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  • Ryan Miller Claims PokerGO Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. Title in Star-Studded Finale

    Ryan Miller Claims PokerGO Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. Title in Star-Studded Finale

    An elite field of 95 poker heavyweights battled it out in the 2025 PokerGO Tour Mixed Games $10,000 H.O.R.S.E. event. When the dust settled, it was Ryan Miller who emerged victorious, bagging $247,000 and his latest major title. The two-time WSOP bracelet winner outlasted a stacked final table at the PokerGO Studio in ARIA Resort & Casino, Las Vegas.

    A Career Milestone for Miller

    For Miller, this win is among his biggest achievements in live tournament poker. His $247,000 payday ranks as his second-largest cash, only trailing the $344,677 he won in 2023 for taking down the WSOP Stud Eight-or-Better Championship. The Pennsylvania native has now surpassed $1.3 million in recorded tournament earnings, with most of his success coming at the WSOP.

    Beyond the cash prize, Miller also secured 540 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points. That boost propelled him into the top 200 of the 2025 POY leaderboard, presented by Global Poker.

    Big Names Fall Before the Final Table

    The tournament started with 95 players, but only 14 cashed, splitting the $950,000 prize pool. The money bubble burst late on Day 1, sending several high-profile players to the rail.

    Among the notable names eliminated before the final table were:

    • Yuri Dzivielevski (13th, $19,000) – The five-time bracelet winner fell just after the bubble burst.
    • Daniel Negreanu (9th, $29,500) – The seven-time bracelet winner couldn’t convert a deep run into a final table appearance.
    • Nick Guagenti (8th, $33,250) – The two-time bracelet winner just missed the last seven.

    With that, Day 2 began with seven players left and Miller leading the pack.

    Early Exits at the Final Table

    It didn’t take long for eliminations to start rolling in. First out was five-time WSOP bracelet winner Robert Mizrachi (7th, $38,000). He committed his last chips in a hand of Stud Eight-or-Better, but his pair of aces and flush draw failed to improve against Miller’s kings up.

    Next to go was Alexander Livingston (6th, $47,500). The 2019 WSOP Main Event third-place finisher fought hard on a short stack but fell in an Omaha Eight-or-Better hand. Holding A-2 for the nut low draw, he watched as Miller scooped the high side with a full house, while Chino Rheem secured the low.

    Another former WSOP champion, Johannes Becker (5th, $66,500), bowed out in a round of Razz. He started strong but caught bad runouts, allowing Samuel Sternfield to make an 8-7-5-4-A, sending Becker to the rail. With this cash, Becker is now closing in on $4.4 million in career tournament earnings.

    The Final Four Battle for Glory

    With only four players left, the intensity ramped up. Sternfield, Rheem, and Miller each took turns holding the chip lead. The structure of H.O.R.S.E., a rotating mix of Hold’em, Omaha, Razz, Stud, and Stud Eight-or-Better, tested every player’s versatility.

    One defining moment came in a round of Stud, where Rheem lost a crucial hand to Miller, shifting momentum in the latter’s favor. Miller continued to apply pressure, using his deep mixed-game experience to outmaneuver his opponents.

    A Well-Deserved Victory

    By the time it reached heads-up play, Miller had a commanding lead. His opponent fought hard but couldn’t overcome the gap. In the final hand, Miller locked up the title with a strong Stud Eight-or-Better hand, securing another prestigious win in his growing poker career.

    With this victory, Miller adds another accolade to his already impressive resume. As 2025 unfolds, he’s undoubtedly a player to watch, especially with WSOP season just a few months away.

  • Jeremy Ausmus Triumphs Over Record-Breaking 391-Entry Field in Triton Poker Jeju $25,000 Event

    Jeremy Ausmus Triumphs Over Record-Breaking 391-Entry Field in Triton Poker Jeju $25,000 Event

    Jeremy Ausmus has once again etched his name in poker history. The six-time World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet winner battled through a massive 391-entry field in the 2025 Triton Poker Super High Roller Series $25,000 no-limit hold’em eight-max event, securing his first Triton Poker title and an impressive $1,892,000 payday.

    This event shattered previous records, marking the largest field Triton Poker has ever seen. The competition was fierce, with some of the best players in the world chasing the title, but it was Ausmus who emerged victorious.

    A Career-Defining Victory

    For Ausmus, this win isn’t just about the money—though the $1.89 million certainly doesn’t hurt. This was the third-largest score of his illustrious career. The Las Vegas poker pro now boasts more than $26.6 million in recorded live tournament earnings across an astonishing 374 cashes.

    At 45, Ausmus continues to prove he’s one of the most consistent players in the game. While many players struggle with longevity in the high-stakes circuit, he keeps adding titles to his name. This latest win adds another prestigious trophy to his collection, solidifying his status as one of the game’s elite.

    The Hand That Almost Ended It All

    Poker is a game of skill, but sometimes, fate plays a hand. Ausmus found himself in a perilous situation when the tournament was down to its final 23 players.

    He picked up pocket kings—a monster hand—but ran into Aliaksandr Shylko’s pocket aces. What happened next was pure chaos. Due to a miscalculated raise, Ausmus’ initial bet was ruled too small, forcing him into a limp instead. Shylko raised, then flat-called Ausmus’ three-bet.

    Had the hand played out differently, Ausmus might have gone all-in preflop, likely resulting in elimination. Instead, Shylko hit quads and still took a sizable chunk of Ausmus’ stack, but crucially, Ausmus survived. That fortunate twist allowed him to keep fighting—and eventually claim the title.

    Climbing to the Top of the POY Standings

    Winning this massive event came with more than just prize money. Ausmus picked up 2,100 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points, propelling him to the top of the 2025 standings with 2,870 points.

    • This was his third POY-qualified final table of the year.
    • He previously won the $1 million PGT Championship Invitational, capping off his 2024 PokerGO Tour season-long points race win.
    • The POY race, sponsored by Global Poker, is now led by Ausmus, who has put himself in a strong position early in the year.

    If he maintains this form, he could be on track for one of the biggest years of his career.

    A Stacked Final Table

    It wasn’t an easy road to victory. The final table featured some of the most feared high-stakes players in the world. While every Triton event attracts elite competition, this one was particularly stacked.

    Final Table Highlights:

    • Ausmus stayed patient, picking his spots wisely.
    • He managed to build his stack steadily rather than relying on one massive double-up.
    • His experience shined through in the crucial late-stage hands, where every decision could mean the difference between victory and elimination.

    The Growing Prestige of Triton Poker

    Triton Poker events continue to be among the most prestigious in the poker world. The Super High Roller Series has attracted an increasing number of top-tier professionals, and record fields like this one only add to its growing reputation.

    One reason Triton events are so appealing is their unique mix of elite pros and wealthy recreational players. The combination creates massive prize pools, high-level competition, and some of the most exciting poker action of the year.

    What’s Next for Ausmus?

    After this career-defining win, all eyes will be on Ausmus to see if he can keep the momentum going. With the 2025 poker calendar stacked with big events, there’s no doubt he’ll be in contention for more titles—and perhaps another deep run in the WSOP later this year.

    Ausmus has already secured a place in poker history, but with the way he’s playing, he might just be getting started.

  • Texas Lottery Commission Moves to Ban Courier Sales After $83 Million Jackpot Sparks Controversy

    Texas Lottery Commission Moves to Ban Courier Sales After $83 Million Jackpot Sparks Controversy

    The Texas Lottery Commission has decided to put an end to lottery ticket courier services, a move that comes amid growing scrutiny over a recent $83.5 million jackpot win. State officials are raising concerns about the legitimacy and security of these online lottery sales, leading to a major policy shift that could reshape how Texans buy their tickets.

    Commission Cracks Down on Couriers

    On Monday, the Texas Lottery Commission (TLC) took a firm stance against third-party couriers that facilitate lottery ticket purchases through apps and websites. Executive Director Ryan Mindell made it clear that these services are not permitted under Texas law.

    Mindell warned that unregulated couriers create risks that go beyond just unauthorized sales.

    • Potential for money laundering through anonymous purchases
    • Fraudulent ticket sales and misrepresentation of official lottery affiliations
    • Lack of oversight in customer transactions

    The TLC plans to introduce rule changes at an open meeting on March 4, followed by a 30-day public comment period. This represents a significant departure from Mindell’s previous stance, where he claimed the commission lacked the authority to regulate or prohibit courier sales.

    Lieutenant Governor Calls Out the Sudden Policy Shift

    Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick isn’t buying the TLC’s change of heart. He believes the timing is suspicious, given that just days ago, he personally investigated a store where the winning $83 million ticket was sold.

    Patrick took to social media, blasting the commission’s decision:

    “Suddenly, only six days after I visited a store that sold the winning lottery ticket, the Commission quickly announced they would end all courier services. I now have even less confidence in the integrity of the Lottery Commission with this abrupt turnaround.”

    Patrick has long pushed to eliminate courier services, citing concerns over transparency and potential fraud. The Texas Senate already passed a bill in 2023 to ban these services, but it stalled in the House.

    “If the Lottery Commission thinks this ends our investigation, they are wrong,” Patrick warned. “We will restore the integrity of the Texas Lottery so people can trust its fairness. Otherwise, the Senate will end the lottery this session.”

    Industry Pushback: “This Ban is Unnecessary”

    Courier service providers aren’t taking the decision lightly. A spokesperson for the Coalition of Texas Lottery Couriers called the move unnecessary and abrupt, arguing that a regulatory solution should have been considered instead.

    Many courier companies had hoped that HB 3201, a bill proposing oversight rather than a ban, would provide a compromise. Instead, the TLC’s latest decision leaves them scrambling for options.

    The Bigger Problem: Texas Lottery’s Oversight Issues

    This controversy isn’t just about online lottery sales. Lawmakers and watchdog groups have raised concerns about how the Texas Lottery is being managed.

    • Past hearings revealed lapses in monitoring bulk ticket purchases.
    • Some executives allegedly operated in legal gray areas, allowing questionable practices.
    • The Texas Lottery’s contributions to education funding could be at risk if public trust declines.

    Governor Greg Abbott has taken notice. He directed the Texas Rangers to investigate not just the $83.5 million jackpot, but also a previous $95 million win in 2023 that stemmed from a bulk ticket purchase.

    “Texans must be able to trust in our state’s lottery system,” Abbott said. “We need to ensure that every dollar is accounted for and that the lottery is conducted lawfully and transparently.”

    What’s Next?

    The upcoming March 4 meeting will be critical in determining the fate of courier services in Texas. Public comments could influence the final decision, but given the political pressure from state leaders, a reversal seems unlikely.

    Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers’ investigation could uncover deeper issues within the lottery system. If they find evidence of misconduct, it could shake the foundation of Texas’ lottery operations altogether.

    For now, Texans who rely on courier services may need to start heading to physical retailers for their tickets. And as the investigation unfolds, bigger changes could be on the horizon.

  • Resorts World Las Vegas Names Carlos Castro as CFO Amid Leadership Shake-Up

    Resorts World Las Vegas Names Carlos Castro as CFO Amid Leadership Shake-Up

  • CreedRoomz to Showcase Certified Live Casino Games at SBC Summit Rio 2025

    CreedRoomz to Showcase Certified Live Casino Games at SBC Summit Rio 2025

    Live casino provider CreedRoomz is gearing up for a major presence at SBC Summit Rio 2025, happening on February 26-27 at the Riocentro exhibition center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As one of the few companies operating under Brazil’s new gaming regulations, CreedRoomz will highlight its certified live casino games, offering a glimpse into the future of online gaming in the country.

    Certified Live Casino Games for Brazil’s Growing Market

    CreedRoomz enters SBC Summit Rio with an edge—regulatory approval under Brazil’s new gaming laws. This certification allows the company to legally operate in Brazil’s evolving gambling market, giving it a head start over competitors.

    The demand for legal, high-quality live casino gaming in Brazil is surging. CreedRoomz, with its compliance-ready solutions, aims to capitalize on this growth. By exhibiting at Stand B890, the company plans to showcase its localized live casino offerings, ensuring operators can seamlessly integrate their services while staying within regulatory boundaries.

    New Game Releases: Richie Wheel & Richie Roulette

    Attendees at SBC Summit Rio will get an exclusive look at CreedRoomz’s latest live casino show games—Richie Wheel and Richie Roulette. These new titles introduce:

    • Dynamic multipliers that enhance winning potential
    • Engaging gameplay mechanics designed to keep players entertained
    • Fresh retention strategies for operators looking to boost user engagement

    “These titles are set to bring fresh excitement to players while offering operators new ways to enhance player engagement and retention,” the company shared.

    Full Suite of Live Casino Solutions on Display

    Beyond its new releases, CreedRoomz will present its full range of live casino solutions, designed to provide operators with flexibility and customization. Live casino gaming has become increasingly popular worldwide, and CreedRoomz is pushing to deliver high-quality, immersive experiences tailored to Brazilian players.

    One key highlight is the company’s ability to let operators personalize their offerings. From branded live dealer tables to unique in-game features, CreedRoomz is offering more than just standard casino games—it’s providing fully adaptable live gaming environments.

    A Strategic Move in Global Expansion

    The Brazilian gaming market is heating up, and securing regulatory approval was a critical step for CreedRoomz’s global strategy. The company recently announced its successful acquisition of certification under Brazil’s new gaming legislation, marking a major milestone in its expansion plans.

    With this certification, CreedRoomz is now fully authorized to:

    • Offer its portfolio of live casino games to Brazilian players
    • Partner with local operators to provide compliant gaming experiences
    • Establish a strong foothold in one of Latin America’s fastest-growing gambling markets

    SBC Summit Rio 2025 Set for Record Attendance

    This year’s SBC Summit Rio is expected to be the biggest edition yet. Organizers anticipate more than 15,000 attendees, a staggering 275% increase over the 2024 event. Held in a 70,000-square-meter venue, the event will bring together:

    • Global and regional gaming operators
    • Affiliates and influencers
    • Technology suppliers
    • Government representatives and regulators
    • Media professionals covering the industry

    From February 25-27, the event will serve as a key networking and business hub for the Latin American gaming sector. CreedRoomz’s participation underscores the significance of Brazil’s newly regulated market and the opportunities it presents for the live casino industry.

  • Michigan Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling: BetNow Ordered to Cease Operations

    Michigan Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling: BetNow Ordered to Cease Operations

    The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken a firm stance against illegal online gambling, issuing a cease-and-desist order against BetNow.eu. The offshore operator, which offers online casino games, sports betting, and horse race wagering, has been found in violation of multiple state laws.

    Offshore Betting Site Faces Legal Heat

    BetNow operates without a Michigan license, which is a direct violation of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act. Only state-licensed commercial casinos and federally recognized tribal casinos can legally provide online gambling in Michigan. The MGCB’s findings make it clear: BetNow is running an unauthorized gambling business.

    Executive Director Henry Williams didn’t mince words. “This unlicensed operator not only violates Michigan law but also exposes consumers to significant risks,” he said in a statement. The agency’s role, he emphasized, is to protect Michigan residents and ensure fair, legal gaming.

    Operating an illegal gambling platform isn’t just a regulatory issue—it’s a serious criminal offense. The Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act classifies unlicensed gambling as a felony, carrying penalties of up to 10 years in prison, fines reaching $100,000, or both.

    Risky Business: Consumer Protections at Stake

    Offshore gambling platforms often operate in legal gray areas, but BetNow’s practices raise even more red flags. The site accepts a wide range of payment methods, including:

    • Credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express
    • Digital wallets such as PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay
    • Cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Tether
    • Bank transfers and services like Zelle and CashMG

    While these options offer convenience, they come with significant risks. One concerning policy at BetNow requires players to wager their entire initial deposit before they can withdraw any winnings. Consumer advocates warn that this type of rule can trap players into a cycle of betting, making it harder for them to cash out.

    14 Days to Comply—or Face Legal Action

    The MGCB has given BetNow 14 days to shut down operations in Michigan. If the company doesn’t comply, the state could escalate its response. Legal action through the Michigan Attorney General’s Office remains on the table, which could lead to more severe penalties.

    Michigan officials have been cracking down on illegal gambling in recent years, and BetNow isn’t the first target. The MGCB has consistently warned residents about the dangers of using offshore platforms. These sites operate outside U.S. jurisdiction, making it nearly impossible for consumers to recover lost funds or dispute unfair practices.

    What This Means for Michigan Players

    For Michigan residents, the message is clear: stick to state-licensed gambling platforms. The MGCB maintains a list of approved operators, ensuring that players are protected under Michigan law.

    Illegal sites might offer flashy promotions and easy access, but they don’t provide the same level of security. Players risk losing money with no recourse, and in some cases, may unknowingly engage with sites that don’t follow responsible gaming practices.

    As online gambling continues to grow, Michigan regulators are sending a strong message—illegal operators won’t be tolerated. The fight against unlicensed gambling is far from over, and BetNow is just the latest in a long line of platforms facing state enforcement.

  • Boyd Gaming Kicks Off Site Work for New Henderson Casino, Construction Set for April 2025

    Boyd Gaming Kicks Off Site Work for New Henderson Casino, Construction Set for April 2025

    Boyd Gaming Corp. has started preparing the site for Cadence Crossing, a new casino development in Henderson, Nevada. The project will take over the location of Jokers Wild Casino on Boulder Highway, with construction scheduled to begin on April 3, 2025. If all goes according to plan, doors will open by mid-2026, introducing a fresh entertainment hub to one of the fastest-growing communities in the country.

    A New Casino for a Growing Community

    The Cadence master-planned community has been expanding rapidly, making it a prime location for Boyd Gaming’s latest venture. The initial phase of Cadence Crossing will include:

    • 450 slot machines
    • Multiple dining options
    • A modern gaming environment designed for local residents

    Boyd Gaming hasn’t ruled out further expansion. Future plans could bring a hotel, more gaming options, and additional amenities, depending on demand and the area’s continued growth.

    Keith Smith, President and CEO of Boyd Gaming, emphasized the significance of this investment. “As our company marks our 50th year serving the Las Vegas Valley, we are excited to begin our latest investment in the southern Nevada community,” he said.

    What’s Next for the Site?

    Jokers Wild Casino, which currently occupies the land, will be replaced entirely. While Boyd Gaming hasn’t provided an exact closure date for the existing casino, the transition will likely happen before April 2025 to allow for demolition and site preparation.

    The new casino will be built from the ground up, introducing a fresh look and modernized amenities compared to its predecessor. With gaming preferences evolving and competition intensifying in the Las Vegas Valley, Boyd’s decision to launch a brand-new property instead of renovating Jokers Wild signals a strategic move to attract the next generation of casino-goers.

    Boyd Gaming’s Expanding Local Footprint

    Boyd Gaming is no stranger to the Las Vegas casino scene. The company operates 28 properties across 11 states, including ten in the Las Vegas Valley. Three of those properties are downtown, while the rest cater to locals across different neighborhoods.

    One property notably missing from Boyd’s active roster is Eastside Cannery, located just north of Cadence Crossing’s future home. The casino has remained closed since the pandemic shut it down in 2020, with no updates on when—or if—it will reopen. The opening of Cadence Crossing could signal a shift in Boyd’s focus, prioritizing new developments over reviving shuttered properties.

    Why Henderson?

    Henderson has been attracting major investments in recent years, with new businesses, residential communities, and commercial developments reshaping the city. The Cadence community, in particular, has seen a surge in new residents, making it a prime target for entertainment and hospitality ventures.

    For Boyd Gaming, the opportunity is clear. Henderson’s population continues to grow, and with limited gaming options in the immediate area, Cadence Crossing could become a go-to destination for locals who prefer to avoid the congestion of the Strip.

    A Look at Henderson’s Growth

    Year Henderson Population Growth Rate (%)
    2010 257,729 —
    2015 285,667 +10.8
    2020 317,610 +11.2
    2023 336,348 +5.9

    With this steady increase, demand for entertainment options has followed suit. Boyd Gaming is betting on this trend continuing, making Cadence Crossing a strategic move in its long-term growth plan.

    Competition and Market Landscape

    While Henderson has its share of casinos, the market remains less saturated compared to other parts of the Las Vegas Valley. Sunset Station, Green Valley Ranch, and M Resort are among the largest competitors in the area, but none are located as close to the Cadence community as Boyd’s new project will be.

    The addition of Cadence Crossing could create new competition, particularly if Boyd Gaming follows through with future expansion plans, including a hotel and more gaming options.

    Keith Smith reinforced Boyd’s commitment to the project, saying, “Cadence is one of the fastest-growing master-planned communities in the nation, and we look forward to providing our neighbors with a modern and compelling gaming entertainment experience when Cadence Crossing Casino opens its doors in mid-2026.”

    With construction beginning next year, residents and gaming enthusiasts won’t have to wait too long to see what Boyd Gaming has in store for the area.

  • ACR Poker Unveils New Tournament Schedule With Bigger Prizes and Faster Play

    ACR Poker Unveils New Tournament Schedule With Bigger Prizes and Faster Play

  • Vegas Strip Holds Top Gaming Spot Despite 4.4% Revenue Dip

    Vegas Strip Holds Top Gaming Spot Despite 4.4% Revenue Dip

    The Las Vegas Strip is still king in the U.S. gaming market, even as revenue slipped 4.4% last year. That’s the key takeaway from the American Gaming Association’s (AGA) latest Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker. While the industry remains strong, the report highlights a shift—regional gaming hubs are seeing more action, and sports betting is raking in billions.

    Mixed Results Across U.S. Casino Markets

    The AGA report makes one thing clear: not all gaming markets are thriving. Among the top 20 casino markets in the country, only six saw revenue growth last year. More gamblers are choosing to stay local rather than travel to major casino hubs.

    Even with its revenue decline, the Las Vegas Strip remains the top gaming market in the U.S. Nearby, however, downtown Las Vegas and Reno/Sparks saw revenue climb. Atlantic City, the nation’s second-largest gaming market, also took a hit with a 1.7% drop.

    Some markets fared better. Chicago’s casino scene got a boost from new properties, keeping it the third-largest market. The Baltimore-Washington, D.C. region held onto fourth place. Detroit, which struggled with labor disputes in 2023, bounced back, recording its best revenue since 2019.

    Top-Performing Casinos and Growing Markets

    At the individual casino level, there were some notable winners.

    • Resorts World New York City kept its title as the highest-grossing casino outside of Nevada.
    • MGM National Harbor in Maryland and Encore Boston Harbor in Massachusetts rounded out the top three.
    • Rivers Casino Portsmouth in Virginia became one of the highest-earning casinos in the country in just its second year of operation.

    More broadly, 28 out of 36 commercial gaming jurisdictions set new revenue records, thanks to the combined strength of land-based gaming, sports betting, and online casinos.

    Some states saw double-digit growth in traditional casino gaming, thanks to new openings. Nebraska led the way with a staggering 60.1% jump in revenue. Virginia followed at 32%, while Illinois saw an 11% boost.

    Not every state had a good year. Several states that rely on sports betting saw revenue decline, including Montana (-16%), Ohio (-0.9%), and Mississippi (-2%). In total, eight states saw sports betting revenue fall in 2024.

    Sports Betting Revenue Nears $14 Billion

    If there’s one sector of the gaming industry that’s still in full-on growth mode, it’s sports betting. The numbers are eye-popping.

    • Americans legally bet $147.91 billion on sports in 2024, up 23.6% from 2023.
    • Nationwide sports betting revenue surged 25.4%, hitting $13.71 billion.
    • A slightly higher hold percentage (9.3% vs. 9.1% in 2023) helped boost operator revenue.

    New York remains the undisputed leader in the sports betting market, raking in $2.1 billion in revenue last year—a 23% increase. Illinois leapfrogged New Jersey to take the No. 2 spot, with a 21.1% jump to $1.2 billion.

    Massachusetts made a big move, climbing to seventh place as sports betting revenue jumped 38.8% year-over-year. Meanwhile, Ohio—the fourth-largest sports betting market—was the only top-10 state to see a revenue decline, slipping 3.9%.

    By the end of 2024, sports betting was legal in 38 states and Washington, D.C., with Missouri set to join soon. Texas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma could be next to legalize, setting the stage for even bigger numbers in the coming years.

    What’s Next for the Gaming Industry?

    The AGA’s report signals a shift in how Americans gamble. While Las Vegas remains the top destination, regional casinos are seeing more play. Sports betting, meanwhile, continues to grow at a breakneck pace.

    With new markets opening and major states like Texas considering legalization, the gaming industry isn’t slowing down anytime soon. But the question remains: how long can this winning streak last?

  • Kristen Foxen’s Aggressive Play Keeps Pressure on Stephen Song in PokerGO Tour Final Event

    Kristen Foxen’s Aggressive Play Keeps Pressure on Stephen Song in PokerGO Tour Final Event

    Kristen Foxen made her presence felt in the final event of the 2025 PokerGO Tour’s first series, leveraging her chip lead to apply relentless pressure on Stephen Song. With five players left and over $655,000 in prize money still in play, Foxen’s strategic aggression in a key hand forced Song to make a tough laydown, showcasing the dynamics of high-stakes tournament poker.

    A Battle of Big Stacks

    With blinds set at 50,000-100,000 and a big blind ante of 100,000, the hand began with Foxen raising to 200,000 from the cutoff. Song, sitting in the big blind, made the call. While this might seem like a standard preflop confrontation, the context made it anything but routine.

    Foxen held the largest stack at the table, while Song, though second in chips, had to be mindful of three short-stacked opponents. The Independent Chip Model (ICM) considerations put him in a tricky spot—risking a big confrontation with Foxen could be costly, while maintaining his stack lead over the shorter stacks was crucial.

    Applying Pressure on the Flop

    The flop came down, and after a check from Song, Foxen fired out a continuation bet of 150,000. Song called, which hinted at some strength but didn’t necessarily mean he was willing to go deep in the hand.

    For Foxen, this was an ideal moment to keep pushing. Even though she didn’t make a strong hand, she had a solid semi-bluffing opportunity. With her chip lead and position advantage, she could dictate the action, making it difficult for Song to comfortably continue unless he had a made hand.

    The Turn Brings More Firepower

    When the turn brought a second diamond, Song checked again. This was the perfect green light for Foxen to fire a more significant second barrel. She bet 650,000—about three-quarters of the pot.

    Song, who had check-called on the flop with a Broadway gutshot draw, now faced a dilemma. The additional diamond increased the likelihood that Foxen had a stronger hand or a high-equity draw. Calling this bet would commit a large portion of his stack, and if he didn’t improve on the river, he could be in an even worse situation.

    Rather than take the risk, Song folded, conceding the pot to Foxen, who extended her chip lead further.

    The Stack Dynamics at Play

    This wasn’t just a standard hand—it was a textbook example of how tournament poker at the highest level involves much more than just the cards. Foxen used her chip lead effectively, knowing that Song had more to lose than to gain by challenging her aggression.

    Here’s how the stack sizes looked before and after the hand:

    Player Stack Before Stack After Change
    Kristen Foxen ~60 BB ~65 BB +5 BB
    Stephen Song ~37 BB ~32 BB -5 BB

    By forcing Song out of the pot, Foxen not only built her stack but also put Song in a more vulnerable position moving forward.

    The Bigger Picture

    This wasn’t the last time these two would tangle at the table. With Foxen continuing to lean on her opponents and Song trying to navigate his way through the ICM minefield, the battle for the PokerGO Tour title was far from over.

    One thing was clear—Foxen had no plans to take her foot off the gas.