• Develop a solid foundation in casino card counting to enhance your blackjack strategy by learning how to mentally track the ratio of high and low cards remaining in the deck.
• Explore various card counting systems, such as the popular Hi-Lo or the MIT methods, to determine which approach aligns best with your skill level and playing preferences.
• Hone your card counting proficiency through dedicated practice sessions that include drills and simulations using free online blackjack designed to simulate real blackjack scenarios.
• Implement effective card counting strategies during gameplay by maintaining focus, staying attentive to the cards being dealt, and making calculated decisions based on your counting system’s signals.
• Enhance your overall blackjack strategy by combining card counting with fundamental playing strategies, such as basic strategy charts.

A key to unlocking constant blackjack wins, a hockey system not worth trying, or just plain cheating? There is no doubt that card counting divides opinion, and there are a lot of myths around this technique. But exactly how do you count cards in blackjack?

On this page, we will break down those myths to bring you the truth about counting cards. Learn how to count cards and understand how this strategy can boost your blackjack gameplay.

How to Count Cards in Blackjack

Card counting in blackjack is a technique that can give the player an advantage by tracking high and low-value cards during a game. When you know how to count cards in blackjack, you essentially have a mental map of which cards have already been used and which remain. At its core, blackjack card counting gives players an extra advantage against the casino’s house edge.

Why Learn Card Counting?

Blackjack is a game of luck, even if it does have elements of skill. However, if you become good enough at counting cards, the game becomes beatable. Sounds great, but what’s the catch? Well, blackjack card counting is incredibly difficult and requires a lot of training and skill, and even then, you may not be able to do it.

Knowing how to count cards in blackjack allows you to control your betting based on which cards you perceive as remaining. It is a deceiving system because the logic of card counting is easy to understand, but doing it in practice is very difficult.

All card counting starts with assigning cards with a zero, positive, and negative value, all of which contribute to the Effect of Removal (EOR). As the name suggests, this provides an estimate of what impact removing a specific card will have on the house edge. 

Legality of Card Counting

One of the most interesting things about card counting is that it is not illegal. In the US, no law says you cannot count cards when playing blackjack. Other countries view it similarly, making it technically “legal” around the world. It is interesting that counting cards is not cheating, as you are not unfairly influencing the outcome of the game.

Even so, you are not going to be greeted with open arms by land-based casinos if they know you are card counting. In fact, you are likely to be thrown out if the casinos suspect you are counting. You’re free to try, but most casinos frown upon it and will ban you if you are caught.

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Basic Concepts of Card Counting

The fundamental knowledge you need to start card counting is understanding the card values in blackjack. If you are unfamiliar with blackjack, it is a casino card game where you play against the dealer. The objective is to get closer to 21 than the dealer without going over. You get two initial cards and can “Stand” with those two or “Hit” to receive more cards.

Each card in blackjack has a value that you add together to get a hand total. For numbers 2 through 10, the value is the number. Picture cards all have a value of 10, while the Ace counts either as 11 or 1:

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Understanding the Deck

Most blackjack games use more than one deck, which is partially a response to card counting. If you do play a single-deck variant, counting cards is relatively easy as you only track 52 cards. In more common multi-deck games, you need to track more cards, which is why counting cards requires an excellent memory.

Each card in the deck is given a positive, negative, or zero value by the card counter. Which value is given depends on the card, so let’s expand on the table above to see the -/+ values for blackjack card counting:

The Running Count Vs. The True Count

To track cards properly across multiple decks, counters use a running count and a true count. Both of these are important components when you learn how to count cards:

• Running Count: At the core of card counting is the running count, which is the total value of all cards that have been dealt. So, if a 2, 5, King, and 8 are dealt, the running total for the sequence would be +1 (+1, +1, 0, -1 = +1). This is known as the running count, and if it remains positive, it means there are more high cards left in the decks. If it is negative, there are fewer high-value cards.
• True Count: You can now find the true count by taking the running count and spreading it across all decks in the game. The running count only shows the one deck in play at that time, while the true count adjusts the number for all remaining decks. This is done by dividing the running count by the number of decks left.

Step-by-Step Guide to Counting Cards

Knowing how to count cards in blackjack adds an extra element of skill to help you control your betting during a game. Simple in concept but harder in practice, let’s apply what we know so far into a clear gameplay flow.

• Give each card a value. You can choose your own values, but we recommend beginners stick to the traditional card counting valuations (2-6 is +1, 6-9 is 0, 10-Ace is -1). The dealer will now deal cards, and your goal is to adjust your count on each card. There is a constant Effect of Removal (EOR) for each card dealt that dictates if you bet higher or lower.

• Maintain your running count and adjust it on each card dealt. If you learn your values well, you will only need to keep the total count in your mind and not memorize each card. A positive running count means you are gaining an advantage because more cards with a higher value remain. The negative count means you are losing your advantage.

• At intervals in the game, divide the running count by the number of decks to find the true count. Once you know the true count, you have a much better understanding of how well you are doing. If your advantage is significant, you can increase your bets. If you are losing your advantage, consider lowering bets or stopping play completely.

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Tips for Beginner Card Counters

We bet you are surprised by how simple card counting actually is. Even so, it does require you to spend time properly understanding how it works. Below are some tips and resources to help you master counting cards in blackjack more quickly.

• Practice Makes Perfect: Nothing beats repetition, so the more you try card counting, the more efficient and accurate you will become. You can practice at home using your own decks of cards and simulating a game. You can also find online apps that offer automated simulations to learn card counting, while there are also books you can read to learn about different methods and techniques.
• Master Basic Strategy: Basic blackjack strategy charts show you whether to Hit, Stand, Split, or Double on specific hand totals. For example, should you Hit or Stand if you have a 6 + 8 in your hand? Basic strategy helps you make the best gameplay decisions and is something all players should know. Combining it with card counting makes for a potent combination of safe decision-making based on statistical knowledge.
• Learn It All: Before applying any card counting, you will need to study. Firstly, learn how to play blackjack and all card values and gameplay options. Next, make sure you properly understand what card counting is and how it works.
• Manage Your Bankroll: It is easy to sometimes get into a trap of feeling invincible when you are counting cards. While this method can give you a lot of insight and control, counting cards does not guarantee wins. Do not chase losses and manage your budget by only using money you can afford to lose.
• Online Card Counting: Thinking about bringing your newfound counting skills to online blackjack? That may not be possible because virtual blackjack games use random number generators, which means there are no set cards of decks – it’s all random. Live online casino games do use real cards/decks, but they are constantly being shuffled.

Advanced Card Counting Strategies

Once you know how to count cards and are confident, you may want to expand your repertoire into more advanced techniques:

Back Counting

Back counting is an alternative system where instead of counting all cards, you only focus on the cards dealt face-up. It is easier to learn, and you can apply it by following the steps below:

1. Focus on face-up cards: Only track the cards that the casino deals face-up to you and the dealer.
2. Track high and low cards: Track the face-up cards, keeping a simple count of the high-value (10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace) and low-value cards (2-9) that have been dealt.
3. Adjust your bets: If more high cards have been dealt, lower your bets as your chances of a good hand are decreasing. If there are still more high cards left in the decks, consider increasing your wager as you have more chance of a good hand.

Modified Card Counting Strategies

Modified card counting strategies are different methods for card counting that focus on solving unique problems in the standard technique. For example, modifications could be adjusting card values or betting guidance. Let’s take a look at some examples of modified counting strategies:

• Simplified systems: This methodology focuses on reducing the number of cards you need to track, such as the Back Counting system above. The Ace/Five method is another example.
• Balanced systems: Balanced card counting attempts to reduce fluctuations in your bankroll. Instead of big bet value swings, you make more incremental bet adjustments. Try the Omega II method for a balanced counting system.
• Insurance-based systems: Some systems may introduce insurance bets into card counting strategies.
• Multi-deck systems: While standard card counting accounts for multiple decks, there are systems that put more focus on this challenge. The Knock-Out Count method is a notable example.

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FAQs About Card Counting in Blackjack

• Does counting cards in blackjack work?

Yes, but only to an extent. If you master basic card counting, you definitely gain more knowledge about what cards are in play and can adjust your bets accordingly. However, you never control the next card dealt, so blackjack remains a game of luck, and you cannot directly influence the outcome of your hand.

• Is counting cards in blackjack illegal?

It is not a criminal offense to count cards, as all you are doing is keeping track of cards that have been dealt. In fact, it is not even cheating because you are not unfairly trying to trick the game to win. Even so, most casinos do not like card counting – they will dismiss you if you are caught and potentially ban you from returning.

• What is the formula for counting cards in blackjack?

In blackjack card counting, each card is given a positive, negative, or equal value and you tally up the value based on each card that has been dealt. You then divide the “running count” by the number of decks in play to find the true count. This allows you to assess your chances of winning and adjust your bets accordingly.

• Explore key online blackjack strategies to enhance your gameplay experience and increase your chances of winning.
• Understand the unique aspects of playing blackjack online, such as live dealer games and electronic interfaces.
• Utilize tactics like basic blackjack strategy charts and card counting simulations to improve your decision-making skills.
• Take advantage of casino bonuses and promotions offered by online casinos to boost your bankroll and extend your playing time.
• Stay disciplined with your betting limits and practice responsible gambling habits while enjoying online blackjack.

Mastering an online blackjack strategy can give you skills to boost your odds of winning and extend your bankroll. Below, we will introduce you to the best blackjack strategies and how you can use them to increase your skill and confidence.

Online Blackjack Strategy: Key Principles

Any good online blackjack strategy starts with understanding the basics of the game and learning how to play blackjack online. The good news is that learning blackjack is a relatively easy and combines skill and luck for an exciting casino experience.

Blackjack is a card game that involves multiple decks of cards. You play directly against the dealer to try and get a hand as close to 21 as possible without going over while also having a better value than the dealer. Online blackjack is usually played on between one and eight decks of cards, and both the player and dealer start with two cards.

With those cards, you can choose to “Stand” and only use your current two cards. Alternatively, you can “Hit” and take additional cards to potentially improve your hand. Card values determine the total of your cards, with cards 2 to 10 having their face value. Picture cards (jacks, queens, Kings) are valued at 10, and Aces can be 1 or 11. If you have a hand without an Ace, this is known as a hard hand. Hands with an Ace are known as soft hands.

So, how does this all come together during a game of blackjack? Let’s take a look:

1. A round of blackjack begins with the player placing their bet.
2. The dealer now deals two cards to you and two cards to themselves. Both your cards will be face down, and in most variants, the dealer has one card down and one card face up.
3. Check your cards and decide if you want to Stand or Hit.
4. You can also make other decisions, such as Split pairs or Double Down.
5. Most variant rules state that the dealer must Stand if they have 17 or higher and must Hit if they have less than 17.
6. Both player and dealer reveal their cards, and the winner is the one closest to 21 without going over (Bust).

Are Blackjack Strategies Important?

Blackjack strategies are useful but not necessary to play the game. Even so, whether you are a beginner or expert, a basic blackjack strategy is helpful. The goal of an online blackjack strategy is to give you clear instructions on which gameplay choices to make for each card combination you have. In other words, a blackjack strategy tells you when to Hit, Stand, double down, split, and so on.

Common Blackjack Terms You Need To Know About

Before you start using blackjack strategies, it is important to know classic blackjack jargon you will see often:

• Deal: When the dealer gives you the cards you will use during gameplay.
• Hit: If you want to improve your hand, you “Hit” and receive an additional card.
• Stand: When you are happy with your hand, you “Stand” to stick with the two cards you have.
• Split: A pair of cards with the same values, such as two 5’s, can be “Split” and receive cards for two hands, which you must bet the same amount on.
• Double Down: With some card combinations, you can choose to double the bet.
• Insurance: A side bet where you receive a payout if you lose when the dealer has a face-up Ace card.
• Hole Card: The dealer’s card that faces down is known as the Hole.
• Up Card: The dealer’s card facing up is the Up Card.
• Blackjack: The best winning hand, featuring an ace and a ten, jack, queen, or king (21 in total).
• Surrender: A side bet in some variants where you can “surrender” your hand and get 50% of your bet back.
• Bust: If you or the dealer has a hand that is over the value of 21.

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Online Blackjack Strategy: Basic Blackjack Strategy

When using an online blackjack strategy, you will be given a set of instructions on which actions to take with specific cards/hands. In simple terms, a basic blackjack strategy shows you what to do based on the hands you have. This makes this type of plan excellent for beginners who may not be confident or even experienced players who want more structure in their game.

To make blackjack strategies easy to understand, there are blackjack charts available that simplify all the actions you need to take. Blackjack tables are easy to read, and if you learn them, you can easily make the best gameplay decisions during blackjack hands. Below is an example of a basic blackjack strategy as a chart:

As you can see in the simple chart above, it gives clear instructions on when you should Hit, Stand, Double, or Split. You can also see that the action you take is based on the specific cards you have in your hand. If you do not use a strategy, you will be on your own making gameplay decisions on each hand.

When To Hit And Stand

Scenarios when you should Hit or Stand are extensive, but you can use the following rules as a great starting point when learning how to win online blackjack:

• ALWAYS choose to Hit if you have 11 or lower. It is impossible to bust by taking another card, so you will only be improving your hand. Because there are more than 10 value cards (10, Jack, Queen, or King) in blackjack decks, you have a higher chance of getting one and ending on a good hand.
• In most situations, Stand when you have a hand of 17 or higher. This is a solid value on its own, and the chances of going bust if you Hit are high. More importantly, in most online blackjack variants, the dealer must hit on 17. There is a good chance the dealer will bust while you are sitting pretty on 17+.

What About Splitting?

Two cards of identical value, known as a pair, allow you to choose the Split side bet in many blackjack variants. This is a handy option because you can split these cards into two separate hands. The dealer will now provide two additional cards on the original split pair, creating two separate hands of two cards.

You will also need to double your bet, making a matching wager on your second hand. This can be a good option because you can double your potential payout. However, the trade-off is that in many online variants of blackjack, you must stand on both your new hands.

When to split in blackjack is an important skill, and below are some guidelines to help:

• Face Cards: If you have a pair of Jacks, Queens, Kings, or 10s, you should not split. You already have an excellent hand that is likely to win and give you a payout.
• Aces: Two Aces have a value of 11 and 1, giving you a total of 12. You can Hit your normal hand, but we recommend splitting Aces. With 16 cards with a value of 10 in a single deck four 10s, four Jacks, four Queens, and four Kings), you have a good chance of getting a 10 and 21 on both hands.
• 8s: Most blackjack players hate a hand of 16 made. This value is too low to Stand and high enough to make Hitting risky. If you have two 8s, split them and try to make betting hands with your new cards.

Doubling Down in Blackjack

One of the most popular blackjack side bets is the Double Down. As the name suggests, you will essentially double your bet in an attempt to win a bigger payout. You can double down on any hand, but beating online blackjack involves knowing when to double down or not:

• If your hand is a hard 9 (no ace in the hand) and the dealer has a face-up card of 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, Double Down your bet.
• Double Down when you have a hard hand of 10 or 11 and the dealer has a face-up card less than 10 or 11.
• If you hold a soft hand (an ace in the hand) of 16, 17, or 18 and the dealer’s face-up card shows a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, you can Double Down.
• Avoid doubling your bet if your hand is over 11 or if the dealer has an Ace face up.

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Online Blackjack Strategy: Advanced Blackjack Techniques

Online blackjack strategy can expand beyond charts into different methods and techniques for expanding your gameplay and extending your bankroll. We will cover the more popular below:

Betting Systems

While a normal blackjack strategy provides guidance on which gameplay decisions to make, betting systems tell you which betting actions to take. They give information about what size of bet you should make instead of hand strength. Although, that means that betting systems can be more unreliable.

The Martingale is perhaps the best-known blackjack betting system. It is a negative progression, which means you increase bets when you lose. Specifically, in The Martingale, you double bets on a loss and halve them on a win.

Other important betting systems for blackjack players include the Paroli (positive progression, doubling bets on consecutive wins) and the D’Alembert (negative progression, increasing/decreasing bets by a fixed amount). While betting systems are fun, they do not guarantee wins.

Card Counting

Card counting is a controversial technique that involves tracking the cards dealt in a blackjack game to gain an advantage. It has taken a mythical position in blackjack, but it is actually a real technique. Card counting is not illegal in the US, but land-based casinos still tend to ban people they catch counting cards.

Online casinos avoid the topic by using random number generators (RNGs), but live dealer blackjack can be theoretically counted. However, the live casino game shuffles and swaps decks regularly enough to make counting mostly pointless.

Card counting involves assigning values to cards and tracking the running count. A positive count suggests more high-value cards remain, while a negative count indicates more low-value cards. The true count considers the running count in relation to the remaining decks.

Surrender Strategy

Surrender in blackjack is a side bet available on some variants, allowing the player to “fold” their hand early and receive half their bet back. If your hand is terrible, you will only lose half your wager instead of all of it.

How the surrender option works:

1. Player’s Weak Hand: When the player’s face-up card is a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, and the dealer’s face-up is a 10 or Ace.
2. No Further Play: Once the player surrenders, the hand finishes.

Side Bets

Blackjack purists will tell you that they dislike side bets. However, these bets are a part of many online blackjack variants, so we’ll let you decide if you enjoy them or not. Popular and common blackjack side bets include the following:

• 21+3
• Royal match
• Over/under 13
• Super sevens
• Lucky ladies
• Pair square

One of the important things about side bets is the compromise you make for exciting additional bets, which results in a larger house edge. If you are playing for fun, side bets are interesting. If you focus more on winning, you should avoid these types of bets.

Online Blackjack Strategy: Maximizing Wins in Online Blackjack

We put our team of expert blackjack players to work and asked them to compile the following online blackjack tips and guidelines. Below, you can make the most of online blackjack strategy and see the common pitfalls to avoid:

• Always split pairs of 8s and Aces – Whenever you have a pair of Aces or 8s, split the deck to create two separate hands.
• Double Down a hard 11 – You have a great chance of getting a top hand. The only exception is if the dealer must stand on a soft 17.
• Never split 5s or 10s – A pair of 10s is a total of 20, which is a winning hand in most cases. On 5s, it is worth hitting instead of splitting.
• Never take the Insurance bet – While it seems like a good option, the insurance bet significantly increases the house edge.
• Avoid side bets – Side bets also increase the house edge, which is why most players do not play them.
• Strategies are best: Using a blackjack strategy, even a basic one, provides real statistical outcomes for each hand combination.
• Beware of betting systems: Betting systems can be fun, but they do not guarantee wins and can burn through a bankroll if they do not work.
• Watch your bankroll: As always, play blackjack within your financial means and never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.

Image credit: Kitreel/Shutterstock

Online Blackjack Strategy: Online Blackjack Resources

If you want to expand your blackjack knowledge further, the following resources can help:

• Strategy Calculators: These are tools that assist players by making blackjack strategies more automated. Players input data, and the calculator uses algorithms and stats models to analyze the data and provide recommendations for potential outcomes.
• Training Tools: Using a blackjack training tool can help you boost your hand knowledge and skills of when to Hit, Stand, Split, or Double. Tools provide practice scenarios that let you test strategies in real-game situations.
• Recommended Reading: Check out our other detailed online blackjack strategy guides to learn how to beat online blackjack.

Online Blackjack Strategy: Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there a strategy to online blackjack?

There can be, but it is not necessary. It is possible to play blackjack online with no strategy. However, there are online blackjack strategy methods that enhance gameplay by providing statistic-based gameplay actions and potential outcomes.

• Is online blackjack beatable?

No, blackjack is not a “beatable” game. Yes, you can absolutely win when playing blackjack and even use strategies to increase your chances. However, blackjack is ultimately a game of luck, and the final outcome is always left to random chance.

• Does a basic strategy work on online blackjack?

Yes, and basic blackjack strategy is arguably the best way to play the game. A basic strategy will simply instruct you on when to Hit, Stand, Split, or Double based on the specific cards you have. Information is given in an easy-to-read chart.

• How to consistently win at blackjack?

When learning how to win on blackjack online, you’ll need to understand that blackjack is a game of luck. However, using a basic strategy can give you more control as you have better knowledge of which gameplay actions to take.

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• Ghosting is a form of cheating in online poker where a highly ranked player plays using the account of a less skillful player. This is also called multi-accounting.
• Since players in online poker are normally ranked to make matchmaking fairer. Ghosting allows more experienced and skillful players to take advanced of newer, less experienced players.
• Ghosting online poker can also mean a more experienced player coaching a less experienced player on how to play their hand during an online poker game.
• World class-players such as Bryn Kenney, Ali Imsirovic and Jake Schindler have all been accused of ghosting in order to easy money off other players.
• This article will fully explain what ghosting is in online poker, live dealer poker, or video poker, why it’s a problem, and how to avoid getting caught out by this form of cheating.

If you’re looking to learn about ghosting in online poker, you’ve come to the right page (and no, it’s not when someone you know suddenly cuts off all communication on social media without any explanation). In the world of online poker, ghosting refers to a skilled player taking over for a less experienced user during gameplay.

This sneaky tactic has been on the rise in recent years, prompting operators to take action. Keep reading to learn more about poker ghosting and the measures being used to combat it.

What is Ghosting in Online Poker ?

Cheating in poker can take on many forms, with many high level poker cheating scandals to prove it. However one of the most potent forms is online poker ghosting. In simple terms, ghosting involves a player with higher skill replacing a less skillful player during gameplay.

This could be just for one hand or for extended periods. The most dangerous form of poker ghosting happens in online poker tournament play.

A group may have a tournament specialist ready to jump into the game when another player in the group reaches a higher stage in the tournament, such as the final table. When this happens, the expert will enter the game and use their ability to get the best results and potentially win the tournament.

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Why is Online Poker Ghosting a Problem?

Poker is one of the few online casino games where skill is an element of gameplay. An experienced or high-skill player will make more intelligent betting decisions, play the best poker hands more accurately, and be more subtle with bluffing.

Any group of players who can call upon such a skillful player will give themselves an unfair advantage. Of course, if the skilled player were to join the tournament at the start, that would be fine. Instead, cheating occurs when the skilled player replaces another without the other participants knowing. That is why all top online poker platforms ban ghosting and deem it to be cheating.

Online Poker Ghosting ‘Stables’

On the surface, ghosting would not be a major issue in poker if it was a casual occurrence. However, because ghosting is possible in online poker, there is a real danger, and it is becoming increasingly common. In fact, there are professional-level poker players who have put together “stables” of mediocre players that they stake. Vice versa, less-skilled players have recruited experts to be their ghost player.

Stables will send the weaker players into the initial stages of big-money online poker tournaments. These players may still be good enough to get through early rounds and build big stacks. When the stable player manages to go deep into the tournament, the ghosting poker expert will take over and compete in the latter stages or final table.

So-called “grindhouses” have become increasingly common, hosting dozens of players who will literally grind online poker tournaments in attempts to go deep into the competition. This has become enough of a problem that some estimates suggest the grindhouses are making millions by cheating.

The situation was thrown into the spotlight when legendary tournament player Bryn Kenney was alleged to be operating a stable of players.

Types of Online Poker Ghosting

Poker ghosting can happen in several ways beyond stables and in tournaments. Below are the types of ghosting that online casinos prohibit:

• Joining an online poker room in the middle of a game and allowing someone else to play for you.
• Agreeing to play for someone else during an online game or tournament.
• Contacting an experienced player and having them give you poker tips during gameplay. This form of poker ghosting online is almost impossible to detect.
• Using two accounts simultaneously during the same game to trick opponents into thinking there are two players.

Risks and Consequences of Poker Ghosting

Poker ghosting is a massive issue for online poker rooms, be they video poker, live poker dealer or fully virtual games, not least because it is extremely hard to detect when it is happening. Even if the site can detect ghosting, proving it is even more difficult. That’s because many poker players have unique styles of play that they change interchangeably. In other words, it is hard to know if there are two different players or just one player using distinctive styles.

While finding concrete proof that someone is ghosting rather than simply playing differently is impossible, online casinos don’t need proof. These operators are free to ban players whenever they want and for any reason. If they even suspect a player is poker ghosting, that player is likely to lose their account and be banned.

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Why Should You Avoid Ghosting Poker Players?

Online poker casinos are also turning to simple campaigns to warn players to avoid ghosting. For novice players, the idea of drafting an expert player to win a tournament can be appealing. Likewise, skilled players creating stables of players who go deep into competition could make gathering prize money easier.

However, the reality of poker ghosting is that it hurts the poker room, but more importantly, it harms your fellow players. It is not only considered cheating and a bannable offense by poker operators but also unethical. If you are handing your deep tournament performances to a better player, you will also not be learning the theory, like ICM in poker, improve your own game.

Your skills will never improve, and you will never experience the excitement of playing at a real money poker tournament. Of course, if you are caught or suspected of ghosting, the poker room or casino will ban you and block your account. In cases where someone is caught multiple times, sites may even share information, making it hard for you to have accounts with any online poker provider.

Detecting and Reporting Ghosting Behavior: Protecting Yourself Online

To help find cheaters, poker sites are increasingly turning to AI, which will automatically search for anomalies in player style. Because of how hard it is to definitively spot ghosting poker techniques, it can be difficult for players to get involved with detecting ghosting. Even so, there are some things you can do:

• If you encounter a player more than once in a tournament and their playing style is drastically different, this can raise some concerns.

• Is there a player on your table who seems to be of much higher skill than anyone else? Remember, poker ghosting involves drafting a top player to complete a tournament.

• Do you see the same player winning multiple tournaments over a short time? Admittedly, the online poker room will likely spot this before you.

• You can report your suspicions to the online poker operator. Whether it is through live chat or email, your report should include the player’s name, the games you suspect cheating, and dates.

Avoiding This New Style of Online Poker Cheating

Ghosting poker techniques are an increasingly common form of cheating and have become more dangerous for poker rooms and players. Remember, ghosting in poker is harming other players, so never be tempted to engage in this method. Doing so could also lead to you being banned from the poker room.

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In a case that has quickly become one of the most infamous cases in gambling history, Katrina Bookman entered Resorts World Casino in New York and hit a win for almost $43 million!?

But when she came to withdraw what would have been record slot winnings, she was informed by a casino employee that the slot machine had malfunctioned, and she had won nothing.

What could have become the biggest slot machine jackpot in US history soon became an unparalleled ordeal for Bookman…

The Katrina Bookman Story: What Actually Happened at the Casino?

On that fateful day over six years ago, Bookman headed to Resorts World Casino in New York.

She was playing Sphinx Wild, a popular slot game by a reputable software provider, and put just 40 cents into the machine.

It’s impossible to imagine how she must have felt when the machine alerted her to a jackpot win of $42.9 million.

Hitting the big time that day in late August 2016, Bookman saw the luck for her whole family change – earmarking $1 million for her aspiring barber son. Envisioning his dreams of a family barbershop come to fruition, she could barely wait to tell him the news.

“You Didn’t Win Nothing“

However, the slot machine’s alarm bells were no match for those in Bookman’s head when she joyously went to collect her winnings.

Turning her away empty-handed, casino management asked her to review the venue’s “official ruling” and return the following morning. Disturbed, as she turned to return home, she overheard a staff member saying Bookman “didn’t win nothing.”

After a sleepless night, Bookman returned to Resorts World Casino clutching the winning ticket.

To her horror, she was instead offered a complimentary steak dinner and the alleged $2.25 Sphinx Wild winnings she was owed, thanks to a machine malfunction.

This would be a heartbreaking result for anyone, but it was particularly hard news for Bookman – raised in foster care, homeless as a teenager and later a single mom to four kids – to take, as she hasn’t had it easy in life.

“I kept thinking about my family. The struggle I’ve been through; it’s hard to cope,” she told WABC in a tearful interview.

For someone who could really do with a break, the machine’s malfunction seemed particularly cruel.

Katrina Bookman: The Court Case

Bookman turned the casino down and instead took them up on a date at the Queens County Supreme Court, where she aimed to sue Resorts World Casino, partners Genting New York LLC, and software provider IGT for $42,949,672.76 in damages. 

What would have been the largest slot machine jackpot in US history was fast becoming a record-breaking nightmare.

Bookman, who was denied the full payout, cited that the torment of the saga affected her nervous system and left her “embarrassed, anxious and depressed.” 

Her attorney Alan Ripka challenged the accused, arguing that she was entitled to $6,500 (the maximum slot machine win) at the bare minimum. “The machine takes your money when you lose. It ought to pay it when you win,” retorted Ripka.

However, the defendant refused the claim, instead apologizing to Bookman for the inconvenience the ‘malfunction’ had caused. 

“You can’t claim a machine is broken because you want it to be broken,” Alan Ripka told CNNMoney.

“Does that mean it wasn’t inspected? Does it mean it wasn’t maintained? And if so, does that mean people that played there before [Bookman] had zero chance of winning?”

The New York State Gaming Commission said the machine had been displaying a disclaimer that read: “Malfunctions void all pays and plays.”

Checking out Resorts World’s casino floor games menu, the legendary Sphinx Wild machine is still earning its keep to this day amongst the thousands of titles in the New York complex.

Not only that – there are even updated variations of the slot now available, such as Sphinx and Sphinx 3D.

Where Is Katrina Bookman Now?

Unfortunately, there was no happy ending for Katrina Bookman. After delays to the case due to Covid, a judge at Queens County Supreme Court eventually ruled in favor of the defendants.

The reality was, the machine malfunctioned and the machine did display the following warning message to all players:

Malfunctions void all pays and plays

Can a Casino Just Refuse to Pay Out?

If there is a genuine malfunction with the machine, then, sadly, yes.

In a historical example of a similar trial, Pauline McKee, a 90-year-old grandmother from Illinois, was spinning her way to slot heaven on the Miss Kitty game at the Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo.?

To her astonishment, she rang in a slot jackpot of $41 million. 

Enjoying casino games throughout her life, the seasoned gambler was skeptical but had high hopes of being proven wrong.

Much like Bookman, McKee was damningly told that she had not won a dime close to the supposed jackpot due to a slot machine malfunction, so the argument was taken to the Iowa Supreme Court.

Unfortunately, the defendant (Isle Casino Hotel) won the case, claiming that on-screen rules state that ‘Malfunction voids all pays and plays.’ 

Though devastating, real-life examples are sometimes necessary to remind gamblers that random number generators (RNGs) operate the wins of slot machines.

You can’t predict their outcome, with big losses just as likely (if not more) than massive jackpot wins.

Plus, with daily wear and tear, this makes occasional technical malfunctions just as likely as moderate jackpots that do pay out. 

Regardless, we hope fortune shines in Katrina Bookman’s favor and this high roller hell doesn’t taint her fighting spirit.

For more slots scandals, check out our article on Brian Christopher.

Lead image: Katrina Bookman via WABC

• The vig comes from the Russian word vyigrysh and refers to the commission charged by a sports book on all bets.
• The vig is also known as the juice, cut, edge, or rake. In casinos, it also known as the house edge.
• The term ‘vig’ has also entered popular culture as the periodic payment owed to a loan shark.
• Knowing what the vig is for each sportsbook and how to calculate the vig is important to understanding how much money you stand to make on any bet.

Vig – short for vigorish – refers to the house edge that is built into every sports bet. It’s essentially a small commission that ensures the sportsbook makes money no matter the outcome of the bet. Understanding how gambling vig works is essential for making sports bets because it impacts the long-term success of your wagers.

Origin and Meaning of Vig in Gambling

Vigorish, vig, juice, cut, edge, rake; no matter what you call it, they all mean the same thing. The vig gambling term is thought to be derived from the Russian word “vyigrysh”, which means “gain” or “winnings”. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, its earliest known appearance in print was in the 1960s.

The shortened “vig” can also refer to the interest owed to a loan shark. Picture this: I borrow money from Big Tony and forget to pay back the vig. The next thing I know, he’s threatening to break my knees. Unsurprisingly, this usage was popularized by the Italian-American Mafia.

How to Calculate the Vig

Every sportsbook bet already has the vig embedded in the odds. If you’re a casual bettor, online gambling for a bit of fun, there’s no need for you to calculate the vig, especially if you’re choosing your sportsbook based on how much you like the site instead of the quality of the odds.

However, if you’re a seasoned sports wagerer who is betting for long-term profit, calculating the gambling vig can help you make informed betting choices and (hopefully) increase your overall profit. The vig can vary between sportsbooks, so it’s good practice to compare sites and opt for the lowest edge.

Below is a formula that you can use to calculate the vig yourself.

• (Favorite odds / (Favorite odds + 100) x 100) + (100 / (Underdog odds + 100) x 100) – 100

The Vig in Online Gambling

The vig looks different at an online sportsbook compared to a casino. At a casino, it’s hidden away within the game’s RTP. You’ll need to open up and scroll through the paytable to find the RTP amount. As discussed above, the sportsbook vig is a little more obvious, as it’s embedded in the odds of every bet.

There’s not much difference between the vig at online sportsbooks/casinos and brick-and-mortar sportsbooks/casinos. Just like their digital counterparts, retail sportsbooks will build the vig into the odds. Similarly, every brick-and-mortar slot machine arrives at the casino with a built-in RTP percentage, while games like American Roulette and Caribbean Stud also have a predetermined RTP.

Image credit: Kitreel/Shutterstock

Types of Vig in Gambling

Spread Betting Vig

A spread bet is the difference in the predicted points between two teams. The favorite is represented by a minus number, and has to score more than the spread for your bet to win. Meanwhile, the underdog has a plus and must lose within this number of points or win. Spreads on games like baseball often have a decimal (0.5) to avoid pushes, as many baseball games end with less than two runs between the teams.

Spread bets differ from over/unders as they focus on the difference in points between the two teams rather than predicting if the total number of points scored will be above or below the specified threshold. The spread bet vig is built into the odds, which typically range from -120 to +100. It’s important to remember that the odds and the spread are two separate entities.

Moneyline Vig

A moneyline is a bet on the result of the game. Since there is only one possible outcome – a win or a loss – they are one of the most straightforward sports bets available. Like all other bet types, the moneyline vig is built into the odds.

Though moneyline bets are perhaps the most simple, research has proven that they can also be the most efficient and prosperous. Since you’re wagering on a pretty black-or-white outcome, odds for moneyline bets – which already have the vig included – can be crazy, with some underdogs reaching into the thousands.

Sportsbook Vig

Every sportsbook bet incorporates a vig. The vig, to both the sportsbook and its bettors, is the most important part of the operation. It can determine whether or not you can sustain a long-term profit, and it ensures that the sportsbook doesn’t lose money when bettors win big.

Casino Vig

It’s very unlikely that you’ll come across the term “vig” at an online casino. Instead, casinos use the phrase “house edge” to describe the advantage that the house has over the bettor. Unlike a sportsbook vig, which is determined by the sportsbook itself, the house edge is already built into the game by the software developer.

Every game has a house edge, whether you’re playing slots, blackjack, or roulette. Most casino players are familiar with the Return to Player (RTP) percentage, which is the theoretical amount the casino will return to players over thousands of slot spins or game rounds. The RTP reflects the player’s perspective on how much they may win back, and the house edge is the remaining percentage. For example, if I select a game with a 95% RTP, then the house edge is 5%.

Image credit: New Africa/Shutterstock

Impact of Vig on Gambling

Not all sportsbooks will apply the same vig to the same bet; you’ll often find a noticeable difference between sites. That’s why it’s important to understand exactly how big of an impact vig can have on your bet. Don’t take it for granted that you’ll earn the same amount from every sportsbook!

The vig is a consequential factor to consider if you’re betting with a strategy. Let’s take a look at how different vigs can impact a $100 wager.

• +100 odds = $100 potential profit
• -105 odds = $95.24 potential profit
• -110 odds = $90.91 potential profit
• -115 odds = $86.98 potential profit
• -120 odds = $83.33 potential profit
• -125 odds = $80 potential profit

Strategies to Mitigate the Vig

Unfortunately, you can’t escape the vig. Just like you pay for goods in a shop, you’ve got to pay the sportsbook for the pleasure of using its platform. Ultimately, players must accept that it’s an inherent and unavoidable part of sports betting.

That said, there are some strategies you can implement that might help you lower the financial impact of the vig.

• Compare lines across sportsbooks. For example, let’s say I see two sportsbooks offering the same bet, but one has +115 odds, and the other has +120. I’ll get $5 more for betting with the second sportsbook if my $100 bet pays out. Though it’s only five bucks, these little differences can have a big impact over time.
• Look for reduced vig. Sportsbooks often run reduced vig promotions during popular games to draw bettors away from their competitors. Seeking out these reduced vig offers can lessen the sportsbook’s cut of your wager.
• Improve your win rate. This one sounds like a no-brainer, and obviously, it’s impossible to guarantee a win every time. But by improving your win rate – even on smaller bets with only a few cents or dollars of profit – you will end up at the stage where you’re beating the vig.
• Claim a bonus. Beyond reduced vig, most sportsbooks, like online casinos, offer a range of promotions like bonus bets, odds boosts, bet insurance, and more. Claiming a bonus will allow you to try bigger bets and score bigger wins. They’ll also give beginners the opportunity to try wagering and understand the vig before spending real cash.

Unlocking the Vig: How It Shapes the Dynamics of Gambling

All in all, vig is a very significant part of the gambling landscape. Looming over your shoulder like Monday morning on a Sunday night, the vig is an unwanted but inescapable part of your sportsbook experience. You can’t run, you can’t hide – the vig will always be there.

Therefore, it’s essential to implement a few tactics to keep its impact to a minimum. Comparing lines across different sportsbooks, searching for reduced vig offers, and keeping your eye out for sportsbook promotions will help mitigate the vig in the long run. Hopefully, this page has cleared up the big question of what does vig mean in gambling.

Title Image credit: Wpaddington/Shutterstock

The Essentials

• A philanthropist of picks and parlays, Dan Gamble AI, also known as DanGamble, is like the Robin Hood of the sports betting industry. Not only does he take from the rich (sportsbooks) and give to the poor (bettors), but he does so anonymously.
• As an AI engineer, he uses predictive models based on past data to pick potential winners in the future.
• Though he goes by the name of Dan, the engineer in question posts all of his predictions from an unnamed account. Rather than a real name, ‘Dan’ is actually a reference to the ChatGPT DAN prompt, “Do Any Thing”. Without a face or name attached to the account, Dan Gambles AI remains a total enigma.

How is he Using AI for Sports Betting?

Dan Gamble AI has designed a unique algorithm with which he can predict the outcome of various sports events and consequently build a data-backed bet sheet.

First, he decides which sport to focus on. Depending on the time of year, this will be the NFL, NBA, MLB, etc. He also determines what type of bet he is looking to predict, such as prop bets, parlays, and Over/Unders.

Dan then feeds this information into his AI algorithm. After receiving the necessary prompt, AI rapidly analyzes years of historical data to give detailed forecasts on the outcome of a specific event. In a way, it is similar to historical horse racing (HHR) games, which use historical racing data to determine wagering outcomes.

Once he has collected the data and used it to make his predictions, Dan places his bets on bet365. Whether this is down to personal preference or a strategic partnership is not entirely clear, but he regularly encourages his followers to sign up and claim a bonus using the links in his Instagram bio.

bet365 isn’t the only sportsbook he’s advertised. Back in February, DanGamble posted an Instagram slideshow highlighting the different sign-up bonuses available at BetMGM, Caesars, and BetRivers. During the NBA playoffs in April, the Dan Gamble AI Twitter account encouraged users to tail his parlay on DraftKings and claim the sportsbook’s welcome bonus.

Image Credit: Davizro Photography/Shutterstock

Is he Able to Pick Winners?

Most of Dan’s AI Sports Picks focus on prop bets and Overs/Unders. However, he also has a history of successfully picking winning teams and individual player bets. If you ever need visual evidence that his picks are winners, check out the Dans AI Sports Picks Twitter and Instagram accounts. All bets that pay out are posted with his signature celebration: “BAAANG.”

Dan’s AI algorithm has a track record of predicting winning prop bets, though it’s obviously not foolproof. While Dan does the work and posts his predictions online, it’s up to his followers whether or not they choose to tail the bets.

During Dan’s impressive MLB run of winners in July, one follower chose to put his faith in one of Dan’s 3 leg parlays. The parlay predicted a home run for Jeimer Candelario, a home run for Shohei Ohtani, and 2+ bases for Christian Walker.

The first two hit, and the cash out was over $6,400. Dan reposted the bet sheet, asking what his other followers would do in this case. Although the original bettor asked for his advice, Dan refrained from offering any. 

Ultimately, the follower decided to see the parlay through, and it paid off. His original $350 wager cashed out at an eye-watering $16,036. So yes, it’s fair to say that Dan’s AI sports picks can produce winners!

How Consistently is Dan’s AI Model Correct?

Though he has only been active online since June 2023, Dan’s AI predictions have already proven highly successful. According to his Instagram bio, Dan’s AI Sports Picks had a 73% hit rate on the NFL last season. That’s almost three out of four predictions coming true.

He also had quite a mind-blowing run during the first half of the 2024 MLB season, particularly with his “Pick of the Day” predictions. Six out of seven of his mid-July “Pick of the Day” players were winners, 11/13 of his June selections cashed out, and 8/9 of his May predictions rang true.

While the algorithm does have an impressive success rate, there is never a guarantee that these predictions will be correct. AI can forecast outcomes based on data and trends but doesn’t factor in variables like human error or injury.

On January 17th, 2024, Dans Gamble AI took to Twitter (X) to express his disappointment over numerous failed NFL predictions.

“No denying it was a tough weekend, but we’ve cashed in plenty during the NFL season. Three weekends left of Football, let’s make sure they’re good ones. For now, it’s time to bounce back on a 10-game NBA slate…”

Do You Have to be an AI Engineer to do What he is Doing?

Successfully predicting the outcome of a sports event may seem like an awfully complicated process. However, Dan Gamble AI often posts about the prompts and instructions he uses, and they’re not quite as complex as you’d imagine.

Some of Dan’s AI sports picks strategies include:

• Analyzing historical data to calculate player minute projections
• Using various data points to rank player props and produce an AI Edge score out of 10
• Predicting stat lines on points, rebounds, and assists for key players
• Calculating which players rate highly on alternate lines and which will go Over/Under

Of course, you need to know what you’re looking for when using AI for prediction betting. While you don’t necessarily need to be an AI engineer, you need to thoroughly understand how sports betting works, including sports odds, bet types, game rules, and markets. You also need to know how to leverage AI for sports betting predictions.

AI technology used to be available only to IT engineers and mathematical geniuses, but it’s gradually becoming more accessible to the general public. Sites like ChatGPT can help the everyday Joe back his bets with statistical data and trend forecasts (if you know how to use them).

Is AI going to be picking our winners for us in the future?

Dan Gamble AI isn’t the first person to use artificial intelligence for sports betting predictions, and he certainly won’t be the last. Jimmy Sports Picks, Joey’s Sports Bets, John Hyslop, Quentin Locks, and Dr. Profit are just a few of the other gambling figureheads encouraging people to put their trust in AI.

As AI advances and becomes more mainstream, it’s likely that more bettors will begin to use AI for their own sports betting predictions. Until then, you can tail one of the AI engineers and see if their calculations ring true. After all, Dan’s AI Sports Picks announced that 2024 will be his “most profitable NFL season yet”.

The Essentials

• The aim of the Big 2 card game is to get rid of all your cards as fast as possible. Popular across Asia, this easy-to-learn card game uses common poker hands and is similar to other card-shedding games like President or Crazy Eights.
• The game is called Big 2 because the 2 is the highest ranked card, taking the place of the Ace in most poker hands. The Chinese name (Choh Dai Di) translates directly as ‘Big Old Two‘.
• Big 2 game turns start of the lead player laying a single card or a poker hand. The other players take turns ‘shedding’ higher ranking variations of that hand until no more cards can be shed. The player who played the highest hand then plays the first hand of the round.
• The game ends when one player has no cards and scores a perfect zero. The other players lose points based on how many cards they have in their hands. The aim of the game is to keep your score as low as possible.

How to Play The Big 2 Card Game: The Basics

The Big 2 card game is a complex game that has multiple options and gameplay elements. You can learn how to play Big 2 by following the standard round gameplay below:

• Shedding: Players can choose to “shed” cards. This is the main point of Big 2, as the goal is to shed all your cards before other players. You can shed cards based on hand rankings, but only one time per turn. This is why it is important that you know the hand rankings you can shed when you learn how to play Big 2 (see the next section in this guide).
• Leading: The “Lead” is essentially the player who sheds first. All cards that are shed will go into a communal pile. When no more players can shed, the pile is removed, and a new pile starts. This time, the last player to shed will become the Lead.
• Climbing: When shedding to the pile, players must improve the ranking of the previous shed. This is known as the “Climb”, as the next cards on the pile will always rank higher than the previous cards. For example, you could play a Pair (6 6) on a lower pair (4 4). Players cannot go over a leading combination. So, if the previous shed was a single, you can only “Climb” by adding a higher-ranking single.

Gameplay now continues with players shedding cards or passing when they cannot shed. This will happen until the first player sheds all their cards and wins the round. If the players continue in subsequent rounds, the remaining three players will have penalty points for the cards they have left in their hands.

When learning how to play Big 2, the first step is understanding the value of cards. The game jumbles traditional hand values you know when then you learn the poker rules.

After the 2, the next highest ranking cards are A, K, Q, J, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3. However, Big 2 also ranks suits, with Spades being the most valuable, followed by Hearts, Clubs, and Diamonds (>>>).

How to Set up a Big 2 Game

Each Big 2 card game starts with the deal. This is also the most complex part of the game, but luckily, a Big 2 online poker game will handle the deal automatically. In online live dealer games will be the house, and in casual games offline, the dealer is chosen at random. Cards are dealt counter-clockwise to all players.

Once all cards from a standard 52-card deck (13 to each player) have been dealt, the round will begin. Big 2 card game rules state that the player who first receives their cards will take the first turn and have the chance to shed cards. Some Big 2 card game variants may start the gameplay with the player with the lowest card ranking.

Image credit: Ramosh Artworks/Shutterstock

Big 2 Card Combinations: What is a Winning Hand?

Card combinations in Big 2 allow you to shed cards more quickly. Known as melds, the combinations can be put onto the pile if they are leading the previous shed. The highest value suit of any combination will dictate the overall suit.

Below are the most common combinations:

COMBINATION	EXAMPLE	RANK (LOW TO HIGH)
Singles	3	Lowest
Doubles	4 4	Low
Triples	6 6 6	Medium-Low
Snakes	6 7 8 9 10	Medium
Flowers	2 3 Q 6 K	Medium
Gourd	J J J 5 5	Medium-High
Bomb	7 7 7 7	High
Straight Flush	9 10 J Q K	Highest

• Singles: This is a single card according to its rank and suit.
• Pairs/Doubles: A pair of cards of the same value. Doubles can be different suits, with the highest ranking suit covering the meld.
• Three-Kinds/Triples: A combination of three cards with the same rank.
• Straights/Snakes: Like the classic five-card poker hand made of card values in ascending order.
• Flushes/Flowers: Five cards of the same suit but any rank.
• Full House/Gourd: A five-card combination comprising a Pair and Triple.
• Four-Kind/Bomb: Four cards of the same rank, with a fifth “kicker” card included as a single.
• Straight Flush: As the best possible shedding meld, this is when five cards of the same suit are in ascending order of value.

Big 2 Scoring: Hand Ranking and How to Win

Importantly, in most situations, the Big 2 card game is played over multiple rounds in a points-based system. Whether the set score or time limit is met, the player with the best score will win the game. This is a losing points game, as there is no way to gain points, and 0 is a winning total.

If a player sheds all their cards, the remaining players are fined one penalty point for each remaining card they have.

There are also additional penalties. If you still have 10 to 12 cards in your hand, your penalty total will be doubled. 13 cards remaining means you could not shed one card throughout the round, and you will receive a tripled 39 penalty points.

Image credit: Ramosh Artworks/Shutterstock

The Big 2 Edge: Strategies to Outplay Your Opponents

Before you start playing Big 2, our experts have outlined a few of their top tips to help enhance your gameplay and potentially improve your chances of winning.

• If you lead the pile, always discard/shed your highest-ranking combination first. It may be tempting to wait, but it is always best to shed your cards as soon as you can.
• Leading the pile means you will control the combination for the whole game. If you play the highest possible first-shedding round, you could make it hard for other players to shed.
• When you are not leading, try to gauge what your opponents have in their hands by looking closely at what cards they are shedding.

Advanced Big 2 Card Game Techniques

If you want to take your Big 2 gameplay to the next level, you may want to explore more advanced strategies. Because only one deck of cards is used, Big 2 is a game where it is reasonably possible to count cards. You’ll need a great memory, but you already know the cards you have, which means there are 41 other cards to track.

As gameplay progresses, you can see which cards your opponents are shedding. If you can track these cards, you will have a better idea of which cards are left. While knowing the cards left in play will not directly lead to you winning, it can help you make more informed decisions about when to shed or pass.

How to Gamble When Playing A Big 2 Card Game

As with any game that with a defined winner that plays in round, Big 2 can be gambled on. Gambling when playing Big 2 is common and very popular across Asia. Since the Chinese invented playing cards, its not surprising that they’ve got a long history of inventing amazing games and way to gamble on them.

Some of the different way in which you can gamble when playing Big 2 include:

• Betting on who has the highest ranked poker hand in any round
• Betting on the round winner
• Betting on the overall winner
• The losing player forfeiting money to the winning player based on how many cards they have left in their hand at the end of the game.

The Big 2 card game is available online but is admittedly not as common as other games. Even so, you can find online casino sites and other online platforms that allow you to play real money Big 2 from the comfort of your couch. This gives you the ability to play directly against another player in live dealer variants or virtually against a computer.

Big 2 Conquest: Triumphing with Skill and Strategy

Despite it seeming like a basic shedding game, the reason that Big 2 is so popular in Asia is because its simple to learn, but challenging to master. Once you have a good grasp of poker hands, you can employ advanced techniques like card counting to win.

However, while it makes for a perfect alterative to poker on gambling night, its just as fun as a relaxing card game with friends!

Title Image credit: Ramosh Artworks/Shutterstock

What is the Dead Man’s Hand in Poker?

• The dead man’s hand is a poker hand containing two black aces and two black eights alongside a face down kicker card.
• This most famous of poker hands entered popular culture because it was the cards in Wild Bill Hickock’s hand when he was shot.
• Since Wild Bill’s untimely death, aces and eights has been considered an unlucky hand in poker.
• While you’re unlikely to get shot if your dealt aces and eights in your next game, it is a marginal hand that take a little skill to play properly
• This guide will take you through the history behind the dead man’s hand and how to play it when you get dealt it.

With plenty of legends and intrigue behind this poker hand, we are here to unlock all the secrets. Read on as we guide you through what the dead man’s hand is, its origins, composition, and whether this poker hand is worth playing.

The Legend of the Dead Man’s Hand and Wild Bill

While the exact meaning of the dead man’s hand has been debated, the origins are well documented. It comes from the legend of the notorious lawman James Butler “Wild Bill” Hickock, who was shot dead while he held a specific poker hand. A known gambler, the hand Hickock was holding when he met his end has become known as bad luck.

According to the story, Wild Bill was playing real money poker on a table alongside Jack “Crooked Nose” McCall and several other players. McCall lost his whole pot, mostly to Bill Hickock. Wild Bill took an honorable stance and told McCall he would buy him breakfast and that he should not play again until he could pay back the money.

McCall was angered by this and came back drunk to see Wild Bill still playing cards at. Hickok was known for sitting in the corner because he was paranoid someone would try to kill him.

However, on that day, another player would not give up their corner seat at the poker table, so Bill played with his back to the door. Given the popularity of online poker and video poker, this is less of a problem for the modern player.

As McCall approached, he drew his Colt .45 and shot Wild Bill in the head while shouting, “Damn you! Take that!” And so, one of the most iconic and lasting legends in the history of poker was set.

Why Are Aces And 8s in The Dead Man’s Hand?

As legends have a habit of doing, the details are murky. The exact hand Wild Bill was holding is unknown, and there is a lot of debate about the hand. Even so, when superstitious poker players hold the dead man’s hand, they see it as bad luck.

The fateful day happened on August 2, 1876, and it did not take long for the word of the dead man’s hand to spread through the Old West and beyond. The first mentions of the hand were on record in 1886, but then it was described as a full house of three jacks and two tens. These days, most players see the dead man’s hand as two black aces and two black eights.

Over the last 150 years, there have been other interpretations of what the dead man’s hand is. However, the modern understanding came from the 1920s in a biography of Bill Hickock, Wild Bill Hickok: The Prince of Pistoleers. 

Whether today’s definition of the hand is accurate or not, the two black aces and two black eights have become the best-known interpretation.  

Image credit: Armi1961 Photo/Shutterstock

The Dead Man’s Hand: How to Factor it into Your Poker Strategy

There may be a time during your online poker gameplay when you get the dead man’s hand. If you are an incredibly superstitious player, you may just fold the hand and move on. But that’s probably not the best poker strategy.

There is nothing wrong at all with playing this famous hand the next time you’re at a casino. The real question is whether the dead man’s hand is good or not.

Well, it is a middle-ground hand that is neither terrible nor excellent. Two pairs of higher-ranking cards is a decent hand, especially if you get the hand on the flop and can chase a full house or three of a kind. However, if you play through the round, two pairs is not a high-value hand.

Playing with the dead man’s hand can be interesting because you can potentially catch an opponent who’s trying to bluff with a low hand. With the dead man’s hand, a player will compete well with players holding a pair, such as 10-10, 9-9, 7-7, or 6-6. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid With the Dead Man’s Hand

During a game of Texas Hold’em, Ace-Eight is what we consider a marginal hand. How you choose to play will depend on which type of player you are:

• In a late position, it is likely that you will call, but there is potential to raise if you fancy a risk. However, some players will simply fold this hand away from the start, and not for superstitious reasons.
• For example, if the player leading raises, it is probably best to fold the A-8. As mentioned, if the hand does not hit with an A-8 to form the dead man’s hand after the flop, you will be left on a high ace.
• Of course, you may get an ace in the flop for a pair, but while that is a high pair, the low 8 puts a lot of risk on playing on, especially during a hand where other players are raising.

It’s not a Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Hand

It is worth noting that Wild Bill was reportedly playing 5-card stud when he was shot, which is a variation Omaha poker, with a greater number of hole cards. This version of poker would be more rewarding to the dead man’s hand. You would have all five cards in your hand, so the Aces and Eights pairs would already be there. This would be a good hand in 5-card stud, so Hickok may have been holding winning cards in his hand.

It may seem like we class the dead man’s hand as a poor combination, but that is not the case. In fact, the average winning hand in Hold’em is two pairs. Bearing that in mind, Aces and Eights is a solid hand to have in either live or online poker. Even so, it comes with risk because it does not take much for an opponent to have a higher ranking.

The Dead Man’s Hand for Beginners

For poker beginners, this makes the dead man’s hand a bit of a dangerous hand. On the one hand, it looks like an excellent combination, with two pairs and one pair being Aces.

Experienced players with a good poker strategy know how to weigh the risk with potential reward, understanding the possible dangers of this hand. However, beginners may just see what they think is a very good hand and bet high on it.

Remember that while a solid hand, the dead man’s hand is not spectacular.

What is The Significance of The Dead Mans Hand?

One of the most famous hands in poker, the dead man’s hand conjures plenty of superstition and interest. It also plays an important role in poker history. Don’t throw this hand away because of legend; the dead man’s hand can still potentially win you pots.

Wild Bill may not have had much luck meeting his end while holding this hand, but hopefully, the dead man’s hand can help you walk away with the pot.

Title Image credit: Semmic Photo/Shutterstock

Who Has The Most Gold Medals? The Essentials

• The USA is the country widely predicted to earn the most gold medals at the Olympics at the 2024 Summer Olympics. They are also the country with the most gold medals at a whopping 1061!
• The current host of the Summer Olympics is France, who are expected to leverage the home field advantage to come third, adding to their excising tally of 223 Olympic gold medals.
• The UK is also a good bet to win at least one gold medal. They’ve taken home 284 since the beginning of the modern games and are the only country to have won at least one gold in every games since they restarted in 1896.
• In this guide, we’ll look at which country has the most Olympic gold medals by country and if they look set to earn more.

After a grand (and somewhat rainy) opening ceremony, the Paris 2024 Olympics are officially underway. There are more than 200 countries competing in this year’s celebration, each athlete representing the absolute pinnacle of sporting success in their country.

However, of the thousands of world-class athletes competing, only the very best can win an Olympic gold medal and claim their rightful place on the coveted podium.

The Olympic Games instill a sense of national pride like no other event can. So, we’re here to answer the one question on everybody’s mind: which country will win the highest number of Olympic medals at the Olympics?

Most Olympic Gold Medals by County

USA: Number of Gold Olympic Medals: 1061

In a forecast that’s surprising to nobody, the USA is predicted to bring home the highest number of Olympic medals for the fourth consecutive year. The US continuously performs well across the table, including in athletics, swimming, gymnastics, diving, basketball, tennis, wrestling, and shooting. This is largely due to the enormous pool of athletes in its 50 states.

Michael Phelps is the athlete with the most Olympic gold medals. The US swimmer holds the world record for winning Olympic gold medals with huge tally of 23.

Team USA’s star-studded lineup features not one but two (at least) strong contenders in many of its sports. Simone Biles and Sunisa Lee (gymnastics), LeBron James and Steph Curry (basketball), Sha’Carri Richardson and Noah Lyles (100m), Katie Ledecky and Caleb Dressel (swimming), and Caitlin Simmers and Carissa Moore (surfing) are some of the top US athletes to watch in the 2024 Olympics.

The USA is also a firm favorite among bettors, with sportsbooks offering specials like Noah Lyles to win gold and set a new Olympic record. 

China: Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 263

In second place behind the US, China is forecast to win the most gold medals at the Olympics this year. China is the leading country for the number of table tennis, badminton, and trampoline gymnastics medals.

However, the highest number of total medals per sport comes from diving (81 total, 47 golds), artistic gymnastics (69 total, 29 golds), and shooting (67 total, 26 golds).

China’s female athletes are forecast to dominate in their sports, with Wu Yanni (100m hurdles), Sun Yingsha (table tennis), Qun Hongchan (diving), Huang Yuting (shooting), and Zheng Qinwen (tennis) all highly anticipated to go for the gold. Shi Zhiyong (weightlifting) and Shi Yuqi (badminton) are also expected to shine on the Olympic stage.

Not only are China’s individual athletes looking to secure a place on the podium, but its team events are anticipated to score well, too. The men’s and women’s synchronized diving teams – Lian Junjie & Yang Hao and Chen Yiwen & Chang Yani, respectively – and the shooting duo Huang Yuting & Sheng Lihao are forecast to take the gold.

France: Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 264

Proud host of this year’s Olympic games, France is predicted to perform well on home turf. So well, in fact, that many sportsbooks are predicting a third-place win for the highest number of gold medals and sixth place for the overall number of medals.

After scoring 2x gold medals in Tokyo 2020, Clarisse Agbégnénou is a serious contender for the judo Olympic gold. Also favored by the sportsbooks are Sara Balzer (fencing), Mélanie De Jesus Dos Santos (artistic gymnastics), Antoine Dupont (rugby sevens), Teddy Riner (judo), and Léon Marchand (swimming).

Sportsbooks are also betting on the French teams to do well, with the women’s handball team the clear favorite across betting platforms. Both the men’s and women’s handball teams won gold in Tokyo, so it’s hardly a surprise that France is currently the leading Olympic country in the sport.

Image Credit: Flashpict/Shutterstock

Australia: Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 164

Australia has competed in every modern summer Olympics since Athens in 1896 and brought home at least one medal every time, so it’s hardly surprising that they’re forecast to score well across the table. The Aussie team has athletes competing in almost every Olympic event, barring only handball, fencing, and volleyball. 

Swimming is Australia’s most recurrently successful sport. This year, its 45-strong team of Dolphins looks set to win again, featuring top athletes like Ariarne Titmus, Kaylee McKeown, Emma McKeon, and Elijah Winnington. Jessica Fox is also predicted to place in the canoe slalom event, while Grace Brown competes for the top spot in road cycling.

Great Britain: Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 284

Though smaller in size than top competitors like the US and Australia, Great Britain is a serious contender for the most gold medals by country at Paris 2024. GB has competed in every modern Olympics since its inception and – as of the 2020 games – is currently third in the all-time Summer Olympics medal table, both by the number of golds and the overall tally of medals won. Great Britain is also the only country to have won at least one gold every year.

Tom Daley (diving), Andy Murray (tennis), Helen Glover (rowing), Max Whitlock (gymnastics), and Adam Peaty (swimming) are part of GB’s ‘golden generation’: Olympic legends who have come out of (or are extremely close to) retirement for one final swipe at the gold medal.

Other top contenders include GB’s youngest-ever Olympian Sky Brown (skateboarding), first-ever female weightlifting medalist Emily Campbell, and Sports Personality of the Year favorite Keely Hodgkinson (800m).

Japan: Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 169

The ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic meant that Japan’s turn to host the 2020 Olympics, which were postponed until 2021, wasn’t quite the large-scale operation it had envisaged. Nonetheless, the nation celebrated its most successful Olympics so far and arrived in Paris ready to fight for a spot at the table once more (and doing so in front of a much larger crowd).

Akari Fujinami hasn’t lost a wrestling match since she was in junior high, while Misaki Emura is hoping to win Japan’s first gold medal in fencing after coming first in the International Fencing Federation World Rankings. Competing in BMX freestyle, Rim Nakamura is aiming to become Japan’s first podium winner in an Olympic cycling event, while Shigeyuki Nakarai, better known as Shigekix, hopes to become the first male breaking champion in the history of the festival. 

Other top competitors include Daiki Hashimoto (gymnastics), Hina Hayata (table tennis), Haruka Kitaguchi (athletics), Tatsuru Saito (judo), Keisei Tominaga (basketball), and siblings Hijumi and Uta Abe (judo).

Netherlands: Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 95

Paris 2024 sees the Netherlands’ largest number of competing athletes in the country’s Olympic history. With a grand total of 276 athletes – 47 of whom are competing in track and field events – the Netherlands is hoping to build on the 36 medals won in Tokyo, eight of which were won in a single day.

Boasting numerous European champions in events like rowing, cycling, hockey, and athletics, the Netherlands is predicted to win over a dozen gold medals in Paris. Track and field athletes Femke Bol and Sifan Hassan, alongside cyclists Mathieu van der Poel and Harrie Lavreysen and shot putters Jessica Schilder and Jorinde van Klinken, are among the Netherlands’ top contenders for a gold medal.

Canada: Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 71

Paris 2024 is only Canada’s 29th appearance in the Olympic games, but it has performed consistently and successfully enough to earn a spot in the list of the 10 top-performing countries. Canada brings 315 athletes to the Olympic games, hoping to take a place on the podium in 31 events.

Summer McIntosh, who made her Olympic swimming debut at the age of 14, is returning to the Olympic games following a year of world record-breaking swims. Canada’s Olympians with the most gold medals, Andre De Grasse and Penny Oleksiak, are hoping to build on the six and seven medals they won across their first two Olympics, respectively. 

Eleanor Harvey (fencing), Aaron Brown (track and field), Josh Liendo (swimming), Bianca Andreescu (tennis), Katie Vincent (sprint canoe), Brian Yang (badminton), Melissa Humana-Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson (beach volleyball), and Fay De Fazio Ebert (skateboarding) are also favored to score well.

Image Credit: Inspiring Team/Shutterstock

Germany: Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 201

Germany consistently ranks within the top 10 performing Olympic countries. In fact, it has remained within this list for the last 21 consecutive summer Olympics, though it has yet to clinch the very top spot.

Basketball player Dennis Schr?der is expected to lead the team to victory, having played in the NBA since 2013 (most recently with the New York Nets). Long jumper Malaika Mihambo, despite a recent COVID-19 infection, is returning to Paris to defend her Tokyo gold, while rising star and German champion Lukas M?rtens hopes to secure the gold in his Olympic debut.

Angelique Kerber and Alexander Zverev (tennis), Timo Boll (table tennis), and Isabell Werth (dressage) are all looking to add to their Olympic medal collection, and the men’s basketball, women’s football, and men’s handball teams are predicted to score well.

Republic of Korea Number of Olympic Gold Medals: 96

Paris 2024 will be the Republic of Korea’s 19th Summer Olympics appearance after winning six gold, four silver, and ten bronze medals in the rescheduled Tokyo Olympics. The Republic has long been the undisputed champion of Olympic archery and repeatedly scores well in combat sports events like taekwondo, judo, and wrestling.

The women’s archery team of Jeon Hun-young, Lim Si-hyeon, and Nam Su-hyeon is predicted to bring home the Republic of Korea’s 10th consecutive gold. On the other hand, individual shooting athletes Ban Hyo-jin, Oh Ye-jin, and Kim Ye-ji are expected to finish at the top of the leaderboard. Oh Sang-uk (fencing) and Kim Woo-min (swimming) are also forecast to perform well in their events.

Title Image Credit: Shutterstock

Olympics Games Betting: The Essential Betting Guide

• Whether betting on the Olympics is legal in depends on which country you are in. However, most counties have legalized sport betting which includes the Olympics.
• There are actually four Olympic games. The summer Olympics, the Winter Olympics, the Paralympics and the Special Olympics.
• The Paralympics and the Special Olympics are often confused with each other. The difference is that the Paralympics is primarily for athletes with physical disabilities, while the Special Olympics is for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
• This guide will cover the basics of Olympics betting and answer questions such as ‘can you bet on the special Olympics?’

Often considered the pinnacle of many athletic events, the Olympics sees athletes from more than 180 countries come together to compete across a variety of sporting events.

As the Olympics are only held every four years and switch host nations every time, each competition has its own personality. This provides exciting opportunities for viewers to enjoy lesser-seen sports and fan favorites.

You can make things even more exciting by Olympic sports betting. Olympic games betting is legal in many countries globally, although there are some critical restrictions you need to consider before you start betting.

Read our complete guide to learn more about how you can bet on the Olympics 2024, including whether wagering on events is legal and some tips for placing successful wagers.

History of Betting on the Olympics

The Olympics are one of the oldest sports events in history, dating back to Ancient Greece around 776 BC. There is evidence that even during the Ancient Olympic Games, betting on athletes to win events was common.

While the Ancient Olympic Games finished around 393 AD, the modern Olympic Games returned in 1896. Most countries globally didn’t accept sports betting legally until later in the 20th century, with the UK legalizing sports betting, including Olympics betting with the Betting and Gaming Act 1960.

Legalizing Sports Betting on the Olympics

Meanwhile, places like the US have regulated sports betting since 1949. However, legal sports betting was limited to Nevada for most of this history. Anyone who visited the Silver State could bet on the Olympic games.

The US Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) in 2018, allowing other US states to legalize sports betting within their borders. Dozens of US states now allow sports betting, and you can bet on the Olympics 2024 at online sportsbooks or through retail sportsbooks.

Some countries worldwide do not allow betting on the Olympics or any other sports for cultural and religious reasons. For example, sports betting is prohibited in Saudi Arabia under Sharia law.

Olympic Sports Betting: Choosing a Winner

Standard Olympic sports betting involves athletes or teams competing against each other in competitions or events that are usually won through scoring points of some kind (goals, touchdowns, etc.). Most sportsbooks allow you to predict the final event and key events that will happen during the event, such as how many home runs a player will hit in a baseball game.

In Olympic events, many events are determined by the judges’ scores, like boxing matches that don’t feature a knockout. Another example is synchronized diving, which involves several rounds of scoring to determine which nations get a medal.

Of course, backing the nations that have consistently won the most gold medals is always a good idea.

Most sportsbooks won’t offer markets on individual moments during events for the Olympics but will allow you to wager on medal winners. The main exceptions to these rules are soccer and basketball, which will feature many of the same markets you’d expect when placing different types of sports bet.

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Can You Bet Money on The Olympics?

You can bet on the Olympics in many countries globally, with sportsbooks operating in Canada, the UK, and the rest of Europe allowing a wide range of wagers on these events.

You must use a sportsbook licensed in your jurisdiction to browse and wager on Olympic betting markets. For example, if you play in the UK, you must use a site licensed by the UK Gambling Commission.

Legality of Olympics Betting in the US

You can also bet on the Olympics in the US, although the availability of this betting will vary from state to state. For example, some US states will completely prohibit Olympic betting. Meanwhile, some states will allow betting on events like soccer and basketball but restrict wagers on judged events like gymnastics, surfing, equestrian, and BMX.

Many Olympic sports are amateur sports, which may raise ethical issues with some players. However, if your licensed sportsbook offers markets on an Olympic sport, it is doing so safely and legally.

Some Olympic events like skateboarding and gymnastics feature young athletes under 18. For example, an 11-year-old competed at the 2024 Olympics in skateboarding. Most sportsbooks will prohibit wagering on events featuring younger athletes to protect them from the pressure created by sports betting.

Betting on Different Types of Olympics

Of course, there are two Olympic competitions for fans to enjoy: the Summer Olympics and the Winter Olympics. While these events both showcase the top athletes, they host different sports and betting opportunities. Below, we’ll cover a few of the differences between betting on the Summer Olympics and the Winter Olympics.

Can You Bet on The Summer Olympics?

Summer Olympics sports betting is so appealing to bettors because there is a broad mix of sports to enjoy, including fan favorites like basketball and soccer, alongside niche sports like martial arts, equestrian events, and gymnastics.

As athletes compete at the highest level, the fields for these events are often relatively even, meaning some generous odds are available.

As the Summer Olympics are often held in the gap between the seasons of many major sports, the competition gets plenty of competition from sportsbooks. You’ll find special offers like chances to earn bonus bets, odds boosts, and other promotions available before and during the tournament. 

Can you bet on the Winter Olympics

The first Winter Olympics was hosted in Chamonix, France, in 1924. The competition was held in the winter months of January and February in the same year as the Summer Olympics until 1994 when it moved to two years after every Olympics.

For example, the 1994 Winter Olympics was held between the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

While the Summer Olympics has a mixture of sports players might recognize from outside of Olympics betting, most Winter Olympics sports are niche. Therefore, there are many exciting new events for sportsbook customers to wager on, including curling, biathlon, and snowboarding.

Can you bet on the Special Olympics?

Betting on the Special Olympics made its first appearance in 2003, when BetOnline announced it would be offering a sportsbook for the event. So the answer to ‘can you bet on the special Olympics?’ is now a resounding yes!

Can you bet on the Paralympics?

As with the standard Olympics, whether you can bet on the Paralympics will depend on the legality of sportsbook betting where you live. But if its legal to bet only Olympics in your area, then it’s also legal to bet on the Paralympics.

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Betting Strategies for the Olympics

Like all sports betting, wagering on the Olympics is can come down to luck as much as skill. However, there are some Olympics betting strategies you can consider to increase your chances of winning.

One key factor is research. There are dozens of sports at the Olympics, many of which you can usually bet on, like basketball, cycling, tennis, and soccer, so many fans may be excited to back markets on niche sports.

However, betting on a sport you know nothing about may result in losing wagers. So, hold off on those canoeing slalom bets! That being said, niche sports are a best places to find PK bets.

The Home Field Advantage

While it may seem simple, backing the hosts is a strong strategy for Olympic betting. Past games have shown that hosts often perform better on home soil than nations would usually rank.

For example, Australia came fourth in the 2000 Olympic games in Sydney, a finish it has only matched once since. Meanwhile, South Korea hosted in 1988 and finished fourth, a position it has failed to match since.

The best example was Spain, which hosted the games in 1992 and finished the tournament in sixth. The nation has not ranked in the top ten in any games since then.

Betting on Different Olympic Sports

One of the things people most enjoy about Olympics sports betting is the wide range of sports taking the spotlight over a few weeks.

Whether you’re interested in soccer or taekwondo, there is something for everybody. Some popular sports for Olympic games betting include soccer, gymnastics, athletics, and basketball.

As the hosts, Paris was also allowed to add new sports, such as  surfing, sport climbing, skateboarding, and break dancing. Unfortunately, it seems America’s most hated sport, Ultimate Frisbee, seems to have been dropped (ironically) from the 2028 games in Los Angeles.

Team vs Individual Bets

With so many different events, bettors need to consider various factors. For example, if you’re betting on a sport like basketball or soccer, you’re betting on a team’s performance rather than a single athlete. Many betting sites will also let you wager on players to hit individual stats in games with these events, such as a soccer player scoring a goal.

Even with sports that feature individual athletes, like gymnastics or fencing, you can still wager on the whole performance of a nation. For example, you can bet on a particular athlete to score the highest total in the men’s pommel horse, but a nation to score the most points total.

Additionally, if you’re betting on a sport that might feature young athletes, such as skateboarding or gymnastics, you may not find betting lines available for these events to protect these athletes.

Will You be Able to Bet on The Olympics in 2024?

The Olympics brings together around 200 countries together to compete in a wide range of athletic events. For many sports, the Olympics is the highest level of competition.

You place wagers on the Olympics in multiple countries worldwide, although the events and bet types that may be available will vary. It’s tempting to try betting on all the sports you don’t see very often at sportsbooks, but we recommend doing your research to place the most intelligent bets you can. 

While betting on the Olympic Games is exciting, it’s important to always gamble responsibly. Many sportsbooks offer account tools like deposit, time, and spending limits to help control your gambling habits. If you need support, you’ll find on-site resources on how to play responsibly and links to third-party problem gambling support.

The Olympic Games hold a special place in many sports fans’ hearts, capable of creating exciting and heartfelt moments with memories lasting a lifetime. The medley of sports covered across the competition allows all sports fans to enjoy something. That enjoyment can be boosted even more by placing sports bets on the world’s biggest sports event.

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Are Online Blackjack Games Rigged? What You Need to Know

• No, online blackjack games are not rigged. If you are using a licensed online blackjack casino, then the games are heavily regulated and overseen by accredited auditing bodies.
• Most online blackjack card games use RNG (random number generators) to decided which cards are dealt. This also ensures that players can’t count cards.
• Licensed online casinos are regularly audited to ensure their system give the player a reasonable chance to win
• This guide will show how online blackjack isn’t rigged, explain why systems are used to ensure this, and give you some tip on which sites to avoid so you stay safe.
• Large online Casinos like Stake, High Five Casino,?and?Hello Millions have much more to lose by being caught cheating than they could win by rigging blackjack games.

Is Online Blackjack Rigged: Debunking Common Misconceptions

The vast majority of online blackjack games are legitimate, give you a fair chance of winning, and a heavily regulated. To give you complete peace of mind, we’ve busted some common misconceptions, broken down how online blackjack games are regulated and listed steps you can take to keep yourself safe while enjoying online blackjack.

The first and most common myth can debunk is the idea that all online blackjack games are some kind of scam. Unless you are a blackjack player at an unlicensed or rigged US casino, online blackjack is not fixed against the player.

How Are Online Casinos Kept Honest?

Our recommended regulated online casino games use RNGs (Random Number Generators) and are externally audited by independent testing agencies to guarantee that outcomes are completely fair and random.

So, why do you lose when playing blackjack online? Well, this is because blackjack is a game of chance. There is nothing you can do to influence the outcome or shift the odds and the cards in your favor, regardless of whether you’re playing in a casino or playing mobile blackjack on your phone.

You can use online blackjack strategies and betting systems to help your bankroll last longer, but there is no surefire way of predicting what cards will show up next.

4 More Blackjack Myths Busted

There are plenty of other harmfully myths about online blackjack, so let’s bust four more of them!

1. Online Casinos are all Scams: While the odds are against you, reputable real money casinos are not swindling you. Each game you play has been tested to ensure it provides random and fair outcomes.
2. Some Blackjack Games are Hot/Cold: Because every outcome of online blackjack is random, there is no guarantee what the next result will be. If a table has not paid for several rounds, it’s simply down to random chance and not the casino rigging the game not to pay.
3. Casinos Freeze Games During Win Streaks: Blackjack is a hard game to win, but it is possible to go on streaks and build up profits in a single session. It is a myth that when this happens, the online casino or casino app will freeze the game to stop you from winning more.
4. Live Dealer Games are More Secure: Live dealer games are no more secure or immune to rigging than online blackjack, but people perceive them as being harder to rig. Perhaps being able to see the action with a human dealer puts people at ease. The reality is virtual RNG blackjack is as completely random and secure as playing with a live dealer.

Is Online Blackjack Rigged: What Is The House Edge?

All reputable online and land-based local casinos give you a fair chance to win, but the system is set up so that the casino wins the majority of the time. You have probably heard the term “the house always wins,” and the house edge is what this refers to.

House edge is set up to favor casinos in each game. So, if blackjack has a house edge of 0.5%, that means for every $10 you bet, you could win back $9.50 and lose $0.50 on average. Those 50 cents are the profit the casino makes. The house edge isn’t a set in stone amount, but rather an average taken over millions of hands of blackjack.

You could bet $10, land a winning hand, and double your money to $20. If you walk away at that moment, the casino will be down $10. Equally, you could bet your $10 and lose all of it, meaning the casino/house makes $10 in clear profit from one single player.

Because most people do not walk away in profit, the “house always wins” eventually. If you do suffer a losing streak, I can be easy to thing online blackjack is rigged, but the answer is always just probability.

Is Online Blackjack Rigged: How Are Games Kept Fair?

We have talked a lot about how safe and fair online blackjack games are. Now lets take a look at what measures are in place to ensure that casinos and their games are held accountable and deliver fair gameplay!

RNGs

A Random Number Generator is software that randomizes the outcome of every game. Importantly, RNG online blackjack games use this technology, where the RNG generates numbers randomly to ensure they cannot be predicted.

This makes them more secure than standard land-based blackjack games, where it is possible to count cards, especially in single deck blackjack.

With an RNG, the gambler, casino, or software provider cannot influence the outcome, which is why they are widely used in games like online roulette and online poker as well as blackjack.

Auditing Bodies

Using an RNG on its own is not enough because the casino/software provider could theoretically rig the software to deliver non-random results. Of course, this is not the case at our recommended online casinos, but to ensure this does not happen and to enhance their reputability, leading software studios allow their games to be tested by independent labs.

Third-party auditors such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, and GLI test games to ensure the RNG is random and fair.

Casino Licenses

To operate legally in the US, online casinos must obtain a gambling license in every state in which they operate. These gambling authorities, such as the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement or the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, hold online gambling sites to strict player safety and fair gaming standards.

You should always avoid any casino that does not have a license, as this is likely a rogue site that may have unfair games or not pay winnings.

Image credit: RomanR/Shutterstock

How to Protect Yourself When Playing Online Blackjack

While most casino games, and 100% of the games we recommend, are totally safe, it’s always a good idea to take a few extra steps to keep yourself safe online. Here are some easy-to-implement safety tips you can use:

• Use Our Recommended Casinos: The first thing that can help you stay safe when playing blackjack online is to choose one of the leading blackjack online casinos we recommend. Our gambling experts know exactly what to look for and have found the safest, fairest, and most reputable casino brands regulated in the US.
• Never Compromise on a License: If the online casino you are looking at does not have a license with a US state regulatory authority, leave the casino at once and absolutely do not register or deposit money.
• Read Customer Feedback: Fellow casino players are a reliable source of information. Check on sites like Trustpilot, the Google Play Store, or the Apple App Store to see how other players rate an online casino.
• Check Their Software Providers and Audits: The casinos we recommend have blackjack games from reputable providers like NetEnt, Playtech, and Evolution. These studios are open about their RNG testing and game fairness. You can also check to see if your casino has been tested by an auditor such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, TST, or GLI.
• Use Secure Payments: If you use e-wallets or prepaid cards, you can avoid giving the casino your financial information, making deposits and withdrawals more secure.
• Play For Free: You can play free online blackjack on most online casinos. This allows you to test the game or practice before you bet your own money.
• Always Game Responsibly: Think about how much money you can afford to lose before you start betting. Do not use money that comes from your living expenses. Remember, while the games are not rigged, the house always wins. Chasing losses can lead to your bankroll running out quickly.

Online Blackjack Rigged: FAQ

It’s perfectly reasonable for a player to wonder is ‘online blackjack fixed’ if they’re on a losing streak, so to put your mind at rest, here are some of the most common questions about online blackjack being rigged, answered!

• Can online blackjack be beaten? Yes, absolutely. While the casino always has a house edge, RNG ensures that players always have a reasonable chance of winning.
• Is online blackjack predetermined? No. Whenever a card is dealt, the software used in online blackjack uses a balanced RNG system to determine a random card. It is not predetermined and is, in fact, more random than live blackjack.
• What are the odds of winning blackjack online? Blackjack odds are based on the hand you are dealt. However, there are some blackjack strategies and card counting methods you can use to
• Is virtual blackjack fixed? No. If you’re playing at a licensed, regulated online casino then RNGs and auditing by independent agencies ensure none of the casino games are fixed.

Shuffle Away Your Doubts on Online Blackjack

The myth that all online blackjack games are scams or rigged is just that, a myth. Modern online casino games are heavily regulated and audited to give you a reasonable chance of winning. You can get out there an enjoy online blackjack to your hearts content, without constantly thinking “is online blackjack rigged?”

If you looking for some expert advice on how to up your blackjack game with easy to understand tips, check out these articles:

• When To Hit In Blackjack (And When Not To)
• Blackjack Strategy Charts: Play Perfect Blackjack
• When To Double Down In Blackjack (And When Not To)
• Blackjack Strategy: When To Split And When To Stand Pat

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It treats rolls of 2, 3, 11, and 12 as point numbers (such as 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10). This was done to be able to play tables that were running cold (not paying out much). It is still possible to make Place and Buy wagers.

Crapless Craps Vs Craps

So, what exactly are the differences between Crapless Craps and craps? Well, in standard craps games, there are four dice rolls that can lead to a loss in the Come Out roll. You can make a 2, a 12, and two possible ways to make a 3. What Crapless Craps does is remove the losing numbers on the Come Out roll.

On paper, this means every Come Out roll is a winner, and you cannot lose. However, there are tradeoffs with adjusting the rules of standard craps. For example, in Crapless Craps, 11 is a Point number, alongside 2, 3, and 12. Remember, in standard craps, an 11 roll would be an outright winner on the Come Out roll.

Rules of Crapless Craps

You can learn how to play the crapless variant easily enough, as the game is not harder than standard craps. When the dice rolls the first time – the Come Out – any number but 7 becomes the Point. You will now need to repeat the Point to be able to win a Pass Line wager. In all other aspects, Crapless bets are the same as the standard game:

• Crapless Craps: All numbers aside from 7 are a Point. You get six ways to roll a 7 as winning Come Out rolls and no ways to lose.
• Standard craps: 8 ways to win with six ways to roll 7 and two ways to roll 11, and four ways to lose.

In terms of the table layout, the Crapless table extends from the Point boxes and now includes 2, 3, 11, and 12 as Point numbers. The Don’t Pass section has been taken out completely, but there is still a Pass Line. There are no “dark side” bets in Crapless Craps, so all lay bets are removed from the table.

How To Play Crapless Craps

1. Craps games have one player acting as the Shooter, which is the player who rolls the dice. This may not always be you in land-based games, but it usually will be at an online casino.
2. Make an initial “Come Out” bet. In Crapless Craps, you can only bet on the Pass Line.
3. The Shooter rolls the dice. If you have a Pass Line and the dice show a 7, you win. If the dice shows any other number, it becomes the Point.
4. If you set a Point, you can keep rolling until either you repeat the Point and win or roll a 7 and the game ends in you losing.

Crapless Craps Odds And Payouts

Crapless Craps payouts differ from normal craps because of the slight changes in gameplay. It is important to know the odds before you start playing.

• 2 and 12: 6 to 1
• 3 and 11: 3 to 1
• 4 and 10: 2 to 1
• 5 and 9: 3 to 2
• 6 and 8: 6 to 5

You can make a Place bet on 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 with the following payouts:

• 2 and 12: 11 to 2
• 3 and 11: 11 to 4
• 4 and 10: 9 to 5
• 5 and 9: 3 to 2
• 6 and 8: 7 to 6

Because you can only win on a 7 (and not also an 11) during the Come Out roll, there are downsides to Crapless Craps. Chief among them is that it can be harder to set the point and that you cannot use dark side betting. In craps, most players feel it is bad etiquette to bet against the Shooter, who is a fellow player. Betting against the Shooter is known as dark side betting, and online, it doesn’t matter as much because you play by yourself. In Crapless Craps, dark side betting is not available.

In terms of the house edge, the Pass Line bet on standard craps is 1.414%, while on Crapless Craps it is 5.382%. The reason for the significantly worse house edge is that Crapless Craps offers fewer ways to win on the Come Out by removing 11 as a winning roll.

Crapless Craps Tips

While no Crapless Craps strategy can guarantee wins, the following tips will give you a better understanding of the game:

• Check the betting limits: Different games have varying betting limits. Check to ensure the game you choose is within your budget. You may find Crapless Craps has higher buy-in bets, so you may need to wager more than when you play standard craps.
• Practice for free: Online casinos offer demo modes of their games. While you cannot win real money, playing for free allows you to become familiar with the game, practice, and learn betting systems before risking your own cash.
• Gamble responsibly: As we say with all casino games, always gamble responsibly and within your financial limits. Only you know what you can afford to lose, but set a budget that comes from your disposable income.
• Learn the rules: Use this guide and free demo play to understand how to play Crapless Craps and become clear on the rules. Only once you are confident that you know what you are doing should you start betting for real.

Conclusion

While traditional craps may offer a better house edge, Crapless Craps adds a unique twist to the classic casino game by removing the Don’t Pass and Don’t Come betting options. Plus, since you can’t lose on the Come Out roll, you are guaranteed at least two dice rolls in Crapless Craps.

Despite its many advantages, the game may not appeal to every casino player. Take a closer look at the main pros and cons below.

Lead image credit: Netfalls Remy Musser/Shutterstock

It’s no secret that before he was the 45th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump was heavily involved in the US casino scene. Snapping up multiple properties throughout the 1980s, Trump had his name in lights no less than three times on the Atlantic City boardwalk.

Though he managed to bankrupt each of his New Jersey properties, his legacy lives on as one of America’s gambling linchpins. As such, it’s hardly surprising that many of the casino kings he once rubbed shoulders with are opening up their wallets and funding his campaign.

Desperate to close the gap between Biden’s campaign cash flow and his own, Trump has been ingratiating himself with the Vegas elite. From the original legends of the Strip to their families, partners, and stakeholders, here are the casino moguls cashing in on Trump’s third Presidential bid.

Steve Wynn

Donald Trump and Steve Wynn engaged in a tumultuous legal battle over Atlantic City’s gambling landscape that lasted throughout the 1990s. But after years of lawsuits, employee poaching, and public slander, their relationship eventually transformed from rivalry to respect.

Mirroring the age-old ‘enemies-to-lovers’ trope, Donald Trump and Steve Wynn somehow transformed their mutual hatred into a politically charged friendship. After all, the pair share many similarities: both are casino moguls, share the republican ideology, have faced numerous sexual assault allegations – the list goes on.

The outcome of Steve Wynn’s allegations? A $10 million fine, loss of ownership of his casino empire, and exclusion from participating in any casino-related role other than a customer.

Back In The Game

However, it seems Wynn isn’t sitting around licking his wounds. Instead, the former finance chair of the Republican National Committee has rekindled his political associations.

In April 2024, Wynn pledged over $800,000 to a Trump 47 campaign fundraiser, which he helped organize and co-hosted. He also received a shoutout from Trump after an uncontested victory in New Hampshire in January. In June 2024, Wynn was finally victorious in his years-long foreign lobbying case against the Department of Justice.

While his historical feud with Trump played out on the New Jersey shore, Steve Wynn was one of the most influential figures on the Vegas Strip. During his 50-year career, Wynn became the majority shareholder of the Golden Nugget Casino (the youngest casino owner in Vegas), opened a string of legendary properties (including the Mirage, the Bellagio, and Treasure Island), launched his eponymous Wynn Resorts Hotel & Casino chain, started the online gambling site, Wynnbet and expanded into Macau.

Image credit – Wangkun Jia/Shutterstock

Dr. Miriam Adelson

Wynn isn’t the only mogul backing the Trump administration. Dr. Miriam Adelson, wife of the casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, has been a staunch supporter of Trump since the beginning. After flying under the political radar for a couple of years, Aldelson has returned to back her favorite wispy-haired Republican.

In 2016, the Adelsons donated over $25 million to Trump’s campaign and inauguration ceremony. Two years later, the pair pledged over $110 million to various Republican causes, earning Miriam the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2018. The Adelsons also spent around $90 million aiding Trump’s failed 2020 re-election efforts.

Far from Wynn’s disgraced expulsion from the Vegas strip, Miriam Adelson has found herself the proprietor of one of its biggest casinos. After her husband passed away in 2021, Adelson inherited the majority share of his casino empire, Las Vegas Sands, and became the fifth-richest woman in America. Ironically, the newly-appointed kingpin (or should that be queenpin?) of gambling is a doctor who specializes in the biology of addiction.

The Queenpin of Vegas

Since assuming her new role as majority shareholder, Dr. Adelson has set her sights on more than just casinos. In November 2023, Adelson shed $2 billion of company stock (around 10% of her share) to purchase majority ownership of the Dallas Mavericks.

Six months later, she blew the dust off her political checkbook and reprised her role as Trump’s most extravagant supporter. Though she refrained from investing during the early stages of the 2024 election, Dr. Adelson donated over $400,000 to the Trump 47 Joint Fundraising Committee in May.

Almost immediately after the June presidential debate between Trump and Biden—during which Trump aligned himself with her pro-Israel sentiments—Adelson pledged a mind-blowing $100 million to Trump’s campaign via the reconstituted Preserve America super PAC. According to Dave Carney, leader of said super PAC, the money will be spent on media campaigns to win over a handful of undetermined states.

John Paulson

Though not directly a casino owner himself, John Paulson enmeshed himself in the casino world with his various supersized stakes. Through his hedge fund, Paulson & Co., John Paulson bought stakes in companies such as MGM Resorts, where he became the second-largest shareholder of the MGM Mirage after a $410 million stock purchase in 2010.

He’s also held positions with Caesar’s (buying 12.3 million shares in 2012), Boyd Gaming (where he swapped $40 million for 4.6% ownership), and Bally’s (which he added to his portfolio in 2021 with a $54.11 million stake). Though he has since relinquished these stakes, it’s clear he’s always had a keen eye for casino investments.

Potential Cabinet Pick

Paulson has been publicly linked to Donald Trump since 2016 when he was a valued donor and financial adviser to the Trump campaign. Now, it seems he’s back in the political limelight and hoping to offer up more than just his wallet. In March 2024, Trump discussed the possibility of recruiting Paulson as his Treasury secretary if he wins the election.

Paulson is already going to great lengths to prove his devotion to Trump. In April 2024, the hedge fund manager opened up his Palm Beach mansion to host a fundraiser in Trump’s honor, aiming to rectify the financial disparity between Biden’s campaign fund and his own. The event, which had around 100 attendees and cost between $250,000 to $824,600 per ticket, reportedly raised over $50 million for the Trump campaign.  

Image credit – Ken Wolter/Shutterstock

Tilman Fertitta

Tilman Fertitta is the owner and CEO of Landry’s Inc., which operates over 600 casinos, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues across the US. Landry’s is a subsidiary of his entertainment conglomerate, Fertitta Entertainment Inc.

Perhaps the most famous of all Landry’s brands is the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino, which Fertitta acquired from the Poster Financial Group in 2005 and which was cemented as one of the Strip’s most iconic casinos in 1977 by former owner Steve Wynn. Since acquiring the initial two Golden Nugget casinos, Fertitta has opened half a dozen Nugget resorts across the US.

The NBA’s Houston Rockets are another prominent business venture for the Texan tycoon, which he acquired through Fertitta Entertainment Inc. in 2017 and doubled in valuation in the next seven years. However, they’ve caused him considerably more hassle in the last few years than his successful casino resorts.

Houston We Have A Problem

In 2020, star players James Harden and Russell Westbrook requested to be traded from the Rockets, largely due to Fertitta’s strong support of Trump and the Republican party. After Trump’s numerous attacks on the “low IQs of African-Americans” and on NBA star LeBron James specifically, it’s not hard to see why.

Despite dissatisfaction among the team about his political views (and possibly because both players have already left the Rockets), Tilman Fertitta is in no rush to diminish his support for the Trump 47 campaign. Instead, he’s pulling out all the stops to ensure ol’ Don gets the funding he needs.

In May 2024, Fertitta hosted a private fundraiser inside his five-star Post Oak Hotel in Uptown Houston. Tickets cost between $100,000 to $844,600 per couple, with a photo op thrown in for a mere $25,000. Fertitta’s co-hosts included oil tycoon George Bishop, Hilcorp Energy CEO Jeff Hildebrand, and Al A. Gonsoulin, chairman and chief executive of the energy aviation company PHI Inc.

Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta

Brothers Frank III and Lorenzo Fertitta are also big-time backers of the Trump campaign and long-standing Republican donors. Third cousins of Tilman Fertitta, Frank III and Lorenzo inherited their father’s successful Station Casinos chain in 1993, which consists of 17 properties throughout Nevada.

However, the brothers made the bulk of their billions through the MMA promotion company UFC, which they bought for $2 million in 2001 and sold for $5 billion in 2017.

The Fertitta brothers have long been embroiled in a legal battle with the Culinary Union, a 60,000-strong organization representing Vegas’ tourism industry workers and the largest union in Nevada. Though Culinary has successfully unionized most Vegas casinos, Station and Red Rock Resorts (Fertitta’s publicly traded arm) are proving a difficult stone to turn.

In September 2021, the brothers were subpoenaed for attempting to undercut labor organizing efforts, and in March 2022, they faced a mass action lawsuit for violating Nevada’s “Right to Return” Act.

America First Action

So, how are the Fertitta’s linked to Donald Trump? Since 2016, the pair have donated over $5 million towards Trump’s campaigns, including over $200,000 to his Inaugural Committee and $2 million to the controversial America First Action super PAC. In 2022, the brothers donated over $1.5 million to various Republican PACs.

Though it remains to be seen how much the Fertitta’s will pledge during the 2024 campaign, their involvement is pretty much guaranteed. The brothers met with Trump in January 2024, where they allegedly committed to supporting his latest Presidential endeavors.

Image credit – Tupungato/Shutterstock

Phil Ruffin

Last on our list but the first out of the gates, Phil Ruffin was the first casino mogul to donate to Trump’s 2024 campaign. Donating $1 million to the MAGA Inc. super PAC and more than $800,000 to the Trump 47 Committee, Ruffin was a real leader of the PAC (pun intended).

Co-owner of the Trump International Hotel and long-term sidekick of Trump himself, Ruffin made his money through casino acquisitions. He bought the New Frontier Hotel & Casino in 1998 for just shy of $200 million and sold it to Israeli developers a decade later for $1.2 billion.

Leader of the PAC

In 2009, he bought the Treasure Island Hotel & Casino for $775 million (one of the many Strip casinos founded by Steve Wynn) and acquired the Circus Circus Casino for $825 million in 2019. Despite the former churning out enough money to fund Ruffin’s retirement for the next few centuries ($400 million annually, if you’re interested), the 89-year-old casino magnate refuses to bow out of the gambling game.

Sure, the pair don’t always see eye to eye – for example, Donald believed you could kill the coronavirus with bleach, while Phil was adamant that sunlight and desert heat would do the trick. However, Ruffin’s latest donations prove he’s just as invested in Trump’s 2024 campaign as he was in the last two.

If you’re interested in learning more about the 45th president, his casino mogul supporters, and their many many ties to the casino world and Vegas, check out these articles:

Title image credit – Iv Olga/Shutterstock

• Donald Trump & His History of Casinos
• 2024 Election Betting Odds: Who’s The Next President?
• Political Betting In 2024 – 10 Bets You Can Place
• Phil Ruffin: Sin City’s Self-Made Casino Mogul

Parts Of A Slot Machine

While there are many different types of slot machines out there, the basics of each game are the same. All slots have reels and paylines, and the aim is to match symbols on the reels/lines into winning combinations. That’s it!

Reels

The most obvious feature of slots – and also the most important – are the reels. These are a set of three to five sections on the game screen. On them, you will see symbols, and each reel can spin vertically when you click to spin. Once the reels end their spin, you can see if you have enough matching symbols to win a payout.

For example, NetEnt’s Mega Fortune slot (pictured above), has five reels.

For modern online video slots, developers use a Random Number Generator (RNG), which is a software that randomizes each spin. There is no way to know or predict the outcome, meaning slots are games of chance. Top software providers allow independent labs to test their RNGs to ensure fairness.

In land-based casinos, slot machines traditionally had mechanical reels. However, through the rise of video slots and online games, reels have since become digital.

Paylines

Paylines are the feature that will determine if you win money. The reels are split into sections known as paylines, and you must have winning symbol combinations/patterns on an active line. Paylines are also known as “ways to win”.

Standard slot configurations include 10, 15, or 20 paylines. However, the number of paylines is very flexible, depending on what the software provider wants. Slots with the Megaways mechanic can offer hundreds of thousands of ways to win.

Paylines on a traditional slot setup are horizontal, but it is possible for lines to run in all directions on the reels. Some paylines are fixed, which means you must always bet across the maximum number of lines. If a slot game has variable paylines, you can choose how many lines you want to wager across.

Symbols

Symbols are the icons you see that fill reels. When the reels spin and stop, you will see a selection of symbols that usually tie into a slot machine’s theme (like fruits, gemstones, card suits, and more).

Each slot requires specific numbers of the same symbols to line up on a payline to win. For example, 3, 4, and 5 matching symbols for different levels of payouts.

There are low-value and high-value symbols, each paying a multiplier amount against your stake when you match them in a winning combination.

Slots also have additional symbols that modify gameplay but do not always payout. Notable examples are wild symbols which replace existing symbols, and scatter symbols to open bonus rounds.

When learning how to read slot machines, it is important to understand a specific game’s symbols and their individual payouts.

How To Read Slot Machines

Moving on from the basic features, understanding slot machines requires you to know the functionality of the game. Below are core mechanics that are fundamental to knowing how to read slot machines:

Paytables

Paytables are the feature that shows you how much you can win for each symbol combination, while they also detail all bonuses and features. Basically, a paytable serves as a guide to the overall experience of a slot game. Knowing how to read a slot machine paytable means you will also have confidence playing each online slot you choose.

All slot games have a visible paytable that you can find in the settings or by clicking the information icon on the game page. You will see several pages covering all aspects of the game.

The core of the paytable is a breakdown of each symbol on the reels and how they work. This will include low-value and high-value symbols, how many you need to trigger wins, and what multiplier payout you can receive.

The paytable will also detail other symbols, such as wilds and scatters, while explaining features such as respins, multipliers, bonus rounds, and free spins.

You can also read the minimum and maximum bet on the specific slot. We recommend you check the paytable of any new slot game you are playing.

Betting Options

Each slot has its own betting dynamics, so it is worth knowing what is required before you play.

At the base is the minimum and maximum betting level. These are essentially values that limit your betting range. For example, a game may allow you to bet from $0.10 up to $100 for each spin. It is worth noting that slots can go down to $0.01 per spin up to over $1,000.

If you are on a tight budget, choosing a slot with a low minimum bet is the best option. High rollers may wish to pick games with higher maximum wagers. However, you do not need to bet the minimum or maximum on each spin. You can tailor your bets by adjusting the coin value, which dictates how much you want to wager per active payline.

Remember, some slot machines demand that you bet across all paylines.

Interpreting Symbols And Features

Alongside the basic gameplay already explained above, slots come with an array of features and special symbols. Some games will be more basic with little additional features, and these games are known as classic slots. On all games, the basics are low-value and high-value symbols, as described below:

• Low-Value Symbols: These are the basic game symbols in the base game. For most slots, they are “Royals”, which means they are based on the playing cards 10, J, Q, K, and A. In the paytable, you can see how many of these symbols you need to trigger wins. For example, 3, 4, or 5 symbols. Each low-value symbol would have a specific payout amount. So, 3, 4, or 5 K symbols may payout 1x, 3x, or 5x respectively.
• High-Value Symbols: The high-value symbols on a slot work in the same way as low-value icons, except that the payout multipliers will be more lucrative. In many cases, the highest value standard symbols can payout 100x or more your stake if you get the maximum number on a payline. High-value symbols are usually theme-specific and represent something to do with the design of the slot machine.

Understanding Slot Machine Jargon

Let’s look at some terms you will frequently see when playing slots:

• Progressive Jackpot: A jackpot that grows every time a player makes a bet. Each time any player of a progressive jackpot slot makes a bet, a portion of the wager goes to the jackpot. This means payouts can reach millions of dollars before someone wins and the jackpot resets.
• Scatters: Also known as a bonus symbol, the scatter will usually open the free spins bonus on a slot game. You will need to match a specific number of scatters to unlock the bonus, such as 3, 4, or 5 symbols. On most online slot machines, the more scatter symbols you hit, the more free spins you receive.
• Wilds: A wild symbol can replace any other non-scatter symbol to help form a winning combination. If you need one more symbol to complete a winning payline, a wild symbol can help. Some wilds only serve this purpose, while others payout in their own right when you match them on the reels.
• Multipliers: A multiplier is essentially a modifier on a feature or symbol that literally multiplies the value of what you can win. For example, if you have a 10x multiplier, any win you receive will be worth 10 times the value of your stake.
• Bonus Round: A bonus round is an additional mini-game that can lead to an extra payout. On many slot games, the free spins round is the only bonus. However, some games may have additional bonuses such as random prize pickers, bonus wheels, or expanding wild Re-spins.
• Free Spins: For most slot games, the free spins bonus is the main feature of the game. As the name suggests, you get a set number of additional spins for free. These freebies almost always come with modifiers such as multipliers, expanding wilds, or the ability to re-trigger your free spins.
• RTP: Return to Play – or RTP – is a term that highlights how much a slot game will pay back on average. The standard for online slots is 96%, which means, on average, $100 spent, the game will return $96. This is not guaranteed math, as the average is taken from millions of spins.
• Volatility: Volatility highlights how often a game will payout on average, but not necessarily how much it pays. A high-volatility game will not pay out frequently, but wins can be bigger when it does. Low-volatility games have less risk as they payout more regularly, but the wins are generally smaller.
• Auto spin: Auto spin is a feature available on most slots. Many players spin the reels dozens or even hundreds of times. It can be tedious doing that on every individual spin. Auto spin allows you to automatically set up a set number of automatic spins, such as 100, 500, or 1,000.

Here at Casino.org, we’ve been following the Tim Naki saga closely, and have compiled the ultimate account of all of his wins, losses, and pushes over the last few months. Carry on reading for the most in-depth and up-to-date history of Tim Naki’s legendary blackjack betting series.

Who Is Tim Naki?

Tim Naki is part of the Degeneration Nation, which, according to the official Instagram page, is “a collective of the best gambling streamers on Twitch”. He has been streaming his online slot gameplay for well over a year, but it was his blackjack series that really caught people’s attention.

Inspired by Chewy Thompson, an American man who promised to walk an inch for every follower he had on Instagram, Tim Myers decided to apply the same idea to his gambling. Beginning in February 2024, Myers began betting 10c per Instagram follower.

On day 1, Myers wagered $1,500 on one hand. On day 90, he wagered $195,000.

Today, he has over 3 million fans following his daily betting antics, which many dub their “daily dose of dopamine”.

From owning a humble farrier business in Taranaki to spending six figures on a single hand in Canada, Tim Naki’s life has undoubtedly been forever changed because of this insane blackjack adventure.

Why Is Everyone Talking About Him?

Tim Naki’s blackjack series is the very first of its kind. When he started, there’s no way he could have predicted quite how great his bets would become. However, he made his promise, and he stuck to it. It was both the quantity of the bets themselves and his own sparkling personality that attracted millions of followers.

Whether you’re celebrating his wins or commiserating his losses, watching a Tim Naki stream feels like you’re punting with a pal. It’s no wonder this card game connoisseur has amassed more than 3 million followers during his blackjack journey.

From his hilarious jabs at the dealers to his genuine enthusiasm for every sized win, Tim Naki has established himself as one of the most down-to-earth, relatable, and fun streamers to watch.

However, there are a few vocal followers who believe his enormous wagers aren’t entirely self-funded.

Since Degeneration Nation is sponsored by SpinBit, the online casino platform that Tim Naki uses to play blackjack, some fans believe it is SpinBit who is depositing the cash into his account. If this is the case, it would be extremely similar to the frenzy caused by Drake when he started gambling on (and was subsequently sponsored by) Stake.com.

Unlike his slot streams, Tim Naki’s blackjack games aren’t live-streamed. Instead, they are filmed, edited and posted the next day, which is why a thread of Reddit users believe he replays some games using SpinBit’s money until he hits a huge win.?

Whether or not this is true, Tim Naki himself popped up to shut things down. In response to a Reddit thread titled ‘Tim Naki’s run has to be too good to be true’, the Kiwi gambler wrote: “I think you’re all really overcomplicating this. I have played 64 hands, won 39, lost 22, and pushed 3. I have a 61% win rate. There is nothing more to it than dumb luck.”

Tim Naki’s Best Moments

Beyond his incredible winning streak, his dealer observations are what sets Naki apart from other streamers (and what keeps people watching his whole reels and not just checking the comments for the day’s updates).

Flexing his natural Kiwi humor, Naki makes entertaining comments – which he calls ‘soft insults’ – about the croupiers to fill in time while they are shuffling and dealing cards. Some of the most popular ‘soft insults’ include:

• “This guy looks like he definitely drinks banana milk.”
• “Moses has done his best work parting the sea on top of this woman’s head.”
• “He gives a strong impression that he hangs out around laundromats pinching women’s undergarments.”
• “He definitely eats his pizza with a knife and fork.”
• “His eyes are quite close together…I was once told never to trust a guy whose eyes are that close together.”

Summary Of Tim Naki’s Wins And Losses

• Total wins: $4,633,293 NZD ($2,833,629 USD)
• Total losses: $1,698,181 NZD ($1,038,573 USD)

Before turning his hand to blackjack, Tim Myers was (and still is) a keen horse bettor. In a recent interview with Punters, Myers described his first devastating loss and first major win, both of which occurred on horses.

During his training as a farrier (a horseshoeing specialist), Myers and his brother pooled a month of their apprentices’ wages on a horse in the 2015 Melbourne Cup. When the horse broke down, it was a “crippling blow for all concerned”, and the pair lived off “Mi Goreng noodles for the coming weeks”.

On the other end of the scale, his biggest payoff occurred during the 2023 Melbourne Cup when he discovered an inflated promo price on one particular horse. Thanks to a couple of loopholes and some no-cap betting, Myers and his friends managed to clean up and somehow “got one over on the bookies”.

Naki’s Famous Blackjack Series

Early in 2024, Myers hit his biggest-ever slot win and landed the capital to begin his blackjack series. The win in question – $262,280 NZD on Pragmatic Play’s Madame Destiny Megaways slot – occurred on January 17th, 2024, giving him the financial freedom to place his first $1,500 blackjack hand two weeks later on February 2nd.

Throughout the three-month series, Tim Myers hit some historical and life-changing milestones. The Kiwi bettor won 10 out of 14 hands in his first two weeks, reached 150,000 followers in just over three weeks, and secured over $100,000 profit in 26 days.

Over the next 10 days, he accrued another $100,000 in profit, hitting the 200k mark by day 36. Myers landed his biggest win yet – $108,000 – on day 42, though he also suffered his biggest loss less than 24 hours later.

After losing $30,000 in one hand, Myers dropped the stakes from 10c per follower to 2c, though this switch-up lasted just six days before returning to the original format on day 50. The result? A $128,000 win.

Days 57-59 brought three consecutive pushes, the first (and only) of the series. Myers scored 9 wins and 5 losses throughout the next fortnight before venturing to Red Rock Casino to place (and ultimately lose) a couple of five-figure bets on days 74 and 75.

The biggest win of the entire series came on day 80 when Myers left the table with $270,000 after landing blackjack on a $108,000 hand. Finally, after 83 days of playing, he reached the million mark on his second attempt. But while it took him almost 12 weeks to hit this seven-figure status, it took just seven days to deplete his profits back to half a million.

After five eye-watering losses (none costing less than $119,000 per hand), TimNaki finally decided to cut his losses and conclude his three-month blackjack series. Ending with half a million in profit and over 1.2 million more followers, it’s safe to say that despite his many, many losses, the project was a roaring success.

A Closer Look At Tim Naki’s Wins And Loses

So, how many ups and downs did Myers face during his 90-day blackjack marathon? Check out the exact numbers below (figures are in NZD unless otherwise stated).

Days 1-30:

• Day 1: Won $3,000 with a $1,500 bet
• Day 2: Won $3,750 with a $1,500 bet using the previous day’s profits
• Day 3: Won $3,060 with a $1,530 bet, ending $5,200 in profit
• Day 4: Won $3,400 with a $1,700 bet
• Day 5: Rounded his $1,950 up to $2,000 and lost, ending his four-day win streak
• Day 6: Lost a $2,360 hand
• Day 7: Lost a $3,100 bet, landing him in the negative for the first time
• Day 8: Won $7,100 with a $3,550 hand, breaking the losing streak
• Day 9: Won $7,800 with a $3,900 bet
• Day 10: Won $8,200 with a $4,100 bet, used the profit to place a $4,100 Super Bowl multi bet
• Day 11: Doubled down on $4,400 bet and won $17,600
• Day 12: Won $9,860 with a $4,930 bet, resulting in a five-day win streak and $38,000 profit
• Day 13: Won $10,640 with a $5,320 bet, credits Taylor Swift and her lucky 13 for the win
• Day 14: Jumped from 15,000 to 59,700 followers in two weeks, resulting in a $5,970 bet (on which he suffered a huge double-down loss)
• Day 15: Won $12,400 after placing a $6,200 and bringing back his lucky Black Flaps cap
• Day 16: Won $14,400 after a $7,020 bet in Mexico
• Day 17: Won $25,000 on a $10,000 hand, a reduced number which was the result of an Instagram user sending thousands of bot followers to his account
• Day 18: Succumbed to pressure from followers to bet his full follower amount and lost a $15,300 hand
• Day 19: After confirmation from Instagram that his 157,000 follower count was full of bots, he played an $11,000 hand and lost
• Day 20: Lost an $11,700 hand
• Day 21: Won $24,200 with a $12,100 bet
• Day 22: Won a very swift $31,250 after landing blackjack with a $12,500 hand
• Day 23: Won $28,400 with a $12,900 bet after pressure from fans to use side bets, resulting in the best side bet win of the entire series
• Day 24: Won $24,000 with a $13,500 bet (side bets don’t pull through this time)
• Day 25: Won $35,000 with a $14,600 bet
• Day 26: Won $30,000 with a $15,000 bet after hitting 150k followers, reaching six-figure returns for the first time and securing over $113,000 profit in 26 days
• Day 27: Won $37,800 with a $15,600 bet, resulting in a $22,500 profit for the day
• Day 28: Lost a $17,000 bet
• Day 29: First day in Vegas, won $25,000 USD with a $10,000 USD hand
• Day 30: Second day in Vegas, won $25,000 USD with a $10,000 USD hand

Days 31-60:

• Day 31: Third day in Vegas, won the same again and continued the three-day streak
• Day 32: Final day in Vegas, and the house finally won
• Day 33: Won $40,000 with a $21,000 bet ($500 on each side bet)
• Day 34: Lost a $21,500 bet
• Day 35: Won $45,500 with a $22,500 bet using side bets
• Day 36: Won $91,600 after doubling down on a $23,200 bet, hitting over $200,000 profit
• Day 37: Lost a $24,000 bet but scraped back $3,500 on a side bet
• Day 38: Lost a $24,500 bet
• Day 39: Lost a $25,200 bet but gave away $2,500 to fans after breaching 250,000 followers
• Day 40: Lost a $26,200 bet
• Day 41: Lost a $27,000 bet
• Day 42: Won $108,000 after doubling down on a $28,000 bet, ending a five-day losing streak (the longest of the series)
• Day 43: Returns on March 20th after a six-day hiatus and loses a $30,000 hand
• Day 44: Lowers stakes from 10c per follower to 2c after input from fans, loses $6,140 bet
• Day 45: Lost a $6,200 bet
• Day 46: Won $12,480 with a $6,240 bet
• Day 47: Won $12,520 with a $6,260 bet
• Day 48: Upped the stakes at 5c per follower, won $30,000 with a $15,750 bet
• Day 49: Back to betting 2c per follower, loses a $6,360 bet
• Day 50: Returned to 10c per follower and won $128,000 from a $32,000 hand
• Day 51: Won $66,000 with a $33,000 bet, finally returning to over $200,000 in profit
• Day 52: Won $64,000 with a $34,000 bet
• Day 53: Won $70,000 with a $35,000 bet
• Day 54: Won $79,000 with a $35,500 bet, including a $10,000 win on side bets
• Day 55: Lost a $37,600 bet
• Day 56: Wins $80,000 with a $40,000 bet
• Day 57: $42,600 bet returned after the first push of the series
• Day 58: $45,000 bet returned after “back-to-back Alabama Specials”
• Day 59: $46,000 of $48,000 bet returned after “trifecta of pushes”
• Day 60: Won $100,000 with a $51,400 bet

Days 61-90:

• Day 61: Won $135,000 with a $56,000 bet
• Day 62: Lost a $60,200 bet
• Day 63: Won $120,000 with a $64,000 bet
• Day 64: Lost a $68,000 bet
• Day 65: Won $140,000 with a $70,000 bet
• Day 66: Won $140,000 with a $72,500 bet, hits half a million
• Day 67: Won $156,000 with a $78,000 bet
• Day 68: Lost an $81,000 bet
• Day 69: Won $160,000 with an $83,000 bet
• Day 70: Won $164,000 with an $86,000 bet
• Day 71: Lost a $91,000 bet
• Day 72: Won $180,000 with a $94,000 bet
• Day 73: Lost a $96,500 bet after revealing a $666,000 total profit
• Day 74: Lost $50,000 after switching from online to physical poker at Red Rock Casino, Vegas
• Day 75: Won $160,000 with a $50,000 online bet but lost $30,000 at Red Rock Casino
• Day 76: Won $206,000 with a $103,000 bet
• Day 77: Lost a $104,000 bet
• Day 78: Won $224,200 with a $104,400 bet, including $22,000 on side bets wins
• Day 79: Won $250,000 with a $106,000 bet
• Day 80: Won $270,000 with a $108,000 bet, two back-to-back blackjack days
• Day 81: Lost a $111,000 bet
• Day 82: Won $226,000 with a $113,000 bet
• Day 83: Won $230,000 with a $115,000 bet, breaching the million mark on May 3rd
• Day 84: Lost a $119,000 bet
• Day 85: Lost a $120,000 bet
• Day 86: Won $242,000 with a $121,000 bet
• Day 87: Won $240,000 with a $122,600 bet, this time including side bets (despite claiming “side bets are for mugs”)
• Day 88: Lost a $124,000 bet
• Day 89: Lost a $129,000 bet
• Day 90: Lost a $195,000 bet, spending what was left in his account and ending the three-month blackjack series

What Is Tim Naki’s Net Worth?

Tim Naki started streaming long before his blackjack series began. The Taranaki native uploaded his first slot stream via Instagram in January 2023 and joined YouTube in September 2022. He has also been wagering on horses since 2015, so he has almost a decade of horse race betting profits (and losses) behind him.

As such, it’s impossible to tell exactly what his net worth is. All we know is how much he has made from his blackjack winnings (a hefty sum) and how much he takes home from his regular slot streaming.

Of course, having skyrocketed into the mainstream and immortalized himself in the gambling hall of fame, it’s likely that TimNaki will have sponsorship offers coming up the wazoo. As such, his net worth will only increase even further over the next few months.

Tim Naki’s iconic series wrapped up after 90 days, leaving him the opportunity to start something completely new and exciting. And what did he do? Restarted his blackjack series, this time at 1c per follower (to be fair, he has a lot more followers now than when he originally began. And why fix what’s not broken?) We certainly can’t wait to see what he gets up to in the future.

Lead Image Credit: @tim.naki

With the side bet, you are predicting that your first two cards and the dealer’s up-card will form either a straight (cards in numerical order), a flush (cards of the same suit), or a three-of-a-kind (all cards have the same value) when combined.

In this article we’ll break down the basics of the rummy side bet, including payouts and whether it’s a bet worth making.

What Is A Rummy In Blackjack?

Rummy in blackjack is a side bet you can make before the game starts. To win the side bet, your first two cards combined with the dealer’s up-card must form a valid Rummy hand. A valid Rummy hand can be any of the following:

• Flush: three cards all of the same suit
• Straight: three cards of consecutive value
• Three-of-a-kind: Three cards of the same value

In the image below, only the player on the far left would win a rummy side bet. This is because their two cards are both diamonds, as is the dealer’s up-card. This create a Flush. The middle player came close to a Straight and a Three-of-a-kind, but not close enough!

Importantly, the Rummy side bet does not serve to help you get closer to 21. It is independent of the results of the regular blackjack game; only the value of your own cards can be counted towards your blackjack hand. In other words, you play the hand as normal by competing with the dealer to get as close to 21 as possible without going over.

Instead, this side bet helps adds additional payout potential, should you win. As with other side bets, you will need to add a separate wager on top of the standard game stake.

This side bet varies in availability and payouts among casinos, online platforms, and different blackjack variations. Always remember to check the rules of the specific game you’re playing before placing this, or any, side bet.

Payouts For Rummy In Blackjack

Rummy blackjack payouts can differ depending on the version of the game you play. However, below are the common payouts for this side bet:

• Flush 4:1
• Straight 4:1
• Three-of-a-kind 9:1

The house edge on the Rummy bet is usually 4% or higher, but this can vary significantly based on the payout structure, as well as the number of decks used etc. Regardless, it’s still a high house edge compared to the base game’s house edge (between 0.5% and 2%).

The Rummy Side Bet vs. 21+3 

21+3 is an extremely popular side bet that is essentially the same as Rummy. It, too, allows you to place an extra wager that “melds” your hand with the dealer’s up-card to make poker-style hands. However, there is one key difference.

For the 21+3 side bet, the player wins if their two cards plus the dealer’s up-card form either:

1. A flush: Three cards of the same suit.
2. A straight: Three cards in numerical sequence.
3. A three of a kind: Three cards with the same value.
4. A straight flush: Three cards in numerical sequence of the same suit.
5. Suited trips: Three cards with the same value and suit.

On the other hand, the Rummy side bet only pays out for the following combinations:

1. A flush
2. A straight (in the Rummy side bet an Ace is typically considered high, not low)
3. A three of a kind

So, the 21+3 side bet includes the straight flush combination, while the Rummy side bet does not.

Additionally the payouts are usually smaller in the Rummy side bet.

Is The Rummy Side Bet Worth It?

Overall, the Rummy side bet is not worth it.

The side bet is made before the game starts. This means you will not see your cards, or the dealer’s card, before you make the bet. In other words, you are not making the bet with any knowledge. It’s all about the luck of the draw.

But adding an extra bet can help to cover your bases as you can potentially win the side bet even if your blackjack hand loses, right?

Well, in theory, yes. However, the downside of side bets is that the odds do not match the investment. Each side bet comes with a significant house edge. For the Rummy side bet, the house edge is typically 4% or higher, depending on how many decks of cards are in play. This is significantly higher than blackjack’s standard house edge of between 0.5% and 2%

Because of the high house edge and random results of side bets, most serious blackjack players tend to avoid them.

If you do want to place a Rummy bet, keep these tips in mind:

• View the side bet as extra entertainment, not a way to win blackjack
• Do not wager big amounts of money on the Rummy side bet
• Avoid making side bets a part of your regular blackjack betting strategy

What Is The Blackjack Rummy Game?

Now, let’s flip the switch. You may have also seen the word Rummy used for a specific type of blackjack variant.

The “Rummy Blackjack” variant was developed in countries that do not allow blackjack games under local regulations, such as Costa Rica. It’s very similar to blackjack, with a few core differences such as the value of cards, as outlined below:

• The blackjack hand (10+Ace) does not have an extra payout
• Aces are only worth 11 (not 1 or 11, as in blackjack)
• You can choose to double down any hand, even when you have split
• Rummy allows unlimited splitting and re-splitting of pairs, including aces
• You can surrender early vs. both 10 and Ace
• Dealers must stand on soft 17
• A Rummy bonus of making a three-card poker hand from your first three cards

Of course, there is also another totally separate and different card game known as Rummy. This game involves players trying to create groups of cards in three or four-of-a-kind sequences. This game is popular in the United States and the UK, but is not found at online casinos.

What Is Rummy In Blackjack: A Recap

So, Rummy, when talking about blackjack, can refer to a side bet where you look to create a “Rummy hand” with your first two cards and the dealer’s up card. A Rummy hand is a flush, a straight, or a three-of-a-kind.

It can also mean a blackjack variant, popular in Costa Rica, which is very similar to blackjack, but has some key rule differences, such as the value of an Ace and when you can double down.

And finally, it can refer to a totally separate card game where players try to create sets and sequences of cards.

We hope that clears things up!

Lead image credit: juliannedev/Shutterstock

Who Is The Shortest NBA Player Right Now?

The shortest current NBA player is Jacob Gilyard. The Brooklyn Nets guard is 5’8” tall.

Considering that you have some of the tallest players of all time in the league right now, like 7’4” Victor Wembanyama, it’s impressive that Gilyard has been able to carve out a career for himself despite being just 5’8” tall.

Gilyard went undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft after playing four years of college basketball for the University of Richmond Spiders. He signed for the Memphis Grizzlies in September 2022, but was quickly moved to their G-League team, the Memphis Hustle.

The Grizzlies re-signed him to a two-way contract in April 2023. He became a regular player for the Griz, leading them in three-point shooting percentage after 20 games. That wasn’t enough to convince Memphis to keep him around, though. The Grizzlies waived Gilyard in February 2024.

The Brooklyn Nets signed Gilyard to a two-way contract in March 2024. In his short time with the Nets so far, he has made four appearances and averaged 11 minutes per game. However, he didn’t score a single point in those minutes.

Gilyard did dish out 1.5 assists per game, though, so it wasn’t all bad for the shortest player in the NBA.

Who Are The Shortest Current NBA Players?

There are just two players in the NBA right now who are shorter than six feet tall. As mentioned, Jacob Gilyard is the shortest current NBA player standing at 5’8″, followed by Isaiah Thomas who is 5’9″.

After Thomas and Gilyard, there is a 8-way tie for the next shortest active players. See the full list of the top 10 shortest NBA players below:

1. Jacob Gilyard: 5’8“ (Brooklyn Nets)
2. Isaiah Thomas: 5’9“ (Phoenix Suns)
3. Jose Alvarado: 6’0” (New Orleans Pelicans)
4. Mike Conley: 6’0” (Minnesota Timberwolves)
5. Aaron Holiday: 6’0” (Houston Rockets)
6. Kyle Lowry: 6’0” (Philadelphia 76ers)
7. Jordan McLaughlin: 6’0” (Minnesota Timberwolves)
8. Davion Mitchell: 6’0” (Sacramento Kings)
9. Chris Paul: 6’0” (Golden State Warriors)
10. Fred VanVleet: 6’0” (Houston Rockets)

Who Was The Shortest NBA Player Ever?

Muggsy Bogues holds the title of being the shortest NBA player of all time.

The 5’3” point guard played nearly 900 games in his 14-year NBA career. Unlike Gilyard, the current shortest NBA player, Bogues was a highly-rated college prospect. He tore up the NCAA with Wake Forest and was drafted 12th overall by the Washington Bullets in the 1987 NBA Draft.

Bogues was so good in college that Wake Forest retired his No. 14 jersey. He wasn’t as impressive in his first NBA season, though.

Bogues started his time with the Bullets strong, alongside 7’7” teammate Manute Bol, but tailed off as the season went on. Washington left Bogues unprotected in the 1988 NBA expansion draft. He was then drafted by the Charlotte Hornets.

After joining the Hornets, Bogues became a genuine star. During his nine seasons with Charlotte, he was one of the league’s best assistmen, averaging more than seven assists a game in all but one season.

Bogues was also surprisingly solid defensively despite his height. He was consistently one of the league’s leaders in steals and would occasionally even block a shot. Bogues blocked 39 shots in his career, including a legendary swat on 7-foot-tall Patrick Ewing in 1993.

Top 10 Shortest Players In NBA History

Bogues tops the list of shortest players in NBA history, and is probably the most famous short NBA player, but he’s far from the only shorter man to have had a solid career in the NBA.

Here are the 10 other shortest NBA players in history:

1. Muggsy Bogues: 5’3” (1987-2001)
2. Earl Boykins: 5’5” (1999-2012)
3. Spud Webb: 5’6” (1985-1998)
4. Mel Hirsch: 5’6” (1946-1947)
5. Greg Grant: 5’7” (1989-1996)
6. Kieth Jennings: 5’7” (1992-1995)
7. Red Klotz: 5’7” (1947-1948)
8. Wat Misaka: 5’7” (1947-1948)
9. Markquis Nowell: 5’7” (2023-2024)
10. Monte Towe: 5’7” (1976-1977)

Insights About The Shortest NBA Players

We’re not ones to make blanket statements, but after looking at the list of the shortest NBA players in history, we’ve noticed some trends. Here are some of the things we’ve spotted related to the odds of making it in the NBA.

1. Short players average less points per game

Of the 25 shortest players in NBA history, just three have averaged more than 10 points per game in their NBA careers.

Calvin Murphy and Isaiah Thomas are the only players 5’9” or shorter to average 20+ points per game in a season. Murphy did it five times. Thomas has averaged more than 20 a night three times, including the 2016-17 season, where he scored 28.9 points per game.

The reason why short players in the NBA struggle to score is pretty obvious. It’s harder for them to shoot over players. This is even more clear when you look at their shooting percentages.

Bogues, Boykins, Thomas, Murphy, and Spud Webb, the five most famous short NBA players, played in the NBA for a combined 65 seasons. Between them, there are just two seasons where they shot more than 50% from the field.

2. But short men can dunk

When you think of the greatest dunkers in NBA history, not many short players come to mind. Maybe they should, though. Despite their size, plenty of the shortest NBA players in history have been surprisingly good dunkers.

Spud Webb stunned the competition at the 1986 Dunk Contest, beating out seven other players who were all 6’5” or taller, including the legendary Dominique Wilkins. 5’9” Nate Robinson is the only player in NBA history to win three dunk contests.

Allen Iverson, Isaiah Thomas, Ty Lawson, Will Bynum, Chris Paul, and JJ Barea have all been known to throw it down occasionally. Even Muggsy Bogues claimed he could dunk.

FAQs About Short NBA Players

What is considered short in the NBA?

In today’s NBA, anyone under 6’2” tall is considered short. For comparison, the average height for US males is 5’9”. If an average man played in the NBA today, he would be just one inch taller than the shortest current NBA player (and four inches shorter than the average WNBA player).

Who is the best NBA player under 6 feet?

Former Houston Rockets legend Calvin Murphy is the best NBA player under 6 feet tall in history. The Hall of Famer scored over 17,000 points while being just 5’9”. The current NBA players under 6 feet tall are not the greatest players of all time. Neither Jacob Gilyard nor Isaiah Thomas played more than 6 games in 2024.

Do NBA players get shorter?

Not really. The average NBA player height was 6’4” in the 1952-53 season, and is now 6’6.5″, so there has been an increase in height. That said, the NBAs’ tallest decade was actually in the 80s (average height of 6’7.2″) and has gone up and down since.

But with players like 7′4″ Victor Wembanyama and 7′1″ Chet Holmgren leading the next generation, it’s unlikely that the average is going to continue to go down.

How many 5’11” players are in the NBA?

There are currently no players in the NBA who are 5’11” tall. However, there are seven players listed at 6 feet tall. It’s possible that some of these players are rounding up their height to avoid being labeled as ‘small’ by scouts, general managers, and coaches. Chris Paul famously appears to be much shorter than his 6’0” listed height.

How many 6 foot players are in the NBA?

There are eight 6 foot players in the NBA: Jose Alvarado, Mike Conley, Aaron Holiday, Kyle Lowry, Jordan McLaughlin, Davion Mitchell, Chris Paul, and Fred VanVleet.

Can Muggsy dunk?

If you ask Muggsy Bogues whether he could dunk, the answer is 100% yes. The shortest player in NBA history has repeatedly said he can dunk and that he did it in high school and college. However, there’s no footage of Bogues ever dunking. He never dunked in the NBA.

Here at Casino.org, we wanted to get a full picture of Drake’s extraordinary gambling habits, so we’ve analyzed his biggest sports and casino bets, as well as his relationship with Stake.com (see our full?Stake review?here).

Summary Of Drake’s Gambling Habits

• Drake joined the crypto casino Stake.com in December 2021. In just two months, he wagered cryptocurrency worth over $1 billion on sports and casino bets.
• Due to Drake’s bad track record with sports bets, many believe in the “Drake Curse”, where any athlete endorsed or wagered on by Drake suffers a defeat.
• Drake has wagered millions on sports bets, suffering many defeats in soccer and UFC (for example, losing $2 million on one UFC bet in 2022), but has been luckier with the NBA and NFL, bagging $2 million betting that The Kansas City Chiefs would win Super Bowl LVII.
• Drake also gambles on casino games, especially roulette. In 2022, he took home over $12 million on a roulette spin.
• Drake has hosted five live streamed events called “Drake vs Stake”, where he hands out Bitcoin packages worth up to $75,000. On one day, he won nearly $25 million himself, while on another, he started with $8.5 million and ended with less than $2,000.
• Some believe that the money Drake gambles on Stake.com is deposited by Stake itself.

A Brief History Of Drake’s Biggest Bets

• Total Wins: CA$106.3 million ($79.1 million)
• Total Losses: CA$46.1 million ($34.2 million)

From January 2022 to January 2024, our research discovered 24 notable wins and 21 notable losses.

This includes wagers on American leagues like the NFL and NBA and on international sports like the UFC and Formula 1.

It also includes his wagers on Stake.com, where it’s clear he has a penchant for roulette.

Some of his biggest successes occurred during live-streamed events as part of his partnership with Stake.

In fact, a single spin on a live roulette table saw him win over $17 million in May 2022.

The same month, he lost over $660,000 on Formula 1 and UFC bets.

Excluding an eight-figure casino failure (when he lost just under $25 million with French Montana), all of Drake’s biggest losses since January 2022 have been from his various sports wagers.

Despite his failures, the Toronto native totaled over $79.1 million in wins since joining Stake.com.

Take away the $34.2 million in losses, and Drake’s bets have seen him earn more than $44.9 million in profit.

Let’s take a look at Drake’s biggest wagers on Stake…

Drake’s Bets On Stake

Drake joined the crypto casino under the username “DeepPockets6” in December 2021.

In just two months, he wagered cryptocurrency worth over $1 billion on various sports and casino bets.

The Toronto talent has never been shy about posting his gambling activity. In February 2022, he shared a snap of himself playing live high-stakes roulette while courtside at a Toronto Raptors game.

Since Drake’s first foray into the crypto betting world, Stake has been tagged or had its logo appear in almost all of the rapper’s gambling-related posts.

Unsurprisingly, the logo featured in his post about the Raptors, for whom the rapper has been a global ambassador since 2013.

While many fans expressed concern over Drake’s newfound gambling habits, other eagle-eyed viewers claimed it was simply product placement.

The last time we looked into Drake’s excessive gambling habits, rumors had begun to spread that a potential Drake-Stake partnership was brewing. Less than two weeks later, Drake announced his affiliation with the crypto casino in March 2022.

The announcement, which Drake deemed “inevitable”, was posted to his Instagram (@champagnepapi) on March 2.

The rapper wrote in the caption that part of this partnership would be a live-streamed event where he could dish out prizes and share the love “with my people”.

Drake’s Sport Bets And The Drake Curse

Any bettor who keeps up with high-profile sports wagers will be well aware of the ‘Drake Curse’.

Far from the fabled King Midas, conspiracists believe that everything Drake touches turns to loss.

From Anthony Joshua to Serena Williams, any athlete endorsed or wagered on by Drake seems to suffer a shocking defeat.

The ‘Drake Curse’ is such legendary sporting folklore that analysts have crunched the numbers to see if it’s true (the myth was debunked with only 31% of associated players losing their matches, but who’s to get in the way of a good story?).

Drake’s UFC Bets

Whether it’s due to a passion for the sport or because Stake is the official partner in Asia and Latin America, Drake has funneled millions of dollars into wagering on the UFC.

Unfortunately, passion alone doesn’t win bets.

In March 2022, the Canadian star missed a $1.03 million payout after betting $275,000 that Jorge Masvidal would defeat Colby Covington.

The rapper lost another $1 million payout in May of the same year when he wagered $427,000 on Justin Gaethje to beat Charles Oliveira.

Things took a turn for the better on July 1, and it seemed the curse was momentarily lifted.

After a successful $136,000 wager on fellow Stake ambassador Israel Adesanya, Drake pocketed $897,000.

Just 10 days later, the “Hotline Bling” artist won a massive $3.7 million payout from a $2.2 million stake on Liverpudlian UFC duo Paddy Pimblett and Molly McCann.

Drake bought them both a Rolex watch as a token of his gratitude.

However, his luck ended abruptly in August, and he lost two consecutive bets totaling $430,00 on UFC fighters Kamaru Usman and Jose Aldo.

Not put off by his UFC losses, Drake placed another bet on Israel Adesanya on November 12.

Hoping to cash in once again on the Stake ambassador, Drake wagered $2 million that he would beat opponent Alex Pereira in the UFC 281 title fight on November 12.

What could’ve been a $2.9 million payout resulted in a $2 million loss.

They say the third time’s the charm, and Drake clearly hoped it would ring true when he bet once again on Adesanya in September 2023.

He wagered – and subsequently lost – $500,000 when Adesanya was defeated by Sean Strickland in UFC 293.

He then swiftly switched sides to support Strickland in his fight against Dricus Du Plessis in UFC 297.

Even though the fight was on home soil, the Toronto native lost an eye-watering $700,000.

Switching from athletes to YouTubers, Drake stacked up several bets both for and against the controversial Paul brothers, Logan and Jake.

One stepped up to the mark, while the other floundered – though neither was a winning outcome for Drake. He lost $400,000 when Logan lost to Tommy Fury in February 2023 and a further $250,000 when Jake beat former UFC Title Challenger Nate Diaz in August 2023.

Logan Paul even went so far as to blame the ‘Drake Curse’ for his loss, while victors like Dricus Du Plessis thanked the rapper for cursing his opponents and securing them the W.

Drake’s Soccer Bets

It seems his unlucky streak doesn’t end with UFC bets.

On October 16, the rapper wagered over $600,000 that both Arsenal and Barcelona would be victorious in their respective matches.

While Arsenal came through on their side of the deal, Barcelona lost 3-1 to rival team Real Madrid.

To rub salt in the wound, Barcelona’s kit featured the OVO owl logo.

The sponsorship came courtesy of Spotify, who partnered with the team to celebrate Drake becoming the first artist with 50 billion Spotify streams.

Unsurprisingly, this was used as further evidence that the ‘Drake Curse’ is alive and well.

Drake’s NFL Bets

While Drake may have tallied more losses than wins from his UFC bets, the “6 God” has had a better run when wagering on the NFL.

In February 2022, he took home $537,850 by betting on the Rams to win and on Odell Beckham Jr. to score an anytime touchdown.

Though he lost $393,000 on a separate ODJ prop bet, he recovered $235,000 in April by betting on his Californian namesake Drake London to be the 1^st drafted Wide Receiver.

Fast forward to the 2022 season, and Drake’s NFL bets are well underway.

Despite losing $208,000 on the Miami Dolphins on September 29, the rapper’s good fortunes continue.

In November, the rapper cashed out a whopping $2 million on a $287,000 bet.

The three-leg parlay predicted that the Buffalo Bills, Dallas Cowboys, and Kansas City Chiefs would be victorious in their Week 4 matchups.

Continuing to ride the lucky streak into 2023, Drake’s $1.1 million wager on the Chiefs to beat the Bengals in the AFC proved more than profitable with a $2 million payout.

Having established himself as one of the Super Bowl’s most anticipated bettors, Drizzy dropped just shy of $1 million ($965,000, to be exact) on various Super Bowl LVII bets. The biggest of these was a single $700,000 wager on the Chiefs to win the trophy.

The Kansas City Chiefs – apparently Drake’s good lucky charm – didn’t disappoint, and he bagged another $2 million payout.

Drake’s NBA Bets

Similarly, Drake’s basketball, baseball, and hockey wagers have proven highly successful.

Shortly before his bet on London in April 2022, Drake’s NBA bets on the Golden State Warriors and Dallas Mavericks saw him taking home a combined total of $729,440.

The same month, he bet on the Toronto Blue Jays to beat the Boston Red Sox and pocketed a respectable $115,240.

The lucky streak continued on May 16 when he cashed in a Game 7 parlay on the Dallas Mavericks, the Calgary Flames and the New York Rangers.

From a $309,000 stake with 8.64 total odds, Drake won an impressive $2,361,000.

This huge payout couldn’t have come at a better time, as he lost $235,000 only six days later by betting on Formula 1 racer Charles Leclerc to win the Spain Grand Prix.

That said, his basketball bets hit a bump in April 2023 when he lost a combined total of $400,000 on three NCAA parlays (including an all-Florida Final Four).

His bad luck didn’t last long, and he secured a $1 million payout when the Denver Nuggets beat Miami Heat in June 2023.

He also cashed out $850,000 from a $250,000 bet that Heat would win no more than one game.

Fast forward to January 2024, and basketball is still his number one earner. Drake started the year with a bang when he wagered $60,349 on the Indiana Pacers to beat Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA.

In comparison to some of his other wagers, the $223,292 payout is pretty average. However, it set him in good stead for the year ahead.

Clearly, the odds tip more in Drake’s favor when he bets on star-spangled soil.

In June 2022, Drake’s former NHL favorites let him down after he wagered $225,292 on a Rangers victory.

However, a swift change in tactics, a jump to the Colorado Avalanches and a $228,270 profit covered the losses of the day before.

Fortunately for the OVO entrepreneur, his decision to stick with the Golden State Warriors proved successful. Two strategic wagers on the Warriors resulted in a $1 million combined payout from the $225,292 and $111,620 stakes. 

Congrats, You Won! But We’re Keeping The Cash

An unexpected trend that occurred from December 2022 to December 2023, was that the team or person the “6 God” wagered on would win, but he’d still lose the bet.

For example, his million-dollar wager on Argentina to win the 2022 World Cup was technically correct. However, he predicted they’d win after 90 minutes of play, and not through penalties as was the outcome. Therefore, his bet was void and his e-wallet a million dollars lighter.

The same happened twice during the 2023 NCAA. He lost $250,000 despite the Huskies beating the Aztecs as predicted. Drake wagered that they’d win by a margin of 6-10 points, and they ended up 17 points above.

April 2023 wasn’t all doom and gloom, though, because he won $230,000 from a $100,000 wager on the Huskies winning by at least 11 points.

Now, we’ve already demonstrated just how bad Drake’s UFC betting history is. But in 2023, he got so close to breaking his unlucky streak.

Putting his faith once again in Logan Paul, Drake bet he would knock out MMA fighter Dillon Danis when they went head-to-head in September 2023.

Paul defied the odds and took home the trophy, but if he’d won by a knockout rather than a technicality, Drake would’ve taken home $1.4 million from his $850,000 stake.

And it seems the rapper doesn’t learn from mistakes. Just one month later, he lost $250,000 when he made the same bet on Leon Edwards to beat Colby Covington at UFC 296. Edwards was victorious, but no knockout = no cashout.

Drake’s Casino Stakes

Stake is a site that values its casino just as much as its sportsbook, and Drake is the same.

Alongside placing six- and seven-figure sports wagers, the rapper is renowned for splashing big bucks on red and black.

A week before he announced his partnership with Stake, Drake was pictured wagering over $100,000 on a single spin at an ARIA Casino high-stakes roulette table.

Since joining Stake, Drake has wagered, lost, and won some astronomical casino bets.

Rather than spinning the reels of the latest slots or beating the dealer to 21, the Toronto rapper focuses his time (and enormous bankroll) on roulette.

After all, in 2020, he dropped $620,000 on a Jacob & Co watch with a functioning roulette wheel inside.

Drake kicked off 2022 in style with a $354,000 roulette payout, taking home $215,000 on top of his original stake.

He shared a video of the win on his Instagram story with the caption, “I’m a savant… nothing sweeter than a repeater.”

Later that year, the “6 God” scored over $12 million on another roulette spin – this time while wearing a retro Arsenal shirt (an attempt to disprove the ‘Drake Curse’ theory, perhaps…?).

In 2023, his public casino wagers slowed down. However, this may soon change.

In November 2023, Drake shared a reel on his Instagram that highlighted his past wins. The caption read, “Been a long time without a big win…but I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again @Stake”.

Does this mean Drizzy will soon be reclaiming his title as Stake Casino’ biggest bettor?

Drake Vs Stake

Drake has hosted a number of live streamed events as part of his partnership with the crypto casino.

Dubbed “Drake Vs Stake”, these events give Stake players from around the world exclusive access to Drake’s own live roulette gameplay.

Alongside scoring himself some significant wins, the rapper hands out Bitcoin packages worth between $20,000 and $75,000 to players throughout the stream.

There have been at least five “Drake Vs Stake” events so far, with around $1 million worth of crypto awarded each time.

Contrary to his ‘cursed’ athletic associates, Drake frequently scores huge casino wins when betting with a partner.

Whether he’s wagering live with other streamers on Twitch or playing alongside his celebrity rapper pals, the Canadian gambling mogul has multiple million-dollar wins under his belt.

Celebrity guests often join Drake during his “Drake Vs Stake” events. The first live-streamed Twitch event, which took place on May 26 2022, saw Drake surrounded by an entourage while he wagered $500,000 per spin on a live roulette table.

Moments before his guest and fellow rapper Lil Baby entered the room, Drake won a mammoth $17.9 million on his lucky number, black 11.

On July 11 the same year, French Montana joined Drake for the second instalment of “Drake Vs Stake”. The rapper scored two more eight-figure wins, which amounted to an incredible $24.9 million.

Throughout the stream, Drake dished out another $1 million worth of Bitcoin between the 100,000 Stake members following the event.

While the winnings of his two streamed casino events amount to more than all of his successful sports wagers combined, it seems he hasn’t yet perfected the art of knowing when to cash out.

Despite starting with $8.5 million and reaching almost $27.2 million at one point, he ended the second event with less than $2,000 in his account.

His most recent “Drake VS Stake” events have been co-hosted by popular streamer Rothstein. The duo first livestreamed together in October 2022 from an arcade in Canada, where they gave out prizes worth $20,000 and video called the lucky winners.

This gambling session resulted in some major wins, including a $12.2 million and a $6.6 million payout on the roulette wheel.

Straying from his favorite tabletop game, Drake managed to score a $1 million win on the Hacksaw Gaming slot Dork Unit.

The pair hosted three further “Drake Vs Stake” events throughout 2023, including a slots-focused special where the pair won $678,600 on another Hacksaw Gaming slot, Wanted Dead or a Wild.

All but one of the “Drake Vs Stake” 2023 events were streamed from the freshly launched streaming website Kick.com. This move is unsurprising for two reasons.

The first is that Stake needed somewhere new to host its events, since Twitch banned all gambling livestreams held at casinos without a US license.

Secondly, the upstart is owned by none other than the co-founders of Stake.com, Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani.

Are Drake’s Stakes Legit?

Before Drake officially announced his partnership with Stake, people were questioning whether or not the multi-platinum-award winner was being paid to promote the site.

After Drake confirmed the partnership, the focus shifted towards a different line of questioning.

Many bettors now believe that the money Drake gambles on the site is in fact deposited by Stake itself.

Some claim he can make such high-risk bets because he is not risking his own money.

Whether or not this is true is yet to be discovered; however, with a net worth of a quarter of a billion, it’s not unreasonable to think he has the bankroll to fund such outrageous betting habits.

Stake Beyond Drake

Alongside associations with Drake and the UFC, Stake has global partnerships that are helping launch the crypto casino into the mainstream.

Stake took its first foray into the UK market in 2022. Besides opening a dedicated site for UK bettors under a new handle, Stake is the official front-of-shirt sponsor for both Everton and Watford FC.

It also signed former Manchester City striker Sergio Agüero as a brand ambassador in February 2022 and became the shirt sleeve sponsor for Peterborough’s Emirates FA Cup 5^th Round match in the same month.

In September, Stake.com landed a sponsorship deal with the European Cricket Championship. The crypto site became the principal partner for the 2022 Championships in Spain.

Further abroad, Stake launched a separate venture – Stake News – in August 2022, subsequently becoming India’s primary sponsor of Mumbai City FC.

Less than a week later, Stake became the principal sponsor of a second Indian Super League team, Hyderabad FC.

In Japan, Stake signed a deal with Volleyball World to become the official sponsor of the International Volleyball Federation’s men’s league in Osaka, Japan.

2023 brought a whole host of new partnerships, including the Alfa Romeo F1 team, Everton Football Club, and the International Tennis Federation’s Davis Cup & Billie Jean King Cup.

New ambassadors for 2023 include soccer player Gabriel ‘Gabigol’ Barbosa, and mixed martial artists Alexandre Pantoja, Gilbert ‘Durinho’ Burns and Jailton ‘Malhadinho’ Almeida.

The crypto casino kicked off 2024 with its biggest partnership the date: its own Formula One team. Its 2023 partner Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake has rebranded to become, simply, Stake F1 Team.

Alongside this announcement, Stake is now the exclusive partner for both the 2024 and 2025 F1 seasons. It is also the principal new sponsor of Esporte Clube Juventude.

Lead image: Geo News

• The Basic Rules Of Mahjong
• Understanding Mahjong Tiles
• How To Play Mahjong – Step by Step
• How To Win Mahjong
• How To Play Mahjong With 2 Players
• How To Play Mahjong With 3 Players

The Basic Rules To Play Mahjong

• There are four players in a standard game of mahjong.
• It is played with 144 numbered tiles with different depictions: 36 bamboo, 36 circles, 36 characters, 16 wind, and 12 dragon.
• Dice are used to determine the dealer and then by the dealer during gameplay.
• The goal is to make four sets and one pair of tiles before any other player. It is the concept as making winning hands in poker.
• A pair is simply any two of the same tile. A set is a Pung (three identical tiles), Chow (three tiles of the same suit), or Kong (four identical tiles).
• No tile can be used more than once in a set.

Understanding Mahjong Tiles

While 144 tiles were traditionally used – including 8 bonus symbols (4 flowers and 4 seasons) – most games use 136 tiles without bonuses. In a game of mahjong, the following tiles can be in play:

Row 1: Circles

Also known as dots, there are 36 circle tiles (four identical sets of nine tiles). Circles have up to nine circles on them and are known as 筒子tǒngzi in Chinese.

Row 2: Bamboos

There are 36 bamboo tiles (four identical sets of nine tiles). Known as 竹zhú in Chinese, the first bamboo is usually a bird symbol, and the rest are stick bamboo.

Row 3: Characters

Character tiles are another group of 36 tiles (four identical sets of nine). They depict the numbers 1 to 9 in Chinese with the Chinese word for character – 万 wàn – also on the tile.

Row 4: Dragons/Winds

There are 16 wind tiles (four identical sets of four tiles). Each set of four represents the directions (east, south, west, and north). Wind tiles – or 风牌 Fēngpái – always follow this order.

There are 12 dragon tiles (four identical sets of three tiles). They depict red, green, and white dragons. Known as 三元牌 Sān yuán pái in Chinese, the dragon symbols are their relative colors, although white dragon tiles may be blank.

Row 5: Flowers/Seasons

There are four flower and four season symbols that are bonus tiles in some mahjong variants. It is important to know about them when learning how to play Chinese mahjong, even if they are not in your variant.

How To Play Mahjong – Step By Step

Once you know the tiles and general rules, you have nearly mastered how to play mahjong online and in person! Now let’s look at the gameplay:

Set Up The Game

1. The dealer shuffles and deals one wind tile to each player. This determines where the players sit clockwise in relation to the symbol (north, west, south, east). Some games use the dice to decide which of the players is the dealer.
2. All mahjong tiles are shuffled at the same time, and each player constructs a “wall” of 34 tiles facing down. A wall must be 17 tiles long and two tiles high. If you play online, all this happens automatically, and you won’t need to build yourself.
3. Now, the dealer rolls the dice to determine where to start dealing tiles from the “wall” of stacked tiles. The number rolled on the dice corresponds to a certain spot on the wall, counting from the right side. This introduces an element of randomness to the tile distribution.
4. Then, the wall is separated (“breaking the wall”). The dealer will now deal tiles clockwise to the players from the left of the split in the wall. Each player gets 13 tiles, but the dealer gets an extra 14^th tile.
5. Players can then organize their tiles facing towards them and out of sight of other players.

Discard And Pickup Tiles

1. The dealer now discards a tile and play starts from the player sitting to the right of the dealer.
2. The first player draws a tile from the wall and discards one, aiming to create a winning combination or “meld”. The next player does the same, and so on.
3. Each tile that is discarded can be claimed by a player to help them make a winning meld of 14 tiles.
4. If no player claims the discarded tile, the next tile from the open side of the wall is taken.
5. Like before, if this tile does not help, discard it and continue playing.
6. Once a player makes a pair and four sets of tiles, they call “Mah Jong” and win the game.

How To Win Mahjong

To win in mahjong, you must be the first player to make one pair and four sets of tiles. There are three basic tile sets:

• Pung: Three identical tiles of any kind, such as 3x Green Dragons.
• Kong: Four identical tiles of any kind, such as 4x Two Circles.
• Chow: Three consecutive tiles of the same suit, such as 4-5-6 of Bamboo.

Once you’ve collected the necessary tiles, you call “Mah Jong” and win the game. If you do not get four sets and a pair, you can also win by gaining more points than your opponents.

Points In Mahjong

• A Pung gets two points if it’s exposed or four if concealed.
• A Pung of 1s and 9s, dragons or winds gets four points if exposed and eight if concealed.
• A Kong gets eight points if exposed and 16 if concealed.
• A Kong of 1s and 9s, dragons or winds get 16 points if exposed and 32 if concealed.
• A flower or season gets four points.
• A pair of dragons or winds gets two points.
• Chows offer no points but help to build a meld that could be a winning 14-tile set.

How To Play Mahjong With 2 Players

Mahjong is a four-player game, but it can also be played by two players. Instead of tweaking the game’s rules, two-player mahjong simply gives players two racks of tiles to play, and they need to win both. In other words, it merely doubles everything, and one player assumes the position of two players.

So, you build two walls and attempt to make Mah Jong two times. In some two-player variants, there are no walls, and players just take shuffled tiles from the middle of the table. Either way, all gameplay matches standard mahjong aside from one player getting 27 tiles and the other (dealer) getting 28 tiles.

How To Play Mahjong With 3 Players?

Learning how to play mahjong with three players is easy but does not follow the same principle as two-player mahjong. Instead of doubling up everything for players, three-player mahjong has exactly the same gameplay as standard 4-player variants. Four walls are still built as normal, but the dealer will only deal tiles to the three players. In other words, one wall is essentially vacant, and gameplay starts from East instead of North.

Discover more easy-to-follow game guides here.

Early Life and Introduction to Gambling

Born in New Jersey in the 1950s, Thomas Hyland’s introduction to gambling came from his father, who occasionally gambled at the local racetrack or pool hall.

In his teens, Hyland began collecting bets from his fellow high school students. He would produce photocopies of standard parlay cards and hand them out to his classmates. He even started creating his own spreadsheets, allowing other students to place wagers on high school sports.

All this saw Hyland draw in profits of $30 to $50 a week, which was a considerable amount of money at the time.

Once of age, Hyland began visiting Atlantic City and Las Vegas casinos and was irreversibly sucked into the casino buzz. He figured that by developing unique strategies, he could count card decks perfectly before deftly rounding them off the blackjack table.

Even so, Hyland never set out to pursue a career in casino gambling. In fact, he had very little success in his first few visits to casinos. However, this only encouraged Hyland to continue practicing his card counting techniques. Life as a professional blackjack player crept up on him, and since the late ‘70s, he hasn’t looked back.

The Hyland Blackjack Team

In the ’80s, he further fueled his passion for blackjack, having read Lawrence Revere’s book Playing Blackjack as a Business. Piquing the interest of like-minded gamblers, Hyland recruited a 4-member blackjack team to whom he taught his genius tricks of the trade.

One of which was his roommate. The pair of them would regularly sit together at $5 blackjack tables, one of them counting the low cards and the other counting the high cards. By whispering their findings to each other, the pair could make more educated bets. They raked in over $4,000 each!

Finding trustworthy team players can be very difficult, and it’s an even further stretch to recruit team members with equal blackjack knowledge and talent.

But as is typical with Tommy Hyland – he knew how to spot specialties. When he was first faced with filling table seats after a few original team members dropped out in the early ‘80s, talent-spotting Tommy signed up a few golfing buddies. He then made a routine of replacement to ensure the team never ceased.

Mind you, things didn’t always go to plan for the team, since their techniques seemed too good to be true to jealous competitors. In 1994, three of the group were arrested in Ontario for suspected shady gaming. Thankfully, the judge recognized that Hyland’s gaming strategies were all above board. There was no evidence of any cheating – the group was genuinely genius.

Tommy Hyland’s ‘Secret’ Strategies

Hyland is renowned for being the original player to use ace sequencing to beat blackjack. This blackjack strategy involves tracking aces throughout a game before predicting when they will reappear from the shoe. Pretty clever, huh?

As Hyland started playing blackjack at a time when advanced play methods were still under construction, he was at an advantage. Hyland is sure to go down in history as one of the pioneers of shuffle tracking and ace sequencing techniques.

Targeting Atlantic City casinos, Hyland’s 4-man band began offering “early surrenders”. This means players surrender a hand before the croupier checks for an organic blackjack.

This technique lowers the house edge by a small margin (when compared to a no surrender option). Early surrenders have an even more profound effect on the house advantage than the number of card decks.

With their blackjack tips and tricks close to their chests, Team Hyland used their expertise and a healthy mix of the era’s friendly rules to succeed rapidly. Within weeks, they’d made a $50,000 profit in Atlantic City.

To this day, pit bosses are hard-pushed to spot professional gamblers who utilize such advanced strategies. But they’ve had the time to fine-tune their spotting skills – unlike the casinos tormented by Hyland’s team antics back in the day.

Hyland’s Mark on History

To this day, there is no inkling to suggest that any other blackjack team has stood the test of time as Tommy Hyland’s did. With successes from the ‘70s into the early noughties, Hyland’s crew eventually had to hang up their blackjack hats when casinos recognized each team member.

Usually, Hyland’s team would wait months before returning to a casino they’d already played in, in an attempt to avoid getting barred. They’d even go in subtle disguises. Some team members would shave their hair, dye it or grow it out, while others would grow or shave their beards.

One December, Hyland hilariously went dressed up as Santa Clause. So much for being inconspicuous. So, the game was up – for now.

As good as Hyland is a blackjack player, he’s just as good a manager. The mogul regrouped his clan and kept them playing for more than 40 years. Though he quit managing some time ago, Hyland can still be found trying his trusty hand out at a few tables in Atlantic City.

Tommy Hyland Today

That said, don’t be fooled into thinking Hyland only retired – he’s reaped the benefits of his card game fame with a few short trips down other showbiz avenues.

In 2002, Hyland became one of the inaugural members to be indicted into the Blackjack Hall of Fame alongside the likes of Arnold Snyder, Edward O. Thorp, Ken Uston, Peter Griffin, and Stanford Wong.

Alongside this esteemed honor, Hyland’s seen his fair share of success on the big and small screens.

Starring in the Hot Shoe as himself in 2004, Hyland agreed to a documentary movie about card counting for the casino game, 21. The director himself invested $5,000 of the movie’s budget to learn the counting methods and put them to the test on screen.

A year later, Hyland featured in an episode of Breaking Vegas – a TV series about people who have attempted to make fortunes by playing games against the house.

Not quite finished with the excitement of “lights, camera, and action”, Hyland then enjoyed a role in Inside the Edge: A Professional Blackjack Adventure. The docufilm gives you a sneak peek into the world of professional blackjack players as they take on casinos for millions of dollars.

These days, his long-supporting wife gets to see a lot more of her husband, since he and his team aren’t causing such a show on the casino floor. His net worth is still reported to be over $1 million.

These juicy extra features can help you become an instant millionaire, so let’s check out some of the best slot machines with bonus games, both online and at land-based casinos.

Best Online Slots With Bonus Games

Starburst

A timeless classic that’s super easy to play and great for both big and small bankrolls.

As far as slot games go, it’s quite basic. However, it offers high payouts and the opportunity to win big with the Starburst Expanding Wilds.

When the Starburst Wild appears on the reels (it can appear on reels 2, 3 and 4), it helps to create a winning combo by replacing other symbols. Any Starburst Wilds will also expand to cover the whole reel. You then get a respin with the Wild reel/s.

If you are lucky enough to land five of the Wilds, you’ll walk away with the juicy jackpot!

Starburst has an RTP of 96.09% and a medium variance.

• Starburst full review
• Play Starburst for free

Book of Dead

This Egyptian-themed slot is best for casual players, as the maximum betting amount is lower compared to other games.

That said, you can still win up to 250,000 coins in Book of Dead thanks to its rewarding free spins bonus game.

Landing 3 or more Book scatter symbols will unlock the bonus and take you to the exciting Sacred Chamber bonus round with 10 free spins. It’s possible to re-trigger the free spins infinitely, plus, alongside the unlimited spin, one random feature will also be an expanding symbol to boost payouts.

With a high RTP of 96.21%, it’s worth checking out.

• Book of Dead full review
• Play Book of Dead for free

Immortal Romance

This vampire-themed 243 ways slot game from Microgaming has plenty of ways to win and some incredible bonus action to sink your teeth into.

It has a four-level bonus round – the Chamber of Spins – that unlocks as you play.

• Your first bonus is 15 free spins that multiplies winnings by 5x.
• Once your Chamber of Spins meter reaches five, you’ll unlock 15 free spins and the Bat feature.
• At 10, you’ll activate 20 free spins with a Cascading Reels feature.
• After the 15th trigger, you unlock 25 free spins with a Wild Vine feature.

Alongside the generous 96.85% RTP, the variance is extremely high. You will have regular small wins but need the bonus games for bigger payouts.

Overall, expect tons of free spins and wilds features, with the chance to win its mega 3,645,000-coin jackpot.

• Immortal Romance full review
• Play Immortal Romance for free

Bigger Bass Bonanza

This slot is a follow-up game to Big Bass Bonanza. It’s pretty similar to the original, give or take a few extras, like the expanded reel set and earning potential.

You’ll find a solid free spins feature with rewarding wilds, plus a fish scatter worth 4,000x your bet.

This free spins bonus is the center of the game and the path to bigger wins. You receive 10, 15, or 20 free spins on 3, 4, or 5 scatter symbols. During free spins, wild symbols help to stack wins, and the angler character collects the wilds. Every 4^th wild that lands will deliver 10 more free spins, with multipliers of 2x, 3x, or 10x.

It has a high RTP of 96.71% and high volatility.

• Play Bigger Bass Bonanza for free

Fruit Party

Although Fruit Party looks pretty plain and basic, it offers some nice features and a great jackpot prize of 5,000x your bet.

You can get free spins with no limit on how many times they can be retriggered, as well as the Random Multiplier feature, which can show up at any point.

The base game’s Random Multiplier feature offers 2x boosts, which also appear during the Free Spins round. In this bonus game, you get 10 free spins that enable stacking multipliers. Here, you can build random multipliers up to 256x your stake.

Fruity Party has a RTP of 96.47% and medium variance.

• Play Fruit Party for free

Wheel of Fortune

A back-to-basics video slot that has become a cult classic, Wheel of Fortune delivers big wins on a Tripler Big Spin feature.

Yes, the game borrows the name from the iconic game show, but actually has little resemblance to it. Featuring 5 reels and up to 720 paylines, Wheel of Fortune has a higher variance and slightly above-average RTP of 96.1%.

There are several bonus games to sink your teeth into, including Wild Bonus and the Mini Wheel. You can also unlock the Wheel of Fortune Bonus for 5 symbols that could land 10,000 coin wins.

The Triple Extreme Spin Bonus allows you to choose a random envelope, which then provides a multiplier on spins. These multipliers can lead to the top payout of 5,000,000 coins.

• Wheel of Fortune full review
• Play Wheel of Fortune for free

Divine Fortune

Divine Fortune is a popular progressive jackpot game from NetEnt. The local progressive jackpot opens by getting three gold coins and has an average payout of around $115,000.

There is a standard RTP of 96.59%, although the jackpot is 4.07%, so the RTP without bonus is 92.52%. Even in the non-jackpot game, big wins can happen thanks to four different bonus rounds.

Falling Wilds Respins can happen when a wild hits the reels. It will shift one position and provide a Respin. Overlay Wilds can land on top of a wild and expand across the whole reel. The Divine Fortune free spins round delivers up to 12 free spins, and the Falling Wilds Respins and Overlay Wilds are available during free spins.

• Play Divine Fortune for free

Best Land-Based Slots With Bonus Games

Many of the slot titles below are also available to play online.

Whether you prefer to play from the comfort of your own home, on the go, or in your local casino, there’s an option here for you!

Cleopatra

This Egyptian-themed slot machine has stood the test of time – and for good reason.

Players can trigger a free spins bonus round where 15 free spins are up for grabs with a 3x multiplier.

During this bonus round, you can trigger more free spins, up to a maximum of 180.

It’s one of the more simplistic bonus features around but the payouts make it worthwhile.

There have been a number of follow-ups to the game, including Cleopatra Plus, Cleopatra Mega Jackpots and Cleopatra Gold.

Whether it’s the classic or a newer rendition, there’s going to be a version you’ll love.

• Cleopatra full review
• Play Cleopatra for free

Zeus

Another classic favorite, this Greek mythology-themed slot offers a 5-reel, 30-payline game where you can win up to 100 free spins as a bonus.

The potential wins from those free spins have helped propel the slot into slots immortality.

Follow-up releases of Zeus II, Zeus III, and Zeus: God of Thunder have been equally well received by slots players.

10, 25, or 100 free spins are available for 3, 4, or 5 scatter symbols, respectively, and you can re-trigger unlimited times.

• Zeus full review
• Play Zeus for free

Buffalo

The legendary Buffalo slot from Aristocrat is a superbly volatile game with 1,024 paylines.

This means you can win money really quickly and those wins are easy to come by, but your bank balance can also plummet quickly too – so be careful.

The bonus round in this game is where you can really make your money. You get free spins, which might sound standard, however, they have a twist.

During the Free Spins bonus, you get up to 20 spins with wild symbols up to 3x. A wild symbol helps to potentially stack multipliers up to 27x, and you can also re-trigger the free spins.

Similarly to Cleopatra, there are also some newer versions of the game that offer exciting twists on the original.

• Buffalo full review
• Play Buffalo for free

Book of Ra

This 5-reel, 10-payline slot has proved particularly popular in Europe, with Novomatic really pushing it in a number of countries in that region.

The jackpot is great on this game, though with just 10 paylines, you will need to rely on Lady Luck to help you win.

The bonus round is packed with expanding symbols, which is ideal for bringing in extra wins.

10 free spins are available, with up to 5,000x your bet up for grabs if the whole game grid has the expanding symbol.

Wins are not frequent due to the extreme volatility and 95.1% RTP, but when they do land, the payouts can be big.

• Book of Ra full review
• Play Book of Ra for free

Rainbow Riches

Initially, players were critical that Rainbow Riches didn’t offer a free spins bonus round.

However, when it soon became obvious how incredible the Pots of Gold Bonus, Road to Riches Bonus, and Wishing Well Bonus were, it was clear the lack of free spins didn’t matter.

And the jackpot is insane!

It’s no surprise that this game spawned several sequels online including Rainbow Riches: Reels of Gold and Rainbow Riches: Pick ‘n’ Mix.

Rainbow Riches is a medium volatility game with an RTP of 95.1%.

• Rainbow Riches full review
• Play Rainbow Riches for free

Bier Haus

The graphics and animations might be a little dated, but Bier Haus continues to be a hugely popular title among slots players.

The Oktoberfest-themed title has a great RTP of 96.28%, which is above average for land-based slots.

The free spins feature is its biggest feature, which doesn’t sound as impressive as other games on this list, but will be huge if you land it. 

You can get up to a maximum of 80 free spins.  There are also Persisting Wilds (sticky wilds) that lock a position for the whole bonus round.

• Bier Haus full review
• Play Bier Haus for free

88 Fortunes

The free spins bonus round and the chance to hit four progressive jackpots mean you’ve got a high win potential in this game, however the game is very volatile.

Fu-Bat is the jackpot feature where you try to match Baby symbols for 1 or 4 jackpots.

Keep your eyes peeled for the Gong Scatters, as if you land three on adjacent reels you’ll trigger the bonus game with 10 free spins. The features also replaces low-value symbols with high-value symbols.

88 Fortunes has an RTP of 96% for the non-jackpot game.

• 88 Fortunes full review
• Play 88 Fortunes for free

Try Before You Buy

If you want to get a feel for any of these games before you play them at the casino or online, we suggest trying out the free version first.

This way you can get a sense of their volatility, how they work and whether you think it’s worth your while before risking any real money.

These lucky numbers are determined by the alignment of the planets at the time of your birth, along with other factors linked to your zodiac sign. For example, the ruling planet, its corresponding element, specific personality traits, and more. They are believed to positively influence you and impact your life. Worth a shot, don’t you think?

Aquarius Lucky Numbers 

• January 20 – February 18
• Lucky number: 11

Aquarius, Latin for water-bearer, is the eleventh astrological sign in the zodiac, originating from the constellation Aquarius. It is a fixed air sign ruled by the planets of Saturn and Uranus.

If you’re an Aquarius, you are a social person and a visionary who wants to make the world a better place. You’re humble but won’t allow others to influence your opinion easily. So it will be hard to convince you not to pick number 11. 11 symbolizes idealism and a vision for a better future, which closely links to your forward-thinking and humanitarian nature.

Pisces Lucky Numbers

• February 19 – March 20
• Lucky number: 7

Pisces is the twelfth sign in the Zodiac, ruled by the planets Neptune and Jupiter. It’s a mutable water sign represented by twin fish swimming in opposite directions. If you’re a Pisces, you’re big-hearted, intuitive, and get along with people from all walks of life. This is why you should pick number 7, as it’s associated with your spirituality, creativity, and inner wisdom.

Aries Lucky Numbers

• March 21 – April 19
• Lucky numbers: 9, 6

Aries, derived from “Ares,” the Greek god of war, is the first sign of the Zodiac. Ruled by the planet of assertion, Mars, and symbolized by the ram, you are ambitious, driven, and unafraid to dive headfirst into any situation.

Being a fire sign means you possess high energy levels, represented by the highest single-digit number 9. The number 6 is also lucky for you, hot-headed Aries. These numbers are expected to bring you good fortune and financial success. So, if you’re an Aries on the hunt for prosperity, you should choose 9 and 6.

Taurus Lucky Numbers

• April 20 – May 20
• Lucky numbers: 5,6

Taurus is the second sign of the Zodiac, ruled by the planet Venus and represented by the celestial bull. If you’re a Taurus, material needs and success are always at the center of your concerns. As an earth sign, you are naturally caring towards others.

If there are two numbers you should gravitate towards the most, they should be the number 5 and the number 6. 5 guarantees financial prosperity, while 6 is associated with balance and harmony. These are important for you Tauruses, who strive for stability and a clear state of mind.

Gemini Lucky Numbers

• May 21 – June 20
• Lucky numbers: 5

Gemini is the third sign of the zodiac, ruled by the planet Mercury and represented by The Twins. If you’re born under this mutable air sign, you are light-hearted and curious and know how to keep a conversation going for hours on end. You find it easy to make new friends, and being ruled by the planet of communication, you certainly have the gift of the gab.

The number 5 is lucky for you because it represents intelligence, curiosity, and confidence – all traits that align with your sign. So, you should go for 5 to invite luck and positive energy into your life.

Cancer Lucky Numbers

• June 21 – July 22
• Lucky numbers: 2

Cancer is a cardinal water sign and the fourth astrological sign. If you’re a Cancer, you are nurturing by nature and will go out of your way to ensure that the people you care for are looked after. Your zodiac symbol is the crab, and similar to those hard-shell crustaceans, you can be a little crabby from time to time.

Being ruled by the moon, there’s no wonder you will find luck in the number 2. It’s connected to the moon and represents balance and harmony, which is very important for you caring Cancerians.

Leo Lucky Numbers

• July 23 – August 22
• Lucky numbers: 1

Leo is a fire sign and the fifth sign in the zodiac. Ruled by the sun and represented by the lion, you’re meant to lead the pack. Whether you plan it or not, you’re always at the center of attention; your loud roar barely goes unnoticed.

As natural-born leaders, you will naturally gravitate towards the number 1. Let this number guide you through life, and embrace every obstacle in your path. If you’re a Leo looking to take charge of your life and reach your goals, open your heart to 1.

Virgo Lucky Numbers

• August 23 – September 22
• Lucky numbers: 3

Virgo is the sixth sign in the zodiac, symbolized by the maiden. It’s often depicted with the Goddess of Shala, who ruled over fertility and the harvest. Being a mutable earth sign, you are the perfectionist of the zodiac. You are meticulous and apply very high standards to yourself and others.

Ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, you will be drawn to the number 3. 3 symbolizes communication, creativity, and self-expression, helping you tap into your creative side.

Libra Lucky Numbers

• September 23 – October 22
• Lucky numbers: 7

Libra is a cardinal air sign that is the seventh sign in the zodiac. Libra is represented by the weighing scale, and one of your major traits involves craving balance in all walks of life. Ruled by the planet of love, Venus, you crave to be in happy and fulfilling relationships. You are also extremely courteous individuals who will avoid chaos and drama at all costs.

You will find luck in the number 7. 7 is associated with spirituality and wisdom.

Scorpio Lucky Numbers

• October 23 – November 21
• Lucky numbers: 8

Scorpio, symbolized by the scorpion, is the eighth sign in the zodiac. Being ruled by the planets of Mars and Pluto, you are both passionate and powerful. Tendencies often mistaken for a fire sign. But the element attached to your sign is actually water.

You are loyal and strong-minded and will make a statement wherever you go. You have a strong desire for success, and the number 8 aligns perfectly with this.

Sagittarius Lucky Numbers

• November 22 – December 21
• Lucky numbers: 3

Sagittarius is the ninth sign in the zodiac, ruled by the planet Jupiter and represented by the archer. You show traits derived from your zodiac symbol, the centaur; you live life to the fullest and find joy in experiencing new things. The centaur is half man and half horse, so you often possess a deep love for animals.

As a mutable fire sign, the number 3 is lucky for you. 3, associated with the energies of the divine, encourages you to have a positive outlook on life and embrace your adventurous side, deep-rooted from birth.

Capricorn Lucky Numbers

• December 22 – January 19
• Lucky numbers: 4

Capricorn is the last earth sign and the tenth in the zodiac wheel. It’s ruled by the planet Saturn and represented by the sea goat. You are achievement-oriented individuals who will climb mountains to make it to the top.

Like all earth signs, you have a masterful and determined energy and will not stop until you have reached your goal. This is why you coolheaded Capricorns will gravitate towards the number 4. 4 represents focus and stability. If you’re a Capricorn looking to maintain self-discipline when pursuing your goals, or simply looking for your lucky number, pick 4.

What Are Lucky Numbers? 

In astrology, everyone has a lucky number from birth. These lucky numbers can bring good luck, fortune, and positive energy to our lives. Many people believe that these lucky numbers can help alter any course of action and bring forth several positive possibilities, allowing you to flourish and achieve all that you desire from life.

What Numbers Are Lucky Generally?  

When it comes to lucky numbers, everyone always assumes that 7 is lucky and 13 is unlucky, but many astrologers will disagree. In astrology, 8 is seen as a lucky number because its shape forms the sign for infinity. It’s also linked to prosperity, success, and material wealth. So, if the angel number 8 repeatedly appears in your presence, you can expect financial prosperity.

Another lucky number, according to many astrologers, is the number 3. This number is associated with Jupiter, the planet of good fortune, and has always held powerful symbolism. The world is filled with trinities and triads like the Holy Trinity, and the saying goes, good things come in threes. This is why many individuals believe that the number 3 is a good omen and utilize it to help make important decisions in life.

When it comes to lucky numbers for love, the number 6 is seen as particularly lucky. This is because the number 6 is associated with Venus, the planet of love and beauty. Therefore, individuals with a strong connection with the number 6 are considered lucky in love, romance, and relationships.

FAQs

For more articles about luck, check out The Luckiest Casinos in Vegas and The Lucky Color of The Year. Or head here for Different Ways To Pick Lottery Numbers.

Lead image credit: Mariia Shalabaieva/Unsplash

Skip to:

• The Lucky Color For 2024: The Year Of The Dragon
• Other Lucky Colors For 2024
• Your Lucky Color According To The Chinese Zodiac
• Your Lucky Color According To The Western Zodiac
• How To Use Your Lucky Colors

The Lucky Color For 2024: The Year Of The Dragon

In 2024, it’s out with the Water Rabbit and in with the Wood Dragon. It’s a time for power, fortune, and prosperity. But what vibrant hue is the most auspicious for us during the reign of the regal dragon?

The Year of the Dragon 2024 lucky color is a bright and vivid shade of emerald green.

According to the ancient practice of feng shui, emerald green is the color of nature, harmony, and growth that aligns perfectly with the wood element, the dominant element of this dragon year.

Wood, known for its transformative powers, represents growth, vitality, and the spirit of renewal. This is why welcoming the vibrant and generative energy of emerald green into your environment can help bring about positive vibes and prosperity. So, if you want to truly embrace the Year of the Dragon and attract wealth, abundance, and good fortune, you should wear and decorate with the color emerald green.

Other Lucky Colors For 2024

Golden yellow and rich red are two other lucky colors for 2024. In Chinese culture, these colors are derived from the elements of wood and earth, the two main energies of the dragon.

According to the Chinese Five Elements Theory, earth supports wood, and we already know that the main element for this year is wood. Golden yellow is a color connected to the Earth element. It’s associated with success, royalty, and great fortune. Not only can this color help to protect and balance your energy, but it also attracts wealth, abundance, and luck for the year ahead.

Rich red has always been considered a lucky color in Chinese culture. It’s widely used in many festivals and important events like weddings. It symbolizes happiness, success, and good fortune. However, it’s considered particularly lucky for the 2024 year of the dragon because it’s the color of fire. This passionate color can help increase your confidence and motivation for the year ahead.

Chinese Zodiac: What Is Your Lucky Color?

In Chinese astrology, the Chinese zodiac is represented by 12 animals, each boasting its own unique qualities and attributes. And beyond individual traits, the zodiac cycle suggests predictions for each animal sign for the new lunar year. So, which colors are expected to bring you the most luck and good fortune for the 2024 year of the dragon?

Rat: Blue and Green

If you’re born in the years of the rat, you are intelligent, sociable, and will give everything to achieve your goals. Your lucky colors for 2024 are blue and green. These colors will allow you to embrace your inner confidence.

•  Born in: 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020

Ox: Red and Yellow

Honesty and patience are your two main traits if you were born in the years of the Ox. Your lucky colors for the year of the dragon are red and yellow. These colors symbolize happiness and power. Good fortune and financial stability are on the horizon for you if you incorporate red and yellow tones into your life.

•  Born in: 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021

Tiger: Blue and Orange

The next animal of the Chinese zodiac is the ferocious tiger. If you’re born in the years of the tiger, you are courageous, active, and have a keen sense of adventure. Your lucky colors for 2024 are blue and orange. These colors will enable you to grow as a person and find your best self.

•   Born in: 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

Rabbit: Red, Purple, and Pink

If you were born in the years of the rabbit, you are often described as gentle, intelligent, and affectionate. It looks like 2024 will be a successful year for you career-wise. Embrace your lucky colors: red, purple, and pink. With the help of these colors to attract wealth and abundance this year.

•  Born in: 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011

Dragon: Green and Gold

If you’re born in the years of the dragon, you are ambitious and strive for excellence in whatever you undertake. This year is forecasted to bring immense joy, but not without a few bumps and challenges. Your lucky colors for 2024 are green and gold. Pick green and gold to boost your luck, avoid trouble, and protect your energy.

•  Born in: 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

Snake: Black and Red

The snake is the next animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac signs. As a snake, you are intelligent and charming and will not show your weak side to others. A year of both personal and spiritual development is on the cards for you, snake, if you embrace your lucky colors: black and red. There will be a lot of positive surprises in your love life, too.

•  Born in: 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013

Horse: Yellow and Orange

If you are born in the years of the horse, you are free-spirited and independent and need space to express yourself. Allying with the dragon, 2024 will be a year brimming with hope and prosperity. Don’t be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone. Use your lucky colors, yellow and orange, to help guide you and avoid any negative energy.

• Born in: 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014

Goat: White and Gray

Those born in the year of the goat are compassionate, nurturing, and have a strong sense of justice. The year of the dragon may bring about a significant change in your life. For you, 2024 will likely be a year of personal growth and discovery. You will find luck in the colors white and gray. Be open to new ideas and open your heart to white and gray for a year of clarity, balance, and growth.

• Born in: 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015

Monkey: Yellow and Green

If you are born in the years of the monkey, you tend to be smart, quick-witted, and playful by nature. The year of the dragon is expected to bring new opportunities for income and growth. Your lucky colors for 2024 are yellow and green. Incorporating these joyful colors into your life will bring about unexpected delights and exciting energy.

• Born in: 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016

Rooster: Gold and Purple

If you are born in the years of the rooster, you are often regarded as self-assured and confident. It comes as no surprise you also make great leaders. You are anticipated to have good fortune in 2024, particularly in terms of your career and social life. You should embrace your lucky colors, gold and purple, to steer clear of unfavorable circumstances.

•   Born in: 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017

Dog: Black and Blue

If you’re born in the years of the dog, you are loyal and honest and will go above and beyond for your loved ones. New avenues for growth and evolution will open up in 2024, but challenges will also arise. Your lucky colors are black and blue, so use these colors to attract wealth and abundance and ward off negative energy.

Born in: 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018

Pig: Pink and Brown

According to the Chinese zodiac, pigs are among the luckiest for the 2024 year of the dragon. Your laid-back and caring nature makes it easy for you to build new friendships. Love and romance are on the cards for you this year, but it’s important not to neglect other areas of life. Your lucky colors are pink and brown, so incorporate these into your surroundings to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

•  Born in: 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019

Lucky Colors For The 12 Zodiac Signs Of The Year

In astrology, the zodiac sign you were born under can affect all areas of life, including relationships, health, and even your career. But did you know that each of the 12 zodiac signs is also associated with a different power color? By incorporating this color into your life, it can help bring luck, prosperity, and good fortune.

Aquarius Lucky Color: Blue

(January 20 – February 18)

Typically represented as a young man pouring water from a container, Aquarius is an air sign ruled by the planets of Saturn and Uranus. If you are born under this sign, you will find luck in the color blue, particularly electric blue. Blue is a color of confidence and wisdom; incorporating it into your life will help you embrace your inner strength.

Pisces Lucky Color: Green

(February 19 – March 20)

Pisces is a water sign ruled by the planets of Neptune and Jupiter. It’s represented by two fish swimming in opposite directions. If you’re a Pisces, you will have a natural attraction to the color green. You are spiritual by nature, and this color, representing growth and renewal, will allow you to stay focused on your journey of self-development.

Aries Lucky Color: Red

(March 21 – April 19)

Aries is a fire sign ruled by the planets of Mars. Symbolized by the ram, you have a fiery and intense spirit that deeply aligns with the color red. Let this passionate color bring you luck in all your endeavors this year.

Taurus Lucky Color: Pink

(April 20 – May 20)

Symbolized by the bull, Taurus is an earth sign ruled by the planet of Venus. You are persistent, hard-working, and extremely compassionate. It’s no surprise your lucky color is pink, the color of love. This color brings out your nurturing side and will help you build new relationships.

Gemini Lucky Color: Yellow

(May 21 – June 20)

Gemini is an air sign ruled by the planet of Mercury. Symbolized by a pair of twins, you are known to be social, playful, and intellectually curious. You may feel an innate pull towards the color yellow. Let this happen; this cheerful color will encourage you to tap into your creative side and even help you to progress career-wise.

Cancer Lucky Color: Silver

(June 21 – July 22)

Cancer is a water sign represented by the crab. If you are born under this sign, you are calm, gentle, and home-loving by nature. Being ruled by the moon, your lucky color is silver. This spiritual color will help ward off negative energy and open the doors to success.

Leo Lucky Color: Orange

(July 23 – August 22)

Leo is a fire sign represented by the lion. You will feel a deep connection with the color orange. This is because you are ruled by the sun. You are passionate and energetic, and orange will bring out your fiery nature. You were born to lead, so let orange guide you to achieve great success in your career.

Virgo Lucky Color: Green

(August 23 – September 22)

Virgo is an earth sign ruled by the planet of Mercury and symbolized by the Virgin. Since the Virgin is closely related to agriculture, green serves as your power color. You are the perfectionists of the zodiac, and the earthy color of green has a calming effect.

Libra Lucky Color: Blue

(September 23 – October 22)

Symbolized by the weighing scales, Libra is an air sign ruled by planet Earth. You are diplomatic and able to see both sides of any argument. Your lucky color is blue, particularly light blue. Blue represents peace, balance, and calmness, which will help you stay healthy both mentally and physically.

Scorpio Lucky Color: Black

(October 23 – November 21)

Scorpio is a water sign ruled by the planets of Mars and Pluto and represented by the Scorpion. On the outside, you are powerful and passionate, but underneath is a layer of sensitivity that is saved for your nearest and dearest. Your personality has many layers; this is why black is your color. This mysterious color will help you to focus on your goals, so to all Scorpios looking to achieve positive outcomes in the year ahead, pick black.

Sagittarius Lucky Color: Purple

(November 22 – December 21)

Sagittarius is a fire sign ruled by the planet of Jupiter and represented by a centaur holding a bow. If you’re born under this sign, you will find the color purple lucky. Purple brings out your creative side and can help you to fulfil your potential, resulting in tremendous career growth. It is also the color of abundance.

Capricorn Lucky Color: Brown

(December 22 – January 19)

Capricorn is an earth sign ruled by the planet of Saturn and represented by the sea goat. You are incredibly dedicated to your goals and will find luck in the color brown. You are practical by nature, and this color can help enhance your sense of security and be more daring.

How To Use Your Lucky Colors

You already know the lucky colors for 2024 are emerald green, golden yellow, and rich red. But how can you incorporate these color palettes into your life to help attract good fortune? Here are some suggestions from Feng Shui experts:

• Dress for success: If you want to attract more luck in 2024, consider adding some emerald green, golden yellow, or rich red items to your wardrobe.
• Add feng shui objects to your home: Placing feng shui objects in their lucky colors within recommended spaces can help bring positive energy to your home.
•  Decorate your home: Paint your walls or doors emerald green, golden yellow, and rich red to sprinkle a bit of luck in your life. Or if that’s too much, why not just add some decorative accessories in those colors?
• Buy yourself a new wallet: Feng shui your wallet or purse by purchasing one in those lucky colors. This can help bring monetary gains into your life. Then take it to Vegas.
• Incorporate lucky colors into your workspace: Whether it’s lining your desk drawers with shades of emerald green or adding a rich red pen to your desk, using these lucky colors within your work environment can be a great way to bring good fortune and abundance career-wise.

FAQs About Lucky Colors

What is the lucky color of the year 2024?

The lucky color of the year 2024 is emerald green. Other lucky colors include golden yellow and rich red. Consider incorporating these colors into your life to attract wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.

What is a lucky color?

A lucky color is a color believed to bring about good fortune and positive energy to someone. Lucky colors vary across different cultures and traditions. In Chinese culture, lucky colors are determined by the elements and the zodiac year we are in.

What is my lucky color??

Lucky colors often vary across different cultures and beliefs. Use this guide to tell you not only your lucky color according to Feng Shui and the Chinese Zodiac, but also the Western Zodiac.

Is red a lucky color?

In Chinese culture, red is strongly associated with good luck, fortune, and happiness. This is why it is commonly used in celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, and the Chinese New Year. It is thought to bring positive energy and ward off evil spirits.

What color is lucky generally?

In Chinese culture, red is always a lucky color, but for 2024 as a whole, use emerald green to attract luck and prosperity.

For more about luck, check our our article about lucky charms or lucky numbers.

Then suddenly, his world came crashing down. Citing a breach of the terms and conditions in 2018, YouTube shut down his account and removed his channel from its listings.

The reasoning that YouTube’s parent company gave was that one of his videos violated the site’s terms and conditions relating to… “violent or dangerous acts.” Suddenly, Christopher was left battling to save his channel.

So, what happened to Brian Christopher?

Brian Christopher’s rise to fame

Slot machines had a particular reputation when it came to gambling. While sports betting and table games like poker have always piqued the interest of a younger audience, some saw slot machines as gambling for retirees.

Then online gambling exploded, and the top game producers suddenly created captivating titles that featured great graphics, engaging bonus rounds, and unique features. These titles introduced slot games to a new generation of players.

Brian Christopher launched his career by traveling throughout the US, heading to land-based casinos and playing slot machines. He would chronicle his wins and losses in his typical style, making large bets, living on the edge, and trying to win the jackpot. Views poured in, and a fanbase around Christopher emerged.

Christopher would also answer live questions from fans throughout his videos, which connected his subscribers to him. In this sense, he was ahead of his time.

Now, with the rise of game streaming services like Twitch, a regular back-and-forth between subscribers and content creators is common. Then, he was at the forefront of this movement.

Brian Christopher’s YouTube channel seemed to tap into an audience who wanted to see more of the real ups and downs of gambling. In doing so, he became the poster boy for the new world of slot games.

Brian falls foul of YouTube’s regulations

In 2018, Christopher began to receive warnings from YouTube. Alphabet (YouTube’s parent company) had warned the channel for videos containing “violent and dangerous acts,” even though the most violent Christopher ever got was perhaps clicking on a slot game a bit too vigorously.

Later in the year, in June, the channel was sent another message from YouTube. This message said that it had closed Brian Gambles for repeated or severe violations of YouTube’s community guidelines. For someone who had spent over a decade making videos, this must have felt like his world was crashing down.

Content creation was his full-time job, and he employed two full-time staff. When YouTube deactivated his channel, he looked set to lose hundreds of original videos and the product of nearly 12 years of work. Brian Gambles was also a family affair, and his husband since 2008, Marco, regularly appeared in videos.

Other gambling channels were also affected. The Big Jackpot, which has over 461,000 subscribers and nearly 219 million views, was also suspended as part of a general sweep of gambling creators on the platform.

For Brian Christopher, suspension meant that his ad revenue suddenly stopped, summing $20,000 per month.

But why?!

A sweep that included two of the biggest gambling channels might suggest YouTube was targeting content creators in this field. Despite coming far in the US since the US Supreme Court overturned PASPA, not to mention the popularity of gambling in Europe, US companies were still twitchy when it came to gambling. The irony of the overturning of PASPA coming just one month before Brian Christopher’s channel was suspended won’t be lost on many people.

YouTube’s parent company reasoned that his video “Smokin’ Hot Gems, BIG WIN, Mammoth Power Slot Machine Pokies w Brian Christopher“, violated the site’s terms and conditions relating to… “violent or dangerous acts.”

But the disparity between the accusations against the Brian Gambles channel and the reality was another factor dripping in irony. YouTube’s community guidelines offer explicit definitions of harmful content, and Brian Christopher’s videos came nowhere near them.

So, it seems YouTube’s decision to suspend Brian Gambles may not have been due to its content breaking specified community guidelines, but as part of a more comprehensive policy against gambling channels.

Eventually, they relented

Understanding the hollow nature of the cited breach of community guidelines, Brian Christopher decided to appeal the decision and restore his channel. He explained that he had not breached guidelines and that he followed all of YouTube’s rules.

YouTube rejected his appeal without a proper explanation. Other requests by channels like The Big Jackpot also failed.

Then, without warning, YouTube contacted Christopher to inform him they were reinstating his channel. As he had explained to them in depth, they concluded that he had not broken any rules. The platform also reinstated other gambling channels like The Big Jackpot.

Some have speculated that an error with the platform’s AI systems led to the sweep of gambling channels in 2018. Others have suggested a broader policy to marginalize gambling content on the platform. Whatever the reason, Brian Christopher was back and able to begin producing content with the rest of his team, including Britt Carter.

He soon changed the channel’s name to Brian Christopher Slots (or BC Slots). While the reinstation allowed him to resume monetization, YouTube seriously damaged the channel’s finances with the suspension.

Where is Brian Christopher Slots today?

Despite all these challenges, BC Slots resumed production of the videos we know and love, and ad revenue continued. Christopher would surely be forever weary of the threat of sudden closure, but rebuilt his YouTube empire.

In July 2022, he even created his own slot game with Gaming Arts. Christopher debuted his new slot machine Pop’N Pays More at the Plaza Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

As of 2024, he has nearly 650,000 YouTube subscribers and nearly 500 million views. Brian Christopher’s net worth, stemming from ad revenue and merchandise sales, is estimated to be around $3 million.

Brian Christopher Slots (or BC Slots) remains one of the biggest gambling channels on YouTube, despite the setback of his suspension. Further questions remain about the fragility of YouTube channels, and soul-searching across the industry about the nature of Alphabet’s platform governance continues.

As BC Slots shows, arbitrary suspensions can have a real financial impact on YouTubers. But Brian Christopher’s decision to continue on the platform shows that creators have few options but to co-exist with YouTube’s management.

Users love to consume the content that Brian Christopher Slots creates, but if platforms have the ultimate say in what can and can’t be hosted on its sites, that relationship is precarious.

If it happened once, who can say it won’t happen again?

For something similar, check out What Ever Happened To Tommy Hyland.

Lead Image: @BCSlots / X

We’re going to set the record straight once and for all by explaining the most commonly believed gambling myths – and why they’re not true.

MYTH 1: Casinos Pump Oxygen Into The Air

Some gamblers believe that casinos secretly add more oxygen to the AC on casino floors to make customers more energetic and therefore more likely to gamble, and some believe they even add pheromones.

This is false and there is a logical reason why.

Oxygen is not pumped into casinos since it would increase the flammability of the air and make it a fire risk. And no casino wants to burn itself to the ground. Think about it.

Oh, and it’s also illegal to tamper with air supplies in many countries. So if you’re playing in a legal, licensed casino, you should be good.

MYTH 2: Casino Games Are Rigged

Let’s make one thing absolutely clear: Casino games are not rigged.

Are casino games designed to give the house the edge? Of course, that’s how casinos make money.

But this edge plays out over a long period across thousands of players. It doesn’t mean you can’t win.

Many people accept that table games are fair, as they can see what the dealer is doing at all times.

But what about slots? How can you really know what’s going on inside a slot machine?

Every slot game uses a random number generator (RNG) to determine what symbols will land and guarantee random results. You have the same chance of hitting a payout on every spin.

Now you don’t just have to take our word on RNGs. You know when a legal casino describes itself as licensed and regulated? Part of that regulation involves third parties coming and testing the RNGs on slot games.

There is a pinch of salt in this myth, as games are built so the casino will win over time.

But games aren’t rigged, and you have as much a chance as anyone of walking away with a big win.

? No, Slot Machines Aren’t Rigged. A Casino Worker Explains Why

MYTH 3: Card Counting Is Illegal

There is nothing illegal about card counting, and you can’t be thrown in jail if you’re caught.

However, most casinos don’t want you to count cards because it reduces the house edge, so won’t take kindly to players doing it.

? How Casinos Catch Card Counters And Why You Should Avoid Trying It

The most likely punishment if you get caught is you’ll be asked to leave the casino. At worst, they may also notify other casinos about who you are.

You’re not suddenly going to find a court summons in your mailbox one day if you count cards.

This is a myth supported by casinos because it benefits them if you think there are severe repercussions for card counting.

MYTH 4: Gambling Isn’t Addictive

This one is crucial, as recognizing that gambling is addictive is a significant step towards preventing problem gambling.

You feel good when you hit a win while playing casino games because your brain releases chemicals like dopamine. The more you trigger this reaction, the more you need to activate that same feeling.

As gamblers chase down that buzz, they feel they need to risk and win more and more money, which can result in bad gambling habits.

There is no problem with enjoying gambling, but it’s essential to know when to stop.

Setting limits on how much to spend before you reach a casino, or enforcing time limits on how you play, can protect you from developing a problem.

? Top Tips For Responsible Gambling

MYTH 5: There Are Hot And Cold Slot Machines

The idea with this myth is that once a machine starts paying out, you’re more likely to hit wins frequently. This is known as a ‘hot’ slot.

Likewise, slots can go through long periods of not paying out, and they’re known as ‘cold’ slots.

Remember RNGs? Well, they put an end to this myth.

Every spin is equal, and you have just as high as chance of a win on one spin as on another.

Sometimes, slot machines will provide several payouts in quick succession. Other times, slots will go on for long periods without paying out.

It’s 100% random – don’t believe anyone who tells you otherwise.

? Top 10 Biggest Slot Machine Wins Of All Time

MYTH 6: You’re Due A Win If You Haven’t Had One In A While

Many gamblers believe that if you stick with the same game, eventually, you’ll get a big payout because you’ll be “due” a win.

This is sometimes called the Gambler’s Fallacy.

For example, if a roulette wheel hasn’t hit any wins on the previous 10 spins, a player might believe that on its 11^th spin that a win will occur because it’s time.  

However, this is a myth because each spin should be considered independent – its previous results have zero impact on the future.

Or if a slot has just paid out a big jackpot, players might avoid that machine as they believe it won’t pay out again soon – when really it could pay out an hour later!

It’s important to remember that past events do not have any impact on the present or future.

MYTH 7: Dealers Adjust Games If You’re Winning Too Much

Some gamblers have a lot of suspicions in casinos, and one of the most popular is that dealers will adjust games if you are winning too much.

Again, remember that casino games are designed to give the house the edge.

Dealers don’t need to rig games because they know that eventually the casino will make a profit across all players.

In addition, land-based casinos are regulated by independent bodies which are looking to protect player safety. Along with testing the RNGs of slot machines, regulators will also review the processes that dealers use.

If you don’t want to trust casino regulators, think about it another way.

It would probably cost the casinos far too much money to have to train dealers to rig games without people noticing. It takes years to perfect sleight of hand or other moves.

This training would cost the casino a lot more than just letting the occasional player hit big wins. And if no one ever won big at the casino, they’d soon get a reputation and be out of business.

MYTH 8: Casino Games Are Pure Luck

This myth is kind of true.

There are some games that are based on luck, like slots or roulette, however, there are a number of casino games that require skill and strategy to win, like poker or blackjack.

To use an example we’ve already talked about, if you know how to card count, you’ve theoretically got a better chance of winning in blackjack than someone who doesn’t.

Of course, luck still plays a huge part in the game, but there are ways you can give yourself marginal edges.

MYTH 9: You’re More Likely To Win Slots In A Busy Casino

Many gamblers believe if you visit a busier casino, you’re more likely to win when playing slot machines because more money is being pumped into them.

This is categorically untrue, as the winnings spins on slots are determined by RNGs.

No matter if you’re the only one on the casino floor or you’re struggling to find an available slot machine, the chances of winning are the same.

However, there are benefits to playing in busy casinos, especially if you’re a fan of progressive jackpot games.

Progressive jackpots increase as more players stake on that game. If there are more players in a casino, that prize total will rise faster, so you can hit a bigger jackpot if you land the right spin.

Likewise, land-based casinos often run tournaments on slots for players to enjoy. Busier casinos will have larger prize pools for these competitions. 

MYTH 10: Online Casinos Don’t Pay Out

Many people believe that online casinos are scam sites that won’t pay out. If a casino is licensed and regulated, then you will get your winnings (providing you follow the wagering requirements).

One of the reasons that the myth that online casinos don’t pay out is so popular is that many players claim welcome bonuses without understanding what they are.

However, these promotions have terms and conditions to prevent bonus abuse, like wagering requirements, which tell you how many times you need to use your bonuses before withdrawing.

You won’t be able to cash out if you make a transaction request without completing your wagering requirements. Many players don’t understand this and see it as the casino site scamming them.

So let’s make it as simple as possible. If you are using an online casino licensed by a respected regulatory body, accepting players from where you are, you will receive your payouts.

Sure, there are scam online casinos out there, but if you use a regulated platform, your payouts should be safe.

Alongside six NBA championship rings, he has six NBA Finals MVP awards, and has also appeared in 14 NBA All-Star games. 

Ultimately, Jordan won so many NBA MVP awards (five in total) that they renamed the MVP award the ‘Michael Jordan Trophy’ in honor of the eternal Bulls legend. President Obama even awarded Jordan the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016. 

Even while accomplishing all that, he still found time to revolutionize sneakers with his Air Jordan deal with Nike.  

He’s also known for his gambling exploits, a cause of much controversy. Keen-eyed fans caught him gambling in Atlantic City the night before Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals in 1993. 

In October 1993, he ‘retired’ for two years to play baseball, and rumors spread like wildfire, including that his retirement was, in fact, a gambling suspension. There are also rumors that his father was murdered over a gambling debt that same year. 

As MJ turns 60 on February 17, let’s look through Michael Jordan’s relationship with gambling.

Michael Jordan’s Early Years

Gambling seems to have always been a part of Michael Jordan’s life, with evidence from biographies (including Roland Lazenby’s Michael Jordan: The Life) that he was gambling as early as high school.

In college, there is also evidence that he was wagering. 

For example, a $5 check written by MJ in 1982 to a fellow student for losing a pool game shows us that betting was a feature of his life.

There are stories of him betting during practice with his teammates and coaching staff – but in small amounts that weren’t likely to break the bank.

Professional Career

By the time he joined the NBA, he wasn’t betting small amounts. He was known to play with the high rollers in the Bulls camp and frequently played cards with beat writers while on road trips. 

He even had a rolling bet with staff at the Chicago Stadium: He would bet on the Jumbotron cartoon races.

He wasn’t afraid of a little bet-rigging either, as he would always receive the outcome of the Jumbotron races from event staff before gameday.

Another story of him using questionable methods to win a bet occurred when the Bulls were heading to Portland. After disembarking, Chicago players waited for their luggage, and MJ bet $100 on his bag coming out first. 

Several teammates took the bet, and he laughed as his bag rolled out first. He collected the money but hadn’t told his teammates that he’d bribed the baggage handler to help him out.

Michael Jordan gambling was a common sight in the Chicago Bulls clubhouse, and he was a frequent bettor on his teammate’s high rollers table. His bets were a pivotal part of some of his most iconic moments. 

An example is his famous shrug after scoring his sixth three-pointer of the first quarter in the 1992 NBA Finals Game 1. Fans thought that it was a simple flex at his extraordinary ability.

Nope. He was shrugging at Magic Johnson in the crowd because Magic had beaten him at cards the night before.

He was also willing to take his habit anywhere he could find a game to play. In 1992, he was selected as part of the “Dream Team” preparing for the 1992 Summer Olympics. 

The team went to Monaco, home of the Monte Carlo Casino, amounting to a paradise for Michael Jordan.

He built a rolling late-night card game with major basketball stars like Magic Johnson, Charles Barkley, and Patrick Ewing.

Gambling Controversies

MJ was embroiled in controversy soon after his return from Olympic duty.

He was forced to testify in February 1993 over a $57,000 check to James “Slim” Boulder, a gambler and alleged drug dealer. The courts sentenced Boulder to nine years in prison over money laundering. 

Despite trying to argue that the check was for a business loan, he admitted that it was gambling debt accrued from games on the golf course when under oath.

Another golfing partner claimed he owed him $1.3 million but later settled for $300,000.

After these controversies, his biggest scandal would fall when basketball fans spotted him in Atlantic City during the 1993 NBA Finals.

The combination of this, his testimony in February, and the allegation that he owed $1.3 million in golf gambling debts made the scandal much greater. 

It affected him on the court as well – the Bulls lost the game the following night, and his 3-for-18 shooting was uncharacteristically cold in Game 3.

The NBA decided to investigate the matter.

Father’s Murder

The tragic death of his father just a few weeks later, in July 1993, spurred rumors of the connection between Michael Jordan’s gambling losses and his dad’s death. 

In the Orange County Register, Mark Whicker said, “For now, we just know that there is evidence of the son’s gambling problem, and there is suspicion of a son’s paying problem, the father of that son has been murdered. Coincidence, anyone?” 

It is important to note that many people debunked this myth, and the murder was a random attack.

His first retirement, in October, added more fuel to the fire. When asked whether he would ever return, MJ said he might “if the Bulls would have me, [and] if David Stern [NBA Commissioner] lets me back in the league.”

This choice of words was suspicious, to say the least.

Speculation began to emerge that Michael Jordan’s gambling problem was the real reason he was suspended, not due to the loss of his love for the game, as he had implied.

Despite this, many reasons exist to take what MJ said at face value.

He was emotionally drained after the death of his father, the concept of the NBA secretly suspending its most valuable player and brand is ridiculous, and the idea that the NBA would want Jordan to step away from the game is highly questionable.

Retirement wasn’t the only option for a player with a gambling problem leading to a suspension.

Two reasons stand above the rest when trying to debunk the “secret suspension” myth.

Firstly, David Stern flatly denied that the NBA had anything to do with MJ’s decision. 

“As far as the NBA is concerned,” Stern insisted, “Michael Jordan did nothing wrong, and I resent any implications to the contrary.” The league closed its investigation into Jordan two days after he announced he was retiring.

Secondly, the NBA Board of Governors voted unanimously to approve his candidacy as principal owner of the Charlotte Bobcats in 2010.

Before approval, new owners are subject to in-depth vetting, including their financial, personal, and business dealings. 

Any worries about his gambling would have seen his prospective ownership quashed by fellow NBA owners.

Instead, he was approved unanimously.

Gambling And Professional Sports

For some context on how his gambling was perceived at the time, it’s also worthwhile thinking about the status of gambling when Jordan’s stories broke.

Most people viewed gambling as a nefarious activity linked to the underworld. 

The Rose Scandal, where Cincinnati Reds manager Pete Rose had bet on thousands of MLB games while coaching, rocked Major League Baseball. The MLB banned him for life in 1989.

Similar scandals rocked the NFL and College Basketball during the 1980s.

The major leagues subsequently lobbied lawmakers to pass the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), which made sports betting illegal in 46 states.

Sports betting remained a touchy subject for all those involved in the major leagues until the Supreme Court ruled that PASPA was unconstitutional in May 2018. 

In 2007, 14 years after Jordan’s first retirement, the Donaghy scandal showed that points shaving and manipulation from the influence of betting were a severe concern.

The NBA beefed up its protections against suspicious betting and points patterns, and at the same time, it began to embrace sports betting.

In the early 2010s, new NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver, wrote an op-ed for the New York Times in which he argued an end to the federal ban on sports betting as long as operators met safeguards. 

In 2018, the US Supreme Court overruled PASPA, and by 2022, 36 states had legalized sports betting in some way.

Jordan’s exploits now would not only be wholly legal but wouldn’t raise any eyebrows. For most Americans, sports betting is a part of the experience of being a sports fan.

Post-Retirement

This is why it is interesting that Michael Jordan is now an NBA owner. Since he’s been an owner, the ties between sports betting and the NBA have grown.

The league has signed multi-year partnerships with several sportsbooks, teams now have retail facilities inside arenas, and the stigma of betting has lifted.

In 2020, Jordan became an investor in DraftKings. 

Ultimately, Michael Jordan’s gambling has less to do with an addiction to betting and more with an addiction to winning. 

A great example of this is his bet with Chris Paul at one of his summer camps for kids. When Jordan was visiting, “CP3” bet with him that if he missed three shots, he would have to pay for new Air Jordans for all the camp attendees.

He didn’t miss a single shot. Jordan isn’t bothered about the situation – he just loves to win.?

Lead image: mccarmona23/Flickr

Far from the complex philanthropy of Bumpy Johnson and the staunch activism of Stephanie St. Clair, Dutch Schultz was a stone-cold villain of the 20th century.

Schultz was determined to run New York’s most profitable numbers racket and destroyed anyone and everyone who got in the way of his rise to the top.

Known to pull the trigger without a moment’s hesitation, he instigated gang warfare faster than you could roll a pair of dice.

So, how exactly did this second-generation German immigrant ascend from the Bronx slums to become one of New York’s most infamous mobsters? Read on to find out.

Criminal Beginnings

Like most mobsters in the 1900s, Schultz’s upbringing was far from glamorous.

Arthur Flegenheimer was born on August 6, 1902, the son of two German Jewish immigrants, and grew up in poverty in the Bronx.

His father, a saloon keeper, abandoned the family when Arthur was 14 years old. Forced to assume the role of the breadwinner, Arthur dropped out of school and picked up a few odd – but legal – jobs around the Bronx.

His income wasn’t enough to provide for both him and his mother, so he had to start getting creative. He joined a local gang and began to rob craps games and burgle houses to earn a living.

At age 17, Arthur was caught red-handed. He was sentenced to 17 months in prison, his first – and only – time behind bars.

He was released from prison in December 1920, and it was around then that he started going by the name “Dutch Schultz.”

Some say he was given the name after another local (and equally violent) thug of the same name.

Others claim Arthur himself instigated this rebranding after the name of the company he was working for – Schultz Trucking.

Either way, one thing was clear: Arthur Flegenheimer was out, and Dutch Schultz was in.

Profiting From Prohibition

Prohibition (otherwise known as the Volstead Act) was enacted in 1919 to reduce the crime rate in America. In reality, it was the catalyst for a massive wave of organized crime.

Not one to miss out on a money-making opportunity, Schultz decided to cash in on Prohibition.

While still working at Schultz Trucking, he began “bootlegging” – transporting liquor and beer across the border from Canada.

Schultz spent years working as a bootlegger, not just transporting but making his own beer.

He also picked up work in underground speakeasies, where he lived up to his namesake’s reputation for violence and brutality.

It was this violent streak that caught the attention of Joey Noe, owner of a Bronx speakeasy called the Hub Social Club.

Noe initially hired Schultz as security but ended up making him a partner of the club.

Together, the duo opened dozens of illegal speakeasies and breweries all across Manhattan, including in Yorkville, Washington Heights, and Harlem.

Their bootlegging business was thriving, especially after the pair began using intimidation as a sales tactic and forcing rival club owners to buy their beer.

While this massively increased both Noe’s and Schultz’s bankrolls, it also attracted the unwanted attention of other prominent mobsters.

Jack “Legs” Diamond was one such mobster. By moving their headquarters from the Bronx to Manhattan, Legs believed the pair were encroaching on his turf.

Diamond began hijacking Schultz’s liquor shipments, and soon an all-out war between Schultz and the Irish mobster began.

In 1928, an unknown gunman shot Noe in the street. Though he survived the attack, Noe died from his wounds a month later.

Schultz was devastated by the death of his partner in crime and vowed to take revenge.

Confident that Legs was responsible, Schultz ordered his assassination. In October 1929, Legs and his mistress were gunned down at the Hotel Monticello.

Despite sustaining five gunshot wounds, Legs lived to tell the tale. In fact, this was only one of several assassination attempts he would survive during his lifetime.

Certifiably spooked, Legs fled to Albany, where he would migrate most of his operations. Someone eventually found Legs’s Achilles heel, and he was murdered in December 1931.

Though nobody came forward to claim the murder, Schultz reportedly commented that Legs was “just another punk caught with his hands in my pockets.”

Life As A Racketeer

Legs’s departure gave Schultz almost complete domination of the New York speakeasy scene. By this point, the “Beer Baron of the Bronx” had become one of the biggest gangsters in the state.

However, the end of Prohibition meant Schultz had to find new ways to supplement his income.

His solution? The Harlem numbers racket.

Otherwise known as the “numbers game,” “policy game,” or “Italian lottery,” the numbers racket was an illegal lottery played in working-class African American neighborhoods.

Gambling was a lucrative business, particularly in Harlem. Gangsters like Stephanie St. Clair (known affectionately as the “Numbers Queen”) already had a stronghold over Harlem’s underground gambling scene.

Schultz had already proved he was not afraid of stepping on other mobsters’ toes and started using brute force to overthrow Harlem’s pre-existing rackets.

Illegal bookmakers were known as ‘policy bankers,’ and Schultz gradually became one of the most formidable policy bankers in Harlem.

Since it was played in African-American neighborhoods, New York’s rackets were predominantly Black-owned. So when Schultz started his violent tirade, policy bankers like Stephanie St. Clair saw it as a racially-motivated attack.

He gave his competitors three grim choices: Relinquish their business to him, continue to run it and hand over a share of the profits, or face the brutal consequences of choosing neither option.

When Schultz had used violence to force rival club owners into buying his beer, he had been met with little resistance. However, Stephanie St. Clair was unlike any gangster he had faced.

Instead of backing down, St. Clair fought fire with fire and launched counterattacks against Schultz’s own rackets and storefronts.

Tousling With The Taxman

During this time, Schultz was also dealing with opposition from the law. He was charged with tax evasion in 1933, and when the trial moved to a small town upstate, Schultz moved with it.

He hired a public relations team to smooth over his gangster image and donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to charity in an attempt to win over the public.

Though his scheme worked, it left a considerable dent in his bankroll.

By the time he returned to Harlem, he was in a desperate plight to gain total control of the gambling scene.

But there were two significant obstacles in his way: Stephanie St. Clair and special prosecutor Thomas Dewey (below).

Dewey had been hired by the mayor of New York, Fiorello La Guardia, to investigate Schultz and bring him down for good.

Meanwhile, the Numbers Queen was still refusing to back down from Schultz’s threats.

Taking Drastic Measures

Nothing could make St. Clair hand over her numbers empire, so Schultz eventually ordered a hit on her life and forced her into hiding.

Wanting to do the same to Dewey, Schultz scheduled a meeting with the head of the mafia’s Five Families, Charles “Lucky” Luciano (below).

Schultz sought permission to assassinate Dewey. Fearing the attention that such a public act of aggression would bring to the underground gambling scene, Lucky prohibited it.

But Schultz – desperate and paranoid – decided to go ahead with his plans anyway.

Dutch Schultz was a powerful man, but if there’s one thing The Godfather has taught us, it’s that you don’t get on the wrong side of the mafia.

Assassination

While Schultz continued with his scheme to assassinate Dewey, Lucky had come up with his own plan.

On October 23, 1935, Dutch Schultz, his accountant, and two of his bodyguards were dining at the Palace Chophouse in Newark. While Schultz was in the bathroom, two gunmen from the infamous hit squad “Murder, Inc.” slipped past security.

The men opened fire on Schultz and his posse and managed to hit them all.

However, Schultz was far from dead and lived almost 30 hours after being shot. He eventually succumbed to his wounds and died in his hospital bed.

What’s The Deal With Schultz’s Treasure?

Before he died, Schultz made several references to a secret stash of treasure.

Rather than naming his killer, he rambled on to the police about his fortune, alluding to stacks of hidden cash that were buried in the woods.

Delirious from his injuries, his messages were random and cryptic.

However, rumors about the existence and whereabouts of this so-called treasure are still rife today, with dozens of optimistic conspiracists journeying to the Catskills to uncover it.

Though there has been no actual evidence to support the theory, the Times Union released an article that claimed its value – if it actually exists – could be close to $100 million.

Summary

Regardless of his abhorrent behavior, Dutch Schultz’s journey from the Bronx slums to infamous multi-millionaire is nothing short of impressive.

Even from his early days as a Prohibition bootlegger, Schultz’s severe and unsentimental approach to his work allowed him to climb the lawless ladder.

It was this behavior that earned him the admiration of his partner-in-crime, Joey Noe, a collaboration that led to him becoming one of the most influential figures in the Bronx.

It wasn’t long before the “Beer Baron of the Bronx” branched out into the gambling business. In a merciless climb to the top, Schultz eliminated his enemies one by one, either through forced compliance or brutal (and often fatal) beatings.

His legacy as one of New York’s most infamous mobsters was solidified by the way he ran his numbers racket. With hundreds of gunmen at his beck and call, Schultz wasn’t afraid to engage in gang warfare to protect his portfolio of gambling businesses.

However, it was his desperation to become the lynchpin of Harlem’s numbers rackets that ultimately led to his demise.

His attempts to take down his most high-profile enemies – ordering a hit on Stephanie St. Clair and admitting plans to assassinate Thomas Dewey – ultimately caused his own murder.

By the year of his death, he had been named by the director of the FBI as “Public Enemy Number One.”

Despite an account-draining attempt to reconcile his public image, Schultz will forever be remembered as one of the most dangerous and violent gangsters of the era.

Lead image: Twitter/littlesteven_ug

St. Clair spent her criminal career rubbing elbows with New York’s famous figures, from leading civil rights activists to the fearsome heads of the mafia’s Five Families.

With the “Godfather of Harlem,” Bumpy Johnson, as her hired security, Stephanie St. Clair was an imposing presence on the New York underground gambling scene.

Yet, her devotion to uplifting Black Harlemites through activism and education earned the respect and admiration of her peers.

She was known around Harlem for many things, her frequent (and often entertaining) newspaper ads being one of them.

However, it was her steadfast resolve in standing up to corrupt police officers and rival racketeers like Dutch Schultz that ultimately remains St. Clair’s biggest legacy.

Early Life

Stephanie St. Clair spent most of her adult life in the public eye, taking out full newspaper ads to inspire her peers or address her foes. However, her early life is shrouded in mystery, which is partly St. Clair’s own doing.

There are several versions of her childhood, but most accounts state that she was born on December 24, 1897, in the French archipelago Guadeloupe.

In this version of her origin story, her French Caribbean background meant she could read in both French and English, making her far more educated than most white Americans.

Another version of her mythology (the spread of which St. Clair herself contributed to) is that she was actually born in France and taught herself English on the voyage to the US.

Whichever version is true, both accounts recognize that she traveled by steamer to the US (though whether this occurred in 1911 or 1921 is still up for debate).

The Rise Of The Queen Of Harlem                      

St. Clair arrived in New York in the midst of the Great Migration, where more than six million African Americans moved North to escape the persecution of the Jim Crow South.

She quickly settled in the African-American neighborhood of Harlem and began to sow the seeds of her criminal career by joining (and eventually leading) the Forty Thieves.

Initially formed in the 1820s, the Forty Thieves was one of New York’s oldest criminal gangs, famous for running theft and extortion rackets.

It’s unclear exactly how she came up with the money, but St. Clair soon decided to branch out from the Thieves and invested $10,000 to develop her own numbers racket.

Her new status as a “policy banker” would quickly attract the unwanted attention of her rival male racketeers, so she hired the services of a then little-known bodyguard, Ellsworth Raymond “Bumpy” Johnson.

Fans of the Epix series The Godfather of Harlem will be well aware of his name, but what is the significance of Johnson’s association with the Queen of Harlem?

Well, thanks to the employment of Stephanie St. Clair, “Bumpy” Johnson went on to dominate Harlem’s gambling scene and become one of the most philanthropic mobsters of the 20th century.

How Did The ‘Numbers Racket’ Work, And How Was St. Clair Involved?

Gambling was officially made illegal in New York in 1908. However, a constitutional ban on lotteries was enacted decades before, in the mid-1830s.

As a result, underground lotteries were rife, particularly in poor African-American neighborhoods like Harlem.

The “numbers racket” (also known as the “numbers game” or “Mafia lottery”) worked in a similar way to the Hispanic lottery “bolita,” however it was geared specifically toward the African-American community.

Simply put, the numbers racket was a small-scale lottery run on a neighborhood-by-neighborhood basis.

While some played for fun, many working-class Harlemites relied on the numbers racket to cover the cost of bills and clothes.

In the eyes of the law, St. Clair’s numbers racket was an illegal crime ring that preyed on Harlem’s poorest citizens. In actual fact, it had several benefits for the community.

St. Clair was able to employ dozens of Black men and women as ‘numbers runners’ and subsidize the low incomes they received as a result of their exclusion from traditionally ‘white’ jobs.

In addition, the profits from her racket allowed St. Clair to support legitimate black businesses and publish newspaper ads that helped educate Black Harlemites on their legal and voting rights.

However, Harlem’s police department didn’t see it this way.

Despite having several officers in her employment, St. Clair was arrested in December 1929 for the possession of policy slips.

On January 1, 1930 – just two days after her arrest – she announced in the Amsterdam News, “I have been arrested and framed by three of the bravest and noblest cowards who wear civilian clothes.”

In March 1930, she was sentenced to eight months in a work camp. Immediately upon her release in December, St. Clair sought revenge.

As part of an investigation into police corruption, St. Clair testified against the cops on her bankroll and successfully had over a dozen officers suspended from the force.

Crumbling Control

By the 1930s, Queenie and Bumpy had built an empire and dominated the Harlem gambling scene with their thriving numbers racket.

There had always been rival racketeers trying to muscle in on the operation. However, the repeal of Prohibition in 1933 meant that mobsters who made their money selling liquor (known as “bootlegging”) were looking for ways to replenish their profits.

Arthur “Dutch Schultz” Flegenheimer was, without a doubt, the biggest threat to both St. Clair and the entire gambling industry in Harlem.

He targeted competitors with extreme violence, forcing them to hand over a share of their revenue or relinquish their operation to him entirely.

Those who refused to submit would face violent beatings or even murder.

Schultz’s unyielding desire for total control of the numbers racket resulted in over 40 deaths, and by 1935, the FBI had branded him “Public Enemy Number One.”

As a hugely successful Black racketeer – and a woman at that – St. Clair was at the top of his target list.

Taking On Public Enemy Number One

The Numbers Queen wasn’t about to go down without a fight and did everything in her power to stop Schultz and his gang from infiltrating her racket.

She made a point of highlighting how Schultz’s actions were heavily racially motivated and encouraged her peers to stop engaging with businesses (both legal and illegal) that weren’t black-owned.

St. Clair spread this message every way she could, from full-page newspaper campaigns encouraging Harlemites to “Buy Black” to violently destroying storefronts associated with white racketeers.

In her own words, taking on Schultz and his mob of thugs cost St. Clair “820 days in jail plus three-quarters of a million dollars.”

Of course, these actions caught the attention of the man himself, and in 1935 Schultz ordered a hit on St. Clair.

Fearing for her life, the Numbers Queen was forced into hiding and handed her business over to her bodyguard-in-chief, Bumpy Johnson.

Fortunately, her days in exile were numbered.

Other prominent racketeers – namely the Italian mafia boss and “chairman” of New York’s Five Families, Charlie “Lucky” Luciano – decided to put an end to Schultz’s reign of terror.

When Schultz ordered an unauthorized hit on District Attorney Thomas Dewey, Luciano turned the tables and ordered the hit squad “Murder, Inc.” to assassinate Schultz.

The hit took place on October 23, 1935, while Dutch and his associates were dining at the Palace Chop House.

Dutch lived for almost an entire day after being shot – long enough for St. Clair to retreat from hiding and send him a telegraph that read, “As ye sow, so shall ye reap.”

Post-Racket Life

After handing over her numbers empire to Johnson, St. Clair took a step back from the gambling scene. Yet, her run-ins with the law only seemed to increase.

She had always been a staunch civil rights activist, and in 1936 she married fellow activist and “soapbox speaker” Sufi Abdul Hamid.

However, their relationship was doomed from the start.

Dubbed the “Black Hitler,” Hamid was an anti-Semite and an Islamic-Buddhist cult leader whose skewed morality conflicted with other prominent activists of the era.

He ended up spending a huge chunk of St. Clair’s wealth and cheating on her with a young fortune teller.

Unsurprisingly, the Numbers Queen didn’t take kindly to his infidelities, and in 1938 she shot Hamid during a fight.

Though she didn’t kill him, St. Clair was sentenced to up to 10 years at the New York State Prison for Women.

Little is known about Stephanie St. Clair’s life after her release from prison.

She stopped taking out ads in the paper, only resurfacing in print in a 1960 New York Post article. Mayme Hatcher, the wife of Bumpy Johnson, claimed she retired to a mansion in Long Island.

Both accounts specify that she had transgressed from an illegal numbers racketeer to a legitimate businesswoman.

How Did St. Clair Die?

Stephanie St. Clair died in New York the same way she arrived – shrouded in mystery.

Despite a life spent dominating the underground gambling scene and becoming an advocate for civil rights, no report was made of her death in any of the local newspapers.

Far from the dramatic and violent deaths of her male mobster contemporaries, St. Clair passed away peacefully in 1969 in Central Islip, New York.

The Legacy Of Stephanie St. Clair

Almost her entire criminal career was spent living in 409 Edgecombe Avenue, an apartment complex that housed Harlem’s Black elite.

From civil rights activists like W.E.B. Du Bois to painters like Aaron Douglas and playwrights like Katherine Butler Jones, her neighbors were at the forefront of the fight for civil rights.

Rather than hide from the law, Stephanie St. Clair chose to step into the spotlight and use her wealth to uplift her fellow Harlemites.

With no fear of the dangerous repercussions her stoicism could have, St. Clair battled corruption from men both above and below the law – and looked fabulous while doing so.

Her refusal to back down to “Public Enemy Number One” Dutch Schultz not only protected her own racket from collapsing but also those of other Black racketeers who were subject to his violent quest for domination.

While keeping her racket afloat inflated her own wealth, it also provided countless jobs for Black men and women and allowed her to invest in legitimate Black-run businesses.

Meanwhile, she took on the NYPD head-to-head and won. Alongside testifying against corrupt police officers, her regular ads in the Amsterdam News helped to educate her peers on their legal and voting rights.

Instead of indulging in destructive behavior like her male mobster counterparts, St. Clair spent her life trying to uplift her fellow Harlemites and using violence only as a means to an end.

Madam Queen In The Media

Stephanie St. Clair has appeared as a side character in The Cotton Club (1984) and Hoodlum (1997).

She was also the focus of a 2014 episode of Celebrity Crime Files. As of yet, no programs or movies focus entirely on her story.

However, that is soon set to change. Two new projects are in the works that will focus on the life and times of Stephanie St. Clair.

One is a series called Queenie, a BET Studios production set to begin filming soon.

The other is from HBO, who has announced a film about St. Clair adapted from a book by Shirley Stewart, The World of Stephanie St. Clair.

Well, you’re in the right place.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about exchange betting, including how it gives bettors more control over their wagers and how it differs from standard betting, as well as the pros and cons.

What Is Exchange Betting?

Exchange betting is when you bet against other gamblers, instead of the sportsbook, on a betting exchange (more on that next).

It’s a popular and unique form of betting that’s different to traditional wagering.

The odds are set by the bettors and are often more generous than what you’d find offered by the bookies.

How A Betting Exchange Works

A betting exchange is an online platform where the exchange betting takes place.

As mentioned, on a betting exchange site, punters don’t bet against a traditional bookmaker but instead take on each other, setting their own odds.

There are two types of bettors in a betting exchange: the ‘back’ bettor and the ‘lay’ bettor.

Back Betting

‘Back’ betting is very similar to gambling on a regular betting site, as you must bet on something specific to happen.

For example, a football (soccer) team winning a match or a horse winning a race.

However, unlike with standard betting sites, the back bettor can set the odds.

The betting exchange site will then find a lay bettor willing to bet against what the back bettor has set.

Whoever wins the wager will win money from the opposing player, minus a cut for the betting exchange. This commission varies between betting exchange sites.

An example:

Lay Betting

A ‘lay’ bettor does the opposite of the back bettor, playing the role that a sportsbook usually plays, betting that whatever the back bettor has wagered on will not happen.

So if a back bettor bets on a sports team to win, the lay bettor wagers on that team to draw or lose.

Lay bettors can also create their own odds. Usually, betting exchanges will have two tabs, one for payout and one for liability.

While you decide your stake, the betting exchange determines your liability. This is the amount you need to pay out if your wager loses.

Also, this will be much larger than the amount you stake.

The payout tells you how much you win if the bet is successful. The payout will always be the stake multiplied by the odds.

An example:

Betting Exchanges vs Bookmakers

Betting exchanges are quite different from standard bookmakers, but both have a lot to offer bettors. Check out some of the key differences below:

Bookmaker

• Betting Margin: Bookmakers make money by setting odds so players back both sides of an event. Betting sites only take the money you lose while betting.
• Balanced Odds: Bookmakers provide balanced odds to ensure bettors back both sides of an event.
• Bettor vs the House: Bettors bet against the bookmaker.
• Offers: Bookmakers often provide bonuses like free bets and boosted odds to keep wagering exciting.
• Cash-Out: Most bookmakers offer a cash-out option, letting you close bets early to take a smaller profit or cut a loss.

Betting Exchange

• Commission: When you win on a betting exchange, the site will take a commission of your profits. Commission tends to range from 2-8%.
• Best Odds: With a betting exchange, you set the odds. You can find a larger opportunity for profit than taking odds from bookmakers.
• Back & Lay Betting: Bettors bet against one another, one specifically choosing an outcome and someone going against that.
• No Offers: Promotions are rare because a betting exchange is an intermediary.
• No Cash-Out: Because betting exchanges act as an intermediary, there are no cash-outs for users, and punters must keep their bet to the very end.

Pros And Cons Of Using Betting Exchanges

While the unique nature of betting exchanges offers many advantages, you should also keep in mind there are some drawbacks.

Pros

  Best on Market Odds: Because you’re betting against other punters, the betting exchange is not at risk of losing money. This means you’ll find much higher odds.

  Lay Bets: Wagerers can bet on a result simply not happening rather than betting on something specific.

Cons

 Matching Bets: Finding a match for your bet can be challenging on a betting exchange, especially if you’re betting on a niche sport, such as esports or darts.

 No Offers: Betting exchanges don’t often provide bonuses for loyal players.

Why Aren’t There Any Betting Exchanges In The US?

Betting exchanges are legal in the US, but none have gone live yet due to the complications from the Federal Wire Act of 1961.

The Act prevents gambling information from being exchanged across state borders.

Considering how new the concept of betting is in the US, introducing exchange betting to just one state was seen as challenging.

However, two betting exchanges are planning to launch in New Jersey in 2022, Prophet Exchange and SportTrade.

More than 30 states have since legalized online sports betting, each with its own set of unique sports betting laws. Make sure to check your state’s regulations if you’re interested in learning how to bet.

You’ll find dozens of different bet types at US sportsbooks, many of which may confuse beginners.

So, if you don’t know your moneylines from your point spreads, this guide is for you. We’ll cover the most popular bet types in the US.

1. Moneylines

A moneyline bet is the simplest bet to learn.

You predict which team (or athlete in individual sports like tennis) will win a game. If you’re correct, you’ll make a profit. However, you’ll lose your money if you’re wrong.

With American odds, there is an underdog and a favorite. The favorites are represented by a triple-digit number and a (-) symbol, while the underdogs are represented with a (+) plus sign.

The number next to the favorite (-) symbol tells you how much you need to wager to win $100. With underdogs, the number next to the (+) symbol tells you how much you win if you bet $100.

For example, before the 2022 Super Bowl, the Cincinnati Bengals were underdogs with odds of +175. The LA Rams were the favorites with odds of -200.

If you placed $100 on the Bengals and the Bengals won, you would’ve made a profit of $175.

Meanwhile, you would’ve needed to put $200 on the Rams to make a profit of $100.

2. Point Spread

Point spread betting asks you to predict whether a team will win by or lose within a certain margin of points.

These bets will have American odds but also another number with a (+) or (-) symbol. With the (-), this is the number of points a team must win by for you to win your wager.

The number next to the (+) symbol tells you how many points a team can lose by for your bet to succeed. The underdog can also win, and your wager will still come through.

Say the Golden State Warriors are listed at -9.5 and the Memphis Grizzlies are +9.5.

If you wager on the Grizzlies, you will only win if the Grizzlies win the game outright or lose by 10 points or less as they are the underdog.

Alternatively, a Warrior’s bettor must see the team win by more than 10 points.

The American odds next to the point spread bet tells you how much you can win. Yet, this figure doesn’t impact how many points a team needs.

Point spreads make games with a significant favorite more enjoyable, encouraging bettors to wager on both teams.

3. Parlays

A parlay (also known as an accumulator) is a combination of multiple wagers into one single bet. Each wager, or leg, must come through for you to win a parlay.

Parlays are much riskier than betting on each game individually, but you also get better odds. In addition, you can wager on more events with one stake.

For example, you could wager on the San Francisco 49ers to beat the Dallas Cowboys, the LA Rams to beat the Arizona Cardinals, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to beat the Philadelphia Eagles in a parlay bet.

You will need all three of your selections to win for your bet to return a profit. You will lose your bet if one of your selections fail to win.

You don’t just have to bet on match winners either, with some sportsbooks offering same-game parlays.

With a same game parlay, you could bet on the Bengals to win the Super Bowl against the LA Rams, with Joe Burrow throwing for more than 250 yards and Odell Beckham Jr. making four receptions.

4. Over/Under

With an over/under bet, the sportsbook sets a total (number set by oddsmakers) for a particular statistic. You then predict whether the result will be over or under that number.

A sportsbook could offer a total of 220 for a game between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors. You win if you choose the over and the teams score more than 220 points combined.

It doesn’t matter which team scores the points, as long as the final amount matches your prediction. You’ll also find over/under bets for markets like passing yards or 3-pointers.

5. Prop Bets

A prop bet is a wager that doesn’t determine the final score, instead predicting something that may or may not contribute to the result in a sporting event.

As an example, a prop bet could be placed on individual players to score touchdowns. Touchdowns contribute to the final score, but the players that score the points do not.

Prop bets in sport are often presented as an over/under, like a player scoring over/under four runs in an MLB game.

However, you also get ‘+’ prop bets, which are essentially just overs. For example, you could bet on an NFL player to register 90+ rushing yards.

You can also place prop bets on the individual statistics of players or the team as a whole.

Yet, it’s essential to remember that some states prohibit prop betting on college sports. Be sure to check your local regulations before betting.

6. Futures

While all wagers are placed on future events, future bets are specifically significant for events in the far future.

Futures include wagering on the World Series winner or which player will pick up the MVP award.

Odds on futures bets change the closer you get to an event, as more information about injuries and form is known.

Betting on futures at the start of the season rather than midway through is a top way to get the best odds.

Before his 30th birthday, Sagi founded Playtech, one of the world’s most successful casino software platforms.

More recently, Teddy Sagi made headlines when he announced his plan to sell Camden Market in London (of which he owns two-thirds).

But how did the Israeli-born iGaming mogul come to own London’s second most popular tourist attraction?

Early Life

Born in 1971 in Tel Aviv, Israel, Teddy Sagi was raised in the Lamed neighborhood in the northern part of the city.

The child of a travel agent and beautician, Sagi learned from a young age the importance of determination and hard work.

However, his career path would entail much more complication and controversy than booking vacations and selling makeup.

It’s safe to assume that Teddy had a relatively carefree childhood, given that we don’t know much about it.

As the age-old saying goes, “no news is good news” – that is, until the news of Sagi’s run-in with the law in 1996.

Aged 24, a charge was brought against him for grave deceit, bribery and insider trading.

Until then, Sagi had been making money through real estate deals and stock market investments.

After being found guilty of manipulating bond prices two years prior, he served a nine-month prison sentence.

Although his time in prison was a blot against his otherwise clean slate, Teddy’s trading experience allowed him to spot a gap in the market of internet-based companies.

Armed with a drive for success and extensive market research, Sagi decided to capitalize on the ever-growing phenomenon that was the internet.

In doing so, he laid the foundations for one of the world’s biggest and most profitable gambling software companies.

The Founding Of Playtech – Where It All Began

Sagi founded Playtech right before the turn of the century (and before he turned 30).

At the time, there wasn’t a lot of scope for online gaming. But Sagi saw an opportunity and ran with it.

In 1999, Playtech’s development hub was established in Tartu, Estonia, and its headquarters opened in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Hiring only the best and most accomplished mathematicians, developers, and engineers, Sagi was determined to create a platform that would outperform any of its competitors.

Rather than improving his software as revenue came in, Sagi aimed to release a premium and innovative platform right from the get-go.

After promoting the company from a modest booth at industry trade shows, Playtech launched its first casino platform in 2001.

From the offset, Sagi’s hard work and investment paid off.

Conscious of its innovative software and exclusive back-office features, operators across the industry wanted to get their hands on Playtech’s powerful platform.

Such high demand allowed Sagi to charge a premium for the service, something many of his competitors could not do.

With revenue pouring in from all sides, Playtech had the cash flow to begin investing in other technologies and expand its already impressive iGaming platform.

Playtech Pushing Boundaries

As the noughties rolled on, gambling sites gradually began establishing a firmer online presence.

Taking advantage of this rising trend, Playtech launched its bingo solution in 2003.

Though it was sparse at first – offering only a 75-ball variation – it was the steppingstone to Playtech’s milestone acquisition of the Virtue Fusion bingo platform seven years later.

Similarly, the early 2000s saw a spike in the popularity of online poker.

One particular catalyst came in the form of Chris Moneymaker, the 2003 winner of the World Series of Poker Main Event (and the owner of the most appropriate surname).

The full-time accountant and part-time amateur poker player made headlines after qualifying for the event via an online poker site.

The site in question was the (then) little-known poker provider, PokerStars.

Thrust into the spotlight and dominating the headlines, poker had suddenly become the ‘it’ game, and Sagi saw an opportunity to capitalize on it.

By pooling together hundreds of players in a central network, Teddy sought to revolutionize the game. Thus, in 2004, Playtech’s iPoker network was launched.

By the following year, the iPoker network had attracted thousands of loyal players.

Aiming to expand on this success and generate more capital for further business acquisitions, Playtech became a publicly-traded company on the London Stock Exchange in 2006.

Though this occurred on the AIM – the LSE’s secondary market – it opened with a valuation of around $768 million.

Strategic Business Moves

Though the company enjoyed exponential growth for the first few months of trading, the passing of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 (UIGEA) threw a spanner in the works.

As Playtech lost the US market overnight, which was the company’s biggest source of revenue, shares in the company fell by 40 percent in a single day, and many companies began to formulate an exit strategy.

However, Sagi saw an opportunity to turn catastrophe into cash.

Instead of fleeing the market, Playtech focused on acquisition. While many companies were looking to sell, Sagi was in the business to buy.

Subsequently, he added Virtue Fusion to his portfolio in 2010.

This acquisition of the popular white-label bingo provider allowed Playtech to expand its bingo platform tenfold, becoming one of the biggest bingo providers in the industry.

During this time, Playtech also formed several landmark partnerships that bolstered its position as one of the top software platforms.

In 2008, the company agreed to launch William Hill Online for a 29 percent stake in the business.

Five years later, Playtech sold this stake back to William Hill PLC for ￡424 million (approximately $511 million).

Sagi’s savvy decision to capitalize on the failing US market paid off.

In 2012, Playtech moved up the ladder from AIM to the LSE Main Market.

Since becoming a Premium Listing, Playtech’s list of clients has only continued to increase.

Its most notable clients include Unibet, bet365, Snaitech, Betfair, William Hill, and Totalizator Sportowy (the Polish national lottery).

Yet, Playtech’s acquisition mission was far from over. The company added multiple strings to its already crowded bow in the years that followed.

Not forgetting its roots as a top slot developer, Playtech signed a multi-year contract with Warner Bros. to create a line of DC-branded games based around the feature films Green Lantern (2011), Man of Steel (2013), Superman I (1978), and Superman II (1980).

Alongside developing its own top-of-the-range slot games, Playtech added several prominent software providers to its portfolio, including Eyecon, Quickspin, BGT, and Ash Gaming.

It also launched its first live casino studio in Romania in 2017, launching an exclusive Playtech live casino that rivaled its top competitor, Evolution Gaming.

Sayonara, Teddy Sagi

Sagi began offloading his Playtech shares in November 2016. He first sold 12 percent of his shares – around 38.7 million in total – for 1,060 cents each.

In March 2017, his personal investment company Brickington Trading Limited sold 13 million more.

A few months later, Brickington shed a further 32 million shares, securing around $400 million from the sale.

Finally, in 2018, Sagi sold the last of his remaining 4.8 percent stake in the business, officially leaving the company for good (and pocketing a respectable $87 million).

After almost two decades of exponential success, Sagi dispensed his last Playtech stock to turn his full attention to “real estate, co-working, service apartments, e-commerce and advanced technology, cyber-security, and innovation companies.”

Playtech In 2022

Today, Playtech continues to expand its reach across multiple markets.

The company took its first foray into the US market, launching in New Jersey with bet365 in 2020.

Another live casino studio was established the following year in Michigan.

The company also signed an exclusive deal with UK gambling giant Ladbrokes to provide a bespoke new live game show.

In March 2022, the company announced its partnership with Parx Interactive to relaunch its betPARX app in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

The iGaming and sports betting app will use Playtech’s Player Account Management (PAM) and Information Management Solutions (IMS), the latter of which will make its first appearance in the two states.

In the decades since its launch, Playtech has built an impressive omnichannel platform that caters to its licensees’ every need.

Alongside the provision of its exclusive games, Playtech offers live casino streaming, turn-key sports betting solutions (Playtech Sports), virtual sports, poker (via the iPoker network), bingo (using the Virtue Fusion platform), and physical games in retail casino locations.

Not content to stop at casino software, Playtech offers eMarketing solutions and a financial trading platform (B.O. Technologies).

The company also boasts Playtech ONE, a cross-product solution that promises to deliver a seamless player experience across any channel or device.

In 2021, the company was sold for $3.7 billion to Australian gambling machine manufacturer, Aristocrat Leisure.

Sagi’s Other Career Highlights

Since his departure from Playtech – and, more often than not, during his time at Playtech – Sagi cultivated monumental success through his various real estate and tech start-up investments.

Although he has several projects in the works, Sagi’s most successful business ventures are those he made public on the LSE: Market Tech, SafeCharge, and Kape.

Market Tech

Market Tech (which has since rebranded to LabTech London) is Teddy Sagi’s real estate portfolio.

It was through Market Tech that Sagi began his consolidation of Camden Market.

In March 2014, Teddy bought Camden Stables market for $557 million. The same year, he added Camden Lock and Buck Street Market to his portfolio.

In 2015, Sagi purchased Camden Wharf and the Interchange Building for $132 million, giving him majority ownership of Camden Market.

He has since revolutionized the way the market operates, launching many of its retailers online.

In June 2022, Teddy announced his intention to sell all LabTech-owned sections of Camden Market.

He originally floated the idea in 2019, but the pandemic put an abrupt end to the proceedings.

Three years later, the market mogul intends to release the properties for around $1.3 billion.

Alongside Camden Market, LabTech owns more than 20 acres of West End properties.

Its most spectacular asset, the grade-II listed Victoria House, sold in January for ￡430 million (approx. $518 million).

In March, LabTech announced its partnership with Babylon Park – an Israeli-based amusement park with 19 locations – to launch its flagship UK site.

Other branches of LabTech include RunTech (a property tech company that connects LAB community sites with the outside world) and SmartGreen (which aims to reduce buildings’ energy waste, equipment malfunction, and operational issues).

SafeCharge

SafeCharge is the brainchild of Sagi and co-founder David Avgi.

The payments technology launched in 2007, but according to Avgi, its roots were planted way back in 1999.

The company provides “payments solutions for several sales channels” and its success skyrocketed in 2007 when it began partnering with Barclays, PayPal, and American Express.

The company was eventually sold in 2017 to Canadian company Nuvei.

Though it was a sentimental departure, the $889 million buy-out deal ought to have softened the blow.

Kape

Headquartered in the Isle of Man, Unikmind Holdings is the private company through which Sagi operates his digital privacy company, Kape.

With over 6.5 million paying customers across almost a dozen countries, Kape is an impressive company in its own right.

However, in 2021, Sagi announced a deal to acquire Kape’s biggest rival – ExpressVPN – for just shy of $1 billion.

Teddy Sagi Group / Globe Invest Limited

Globe Invest Limited is the single-family office that runs Sagi’s strategic investments.

Through Globe Invest, Teddy acquired Layam, one of the oldest Duty-Free operators in the Middle East.

In March 2022, Sagi announced that Layam would take over the contract to provide duty-free products on Arkia flights.

Under the Teddy Sagi Group, Teddy acquired VisualDNA, the world’s leading provider of psychographic audience data.

Though he only assumed ownership of the company in May 2015, it was sold a year later to Nielson for an undisclosed sum.

Family Life

Just as the stories of his childhood are kept firmly under wraps, there is little known about Teddy Sagi’s family.

Other than a short-lived fling with Israeli supermodel Bar Refaeli (whose relationship ensued after a 6-month break from Leonardo DiCaprio), Teddy has maintained a relationship with 2006 Miss Israel, Yael Nizri.

The couple has lived together since 2010 in Israel’s most expensive home.

With little to no evidence of the house itself, all we know is that it is situated in the wealthy neighborhood of Herzliya Pituah.

Together, Teddy and Yael have five children. Teddy also has a daughter from a previous relationship.

In a rare interview with Globes, Sagi acknowledged that “it may seem from the outside that 100% of my time is involved with business, but the reality is different…I invest a lot of time in the family. We were just now on a two-week family vacation”.

He also noted that while the more tedious elements of parental responsibility fall on the children’s mother, Teddy is the “address for entertainment. Games, to go and eat pizza or to Disneyland, or to enjoy things in every way possible – that’s for Dad”.

Where Is Teddy Sagi Today?

In 2022, Teddy Sagi is placed at #471 on Forbes’ Billionaires list with a net worth of around $5.6 billion. He continues to expand his investment portfolio.

Making his grand return to fintech, Sagi founded his newest start-up Pay.com with Tom Vaknin and Assaf Cohen.

Launched in 2022, Pay.com is a payment solution that provides users with instant access to payment methods like Skrill, Klarna, Apple Pay, and PayPal.

According to Vaknin and Cohen, the company – which currently has 45 employees – is “actively seeking outstanding individuals that will fit well into the company’s unique and inventive DNA.”

Sagi has funded the company with $100 million in credit to secure acquisitions.

With Camden Market up for sale and multiple further projects in the works, Teddy Sagi has certainly got his hands full.

Lead image: Twitter/ajnewsclub

Taking home a salary of ￡421 million (approx. $508 million) in 2020 – the highest-ever recorded paycheck in the country, averaging around ￡1.2 ($1.5) million a day – Denise is Britain’s highest-paid boss.

However, unlike other figureheads in the online gambling scene, Coates pays her societal dues.

The gambling entrepreneur has topped the Sunday Times Tax List three years running and donated millions of pounds to charities annually.

From humble beginnings in a Stoke-on-Trent parking lot to a multi-billion-pound gambling empire and Stoke City Football Club ownership, bet365 has experienced exponential growth since it launched in 2001.

Today, the bookmaker has over 6 million customers in more than 200 countries.

But how exactly did Denise Coates turn her father’s modest sports betting portfolio into a billion-pound enterprise? It all boils down to her dedicated work ethic and forward-looking vision.

Early Life

Aside from a few luxuries here and there, Denise Coates prefers to live under the radar.

In an interview with the Guardian, Coates said: “The public side does not come naturally to me. I’m not saying I’m a shrinking violet – I’m not. I’ve been bossy all my life. It’s just that I very much enjoy actually running the business.”

Other than the fact that she was born on 26th September 1967, this admittance of an early personality trait is pretty much all we know about the billionaire tycoon’s childhood.

With so little information available about her early life, it’s safe to assume that her formative years were relatively uneventful (at least as far as Coates is willing to admit).

Instead, let’s focus on her relationship with her father, Peter Coates, and the early days of her career.

Like Father, Like Daughter

Peter Coates was the son of a miner and grew up in poverty. At the age of 14, Peter had to leave school and start an office job to support his family. As an adult, he was determined to create a better life from a young age.

Following an obligatory stint in the British army, Coates began working for a chain restaurant, where he climbed through the ranks. He eventually left to open his own catering firm, which focused on providing catering services to sporting events.

The success of his catering business allowed Coates to invest in a chain of betting shops which he named Provincial Racing.

Through these shops, he began to cultivate his success, and by 1989 he was a principal shareholder of his hometown’s football club, Stoke City. However, his bookmaker portfolio had nowhere near reached its full potential.

Around the same time, his eldest daughter Denise graduated from the University of Sheffield with a first-class degree in econometrics.

Denise took on a job at Provincial Racing, which she later dubbed “a small chain of pretty rubbish betting shops.” Nevertheless, she soon became an effective catalyst for its growth.

Under her direction the no-frills betting chain became increasingly profitable and so, thanks to her diligent efforts and work ethic, Denise was made Managing Director in 1995.

The Rise Of Bet365

The giant that is bet365 today would not exist if it weren’t for Denise’s visionary investment 22 years ago.

Coates realized the potential of the internet and believed that it would revolutionize the future of sports betting. She bought the domain bet365.com in January 2000 from an online seller for ￡20,000 (approx. $25,000).

After convincing her brother (who had been practicing as an attorney) to join her business venture, Denise met with London’s capitalist elite to secure investors.

Unable to convince a single one of them, she then turned to the Royal Bank of Scotland, who granted her a loan of around ￡14 ($17) million with the entire Provincial Racing chain as collateral.

Denise wasted no time and launched bet365.com in 2001.

For a long time, Coates worked around the clock from a Portakabin in the car park of one of the family’s betting shops. Though online betting was slowly gaining traction on the internet, Denise was the first to fully invest in its potential.

In doing so, she carved out the future for a billion-dollar empire with over 5,000 employees. 

Coates acknowledges the enormous risks that surrounded her decision to invest in online gambling, dubbing herself and her brother “the ultimate gamblers.” Luckily for Denise (and her father’s betting chain), her gamble paid off.

Eventually, bet365 became so successful that Provincial Racing was no longer a necessary asset for the Coates family, and it was sold to Coral Betting in 2015 for ￡40 ($50) million.

The success of bet365 also enabled Denise to fulfil her father’s football passions once more. Stoke City FC, of which Peter had been the majority shareholder from 1986 to 1998, was purchased by bet365 in 2006 for ￡1.7 ($2) million.

Though the team has not seen much improvement since then, it holds a lot of sentimental value for the Coates family, who recently cleared ￡160 million (approx. $197 million) of the club’s debt.

Britain’s Top-Billed Boss

Despite taking a pay cut of ￡170 ($209) million in 2021, Denise Coates is the highest-paid company executive in the UK, let alone the highest-paid of all British female executives.

Though she runs one of the most successful bookmakers in the world (in one of the most male-dominated industries imaginable), Denise never felt that her gender impeded her work or resulted in different treatment from other industry leaders.

Coates claimed that while there were a few meetings where she “had to put somebody right”, she also said, “I knew my business, so it wasn’t a problem.”

On the other hand, Denise acknowledges – without irritation – that people often assume her father runs the bet365 business.

She attributes these “false assumptions” to the fact that “the media decides, for whatever reason, that maybe it makes a better story if they say he does.”

It’s not hard to see why her position as co-CEO and majority shareholder can be confusing to some. Because of her desire for complete privacy, Denise is not mentioned by name in the company accounts.

Instead, it’s merely the “highest-paid director” that took home the ￡250 million (approx. $308 million) pay package in 2021.

Denise Coates’ exact net worth has been a topic of debate over the past several years. At the time of writing, Forbes’ real-time net worth data places the figure at ￡3.8 billion (or around $4.8 billion).

Meanwhile, the bet365 company reported revenue of ￡2.81 billion (approx. $3.5 billion) in March 2021.

The Denise Coates Foundation

With such formidable revenue flooding into bet365, Denise formed the Denise Coates Foundation (formerly known as the bet365 Foundation) in August 2012.

Denise’s philanthropy has benefited multiple charities throughout the years, both locally in the UK and worldwide.

Some notable contributions include:

• ￡1 million donated to support families fleeing the war in Ukraine
• Relief support for those devastated by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines
• Funding for gynaecological equipment at the University Hospital of North Midlands
• Funding for the training of assistance dogs for the physically disabled
• Support for educational training programs for an autism charity
• Support for a charity empowering female education in nations where such education is disproportionately low
• Charitable donations to support people in sub-Saharan Africa living with HIV/AIDS

Alongside her company’s charitable donations, bet365 donates 0.1 percent of its gross gaming yield to GambleAware, the UK charity that provides support programs for problem gamblers across the country.

The donation is part of a voluntary initiative that urges UK gambling operators to help fund the necessary programs as part of their duty to promote responsible gambling.

A quarter of the charity’s 2021-2022 funds have come from bet365, totalling around ￡4.2 million (or $5.2 million). The company donated the same amount the year before.

Coates also pays the highest amount of tax in the country.

She has topped the Sunday Times Tax List for three consecutive years, with her family paying around ￡481.7 million (approx. $593 million) in tax last year alone.

By keeping her business in the UK in North Staffordshire rather than moving to a jurisdiction with lower tax brackets, Denise has paid almost ￡1.3 ($1.6) billion in tax since 2016.

Though costly, this decision has earned her much support from Stoke MPs and the rest of the UK government.

Family Life

Much like her childhood, details of Denise’s family life have been kept firmly under wraps.

Considering her family’s ties to Stoke City FC, it’s unsurprising that her husband, Richard Smith, is a director of the club. The two met during her university years, though it’s unclear when they officially tied the knot.

Details gathered from various interviews confirm that Denise and her husband have five children together, four of which are sisters adopted from the same family. Whether or not the fifth child is biological or adopted remains unknown.

It’s evident that the Coates family values privacy over publicity. Until recently, there had been little knowledge of how the Coates spend their money (aside from Denise’s Aston Martin DB9 with its personalized number plates).

Now, however, Denise and her husband are building their dream house in Crewe, UK, and the process has been anything but private.

The ￡90 million (approx. $111 million) project has raised a few eyebrows, particularly from neighbors in the area.

Some have approached the media to express their annoyance at the disruption it’s causing, while others said they were offered million-pound payouts to have their land and homes absorbed by the Coates estate.

The property, which began construction in 2019, will be a three-story “glass palace” designed by architect firm Foster + Partners (famous for buildings like the Gherkin and Wembley Stadium).

The house will sit on a 52-acre country estate and feature a sunken tennis court, cycle tracks, stables, walled gardens, and even a 75,000 square foot artificial lake with a matching glass lakehouse.

An Inspirational Leader

In the space of 21 years, bet365 has gained over 6 million customers spanning 200 countries and created more than 5,000 employment opportunities.

Coates herself has paid over ￡1.3 billion in tax in the last five years, while donating millions to charitable causes through the Denise Coates Foundation.

While some may disagree with the industry in which Denise Coates made her fortune, there can be no doubt about the monumental success of her efforts.

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Bookmaker and mob boss, a drug lord and brutal murderer, devoted family man, avid reader of philosophy, poet, and philanthropist.

If you think we got confused and wrote about several different people, think again. This is the story of a man that was all of the above.

Bumpy Johnson was a 20^th-century Harlem crime figure revered and reviled by the public. As the “Harlem Godfather,” he dominated the neighborhood’s illegal gambling scene and ruled with an iron fist.

Yet, as a respected confidante of Malcolm X, Bumpy had a conflicting morality that earned him his community’s fear, love, and admiration.

Who Was Bumpy Johnson?

Ellsworth Raymond “Bumpy” Johnson was a mob boss in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City.

His nickname originated from the unusual growth on the back of his head, though some attribute it to the number of enemies he “bumped” and made disappear.

Bumpy’s criminal activity spanned over four decades, half of which he spent in and out of the most notorious prisons in America.

Throughout his 40-year career, Bumpy was a bookmaker, bodyguard, pimp, and drug lord. At the same time, he was a published poet, philosopher, philanthropist, and devoted father. 

From fleeing his home to avoid racial persecution to ending the war between Harlem bookies and the Italian mafia, Johnson was a figure whose criminal acts were inextricably linked to his race.

By the time he died in 1968, Bumpy had become the anti-hero of Harlem.

The Early Years

Bumpy Johnson was born in South Carolina in 1905. Living in the Deep South during the Segregation Era, Bumpy was raised against a torrid backdrop of racism and oppression.

His family lived in constant fear of racial violence.

When Johnson was 10 years old, his brother Willie was accused of murdering a white man. Fearful that a lynch mob would attack him, Willie was sent to live with family in Harlem.

Bumpy followed Willie not long after, and it was in Harlem that Bumpy would eventually become one of the most infamous crime bosses in New York City.

Criminal Beginnings

By the age of 15, Johnson was hanging around with a wrong crowd and working odd jobs, as well as playing pool and shooting dice for money.

By the age of 16, he and his gang of merry men were selling protection and committing armed robberies.

And by 17, Bumpy found himself a resident of the Elmira Reformatory.

While Jonhson was still young, he met William “Bub” Hewlett, a gangster who admired Bumpy’s boldness when he refused to leave Bub’s storefront. He invited Bumpy to work for him, protecting Harlem’s high-profile numbers runners.

Illegal Gambling Operations

Though card rooms offering games like poker and blackjack were flourishing in cities across America, it was the numbers game that took over Harlem.

Also known as the numbers racket or Italian lottery, it was an illegal lottery popularized in the 1920s and 30s. With bets starting at just a penny, the game was predominantly played in poor and working-class neighborhoods.

While many independent bookmakers capitalized on the numbers racket, Bronx mob boss Dutch Schultz bulldozed almost every bookie into working for him.

This was much better than the alternative – losing their business altogether.

However, Stephanie St. Clair, one of the only female racket runners in Harlem, refused to back down.

The Queen Of Numbers

Johnson’s reputation as a bold and brutal bodyguard attracted St. Clair’s attention.

Nicknamed the “Queen of the Policy Rackets,” she enlisted his help, and together they waged war against the most prominent crime bosses in New York.

Schultz, in particular, was a target of Johnson’s aggression.

Johnson’s wife, Mayme Hatcher, noted in her biography that he waged a “guerrilla war of sorts” and picked off Schultz’s men one by one.

In 1935, Schultz’s attempts to monopolize the numbers game ended abruptly after Italian mobster Charles “Lucky” Luciano ordered a hit on him.

Around the same time (perhaps due to his murder), St. Clair decided to lay low. Subsequently, she handed the business over to Johnson.

Johnson had met St. Clair in 1932 after he left prison. In the years between their meeting and St. Clair’s withdrawal from Harlem’s rackets operations, Bumpy kidnapped and murdered over 40 people.

Mollifying The Mafia

Luciano, who was also a prominent racketeer and New York cardroom operator, had also been feeling the effects of Schultz’s attempted takeover.

With Schultz now out of the way, Johnson and Luciano could form an alliance that, unbeknownst to Johnson, would set a precedent for his career as a crime boss.

The pair agreed that Johnson could control all the racket operations in Harlem, provided that Luciano received a share of the profits.

Though the deal wasn’t perfect, Bumpy had managed to do what so many before him hadn’t: He negotiated and ended the war with the mafia.

The simple agreement was meaningful because, as Mayme notes, the people of Harlem realized “for the first time a black man had stood up to the white mob instead of bowing down and going to get along.”

After this negotiation, Johnson became a revered figurehead of Harlem – the man who stood up for his community and won. Bumpy was now the leading operator of Harlem’s underground casino scene.

Expanding The Business

Alongside the Harlem number rackets, Johnson became involved in drug trafficking, mainly selling heroin.

As his gang grew, Bumpy eventually became the kingpin of Harlem. Now, any and all illegal business ventures had to be approved by Johnson first.

With profits rolling in, Bumpy was able to provide for the most vulnerable in Harlem. He delivered meals, gifts, free turkeys at Thanksgiving, and put the children of financially struggling families through college.

Thus he became a complex, double-sided coin: A murderous crime boss on one side and a philanthropic Robin Hood on the other.

Bumpy Johnson’s Family

Bumpy’s family is a prime example of the moral ambiguities surrounding his life.

He met his wife, Mayme, in 1948 after serving a 10-year prison sentence for various crimes.

Though she was well aware of his violent criminal history, the pair married three months later and stayed together until his death.

Bumpy’s relationship with his daughter Elise was also a contradiction of his two identities.

Though a family man, Bumpy was estranged from his daughter, who was addicted to the heroin that he trafficked.

Bumpy and Mayme ended up raising Elise’s daughter, their granddaughter, as their own.

Doing Time In Alcatraz

In 1952, Bumpy was sentenced to 15 years in prison for conspiring to sell heroin, the longest sentence he would face in his lifetime.

Despite his appeal, the verdict was maintained, and he was sent to Alcatraz, the most notorious prison in America.

Johnson served 10 years of his 15-year sentence. During this time, unconfirmed reports claim that he used his outside connections to help three inmates escape.

Mayme theorized that although Bumpy himself could have escaped, he preferred to leave as a free agent.

After serving his time in Alcatraz, Bumpy was welcomed back to Harlem with an enormous parade. However, upon his return, Bumpy found that the Italian mafia had overrun the narcotics trade in Harlem.

Godfather of Harlem, the 2019 Epix series documenting Johnson’s life, portrays Bumpy Johnson’s daughter Elise’s addiction as the catalyst that inspires him to rehabilitate the neighborhood. 

Friendship With Malcolm X

Towards the end of his life, Malcolm X began to sever his association with Johnson’s criminal reputation. Before then, however, the two had been close friends.

Bumpy had known Malcolm X since he was a street hustler in the 1940s. Malcolm even enlisted Bumpy’s protective services when he split from the Nation of Islam, and his enemies began to stalk him.

Eventually, Malcolm X decided his association with a known criminal might damage his image and asked Bumpy to stand down his guards. He was assassinated only weeks later.

Though he distanced himself from Johnson in the end, Malcolm X had always admired Bumpy for his intelligence and poetic ability (the latter of which had seen him published in several prominent magazines during the Harlem Renaissance).

How Did Bumpy Johnson Die?

Amidst another indictment for trafficking crimes, Bumpy Johnson died in 1986. In an unexpected (and rather anticlimactic) capitulation of his decades-long crime career, Bumpy died of a heart attack.

Despite numerous attempts on his life by various drug lords and mafia gangsters, cholesterol ultimately killed off Harlem’s most notorious crime boss.

His wife, who would outlive Johnson by a further 41 years, noted that it was the best possible way for Bumpy, or any man, to pass.

Mayme reflected: “Bumpy’s life may have been a violent and turbulent one, but his death was one that any Harlem sporting man would pray for – eating fried chicken at Wells Restaurant in the wee hours of the morning surrounded by friends. It just can’t get better than that.”

Bumpy In Popular Culture

Johnson has been portrayed in several on-screen odes, either as himself or as inspiration for a loosely-based character.

Johnson’s first pop-culture appearance came in the 1971 cult film Shaft, with the character “Bumpy Jonas” based on him.

Several other films contain characters based on Johnson, including Come Back Charleston Blue (1972), Escape from Alcatraz (1979), The Cotton Club (1984), and Life (1999).

Hoodlum (1997) was the first film to portray Bumpy Johnson as himself, followed by Ridley Scott’s iconic telling of his life in American Gangster (2007).

However, Johnson’s wife refused to watch the latter, claiming that Bumpy’s relationship with Frank Lucas in the film was entirely fictitious.

The most recent and (arguably) most famous representation of Johnson’s life is Epix’s 2019 TV series, Godfather of Harlem (2019 –). The show, which focuses on Bumpy’s return from Alcatraz, has been nominated for numerous awards.

Off-screen, Bumpy Johnson has also been memorialized in the form of Prodigy’s post-prison album, The Ellsworth Bumpy Johnson EP, and The Bumpy Johnson Album.

A Lifelong Legacy

Ultimately, Bumpy Johnson is a figure that sits somewhere between man and myth.

While Johnson was loved by the Harlem community he provided for, the way he acquired the wealth to do so was mostly through despicable means that harmed the very same community he was helping.

Namely, flooding the streets with drugs and using that drug money to support the community.

The racial violence Johnson experienced as a child shaped his whole life. After being shipped to Harlem, Johnson learned how to fight and stand up to those in power.

Under the mentorship of Stephanie St. Clair, he waged (and won) a bloody war with Dutch Schultz. He then successfully ended the war between Black Harlem and the white Italian mafia.

With the profits of his racketeering and drug trafficking businesses, Johnson lived a lavish life full of glamour and fame.

All the while, he was helping Harlem’s vulnerable and impoverished. However, Bumpy’s life was full of contradictions.

Thanks to him, many of Harlem’s youth could attend college and ascend beyond their poor upbringing. Yet it was also because of him that many lost their lives.

Bumpy Johnson passed away surrounded by his closest friends after a four-decade criminal career (and over 40 arrests).

Both a hero and a villain, Bumpy’s legacy lives on as one of the most infamous mob bosses of the 20^th century.