this invitational couldn’t be higher: the final six players will secure entries into the PGT $1,000,000 Championship, set to begin the very next day.

    Schedule Breakdown

    Here’s a quick look at the Last Chance Series schedule, which promises daily drama and excitement:

    Event Start Date Days Buy-In
    PGT Last Chance #1 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 2 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #2 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 3 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #3 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 4 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #4 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 6 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #5 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 7 2 $10,100
    PGT Last Chance #6 – $10,100 NLHE Jan 8 2 $10,100
    PGT Championship Dream Seat Invitational Jan 9 1 $0

    Each event promises intense competition, with players vying not only for payouts but also for points that could alter the season standings dramatically.

    The Road to the Million-Dollar Championship

    The PGT $1,000,000 Championship begins on January 10, featuring a two-day freeroll event with a seven-figure prize pool. Starting stacks will be determined by PGT leaderboard rankings, giving top players a clear advantage heading into this high-stakes finale.

    Only the top six players will cash in the Championship, with the winner set to claim $500,000. For many, this represents not just a financial reward but a career-defining moment.

    The Last Chance Series is more than just a poker tournament—it’s a battleground for glory, redemption, and one final shot at making history. With the stakes so high, expect nothing less than electrifying action from start to finish.

  • Francis Anderson Wins Final Multi-Flight Poker Tournament of 2024

    Francis Anderson Wins Final Multi-Flight Poker Tournament of 2024

    In a thrilling conclusion to 2024, Francis Anderson claimed victory in the Venetian New Year’s Extravaganza $800 No-Limit Hold’em UltimateStack tournament. The bracelet winner from Wappinger Falls, New York, outlasted a field of 515 players, securing $61,551 in prize money. This marked Anderson’s sixth tournament win and bolstered his reputation as a top competitor in poker.

    A Year of Milestones for Anderson

    Anderson’s 2024 poker journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Earlier this year, he captured his first World Series of Poker bracelet in the $800 Independence Day Celebration Event, taking home $501,040—a career-best score. His ability to excel in holiday-themed events has become a hallmark of his career, making him a formidable contender in these unique tournaments.

    This latest win also brought Anderson’s lifetime tournament earnings to more than $3.6 million. Alongside his financial success, Anderson added 420 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points, bringing his annual total to 2,772. With three titles and nine final-table finishes, Anderson will end the year ranked within the top 130 in the POY standings, cementing his status as one of the game’s elite players.

    The Competition at the Final Table

    The $800 buy-in event attracted a diverse and competitive field, with a total prize pool of $355,350. The top 66 finishers walked away with a share of the spoils, but the final table was where the real action unfolded.

    Notable players included:

    • Terry Fleischer: The 2024 Mid-States Poker Tour Venetian Poker Bowl champion finished in 8th place.
    • Aaron Massey: The seasoned pro claimed 6th place.
    • Ryan Laplante: The bracelet winner and accomplished player added another feather to his cap by finishing 4th.

    Laplante, who had already secured a significant score of $185,500 earlier in December, now edges closer to $4 million in recorded tournament earnings.

    A Dramatic Heads-Up Showdown

    After an anonymous third-place finisher exited, Anderson faced Lokesh Garg in a riveting heads-up battle. Garg entered with a chip advantage, but Anderson quickly turned the tables.

    The pivotal moment came when Anderson made a flush, besting Garg’s jack-high straight. In the final hand, the board showed A♣ Q♠ 9♥ 9♣ J♣, and Garg held 10♥ 8♣ for a straight. However, Anderson revealed J♠ 9♠, giving him a full house and the championship. Garg walked away with $44,245 as the runner-up.

    Final Table Payouts and POY Points

    Here’s how the final table payouts and POY points were distributed:

    Place Player Earnings ($) POY Points
    1 Francis Anderson 61,551 420
    2 Lokesh Garg 44,245 350
    3 Anonymous 32,015 280
    4 Ryan Laplante 23,455 210
    5 Alex Perez 17,300 175
    6 Aaron Massey 12,800 140
    7 Chris Mohr 9,615 105
    8 Terry Fleischer 7,355 70
    9 Max Zhang 5,685 35

    With this win, Anderson adds yet another chapter to an already stellar year, proving once again that he’s one of poker’s most consistent and talented players.