March Madness is an annual college basketball tournament in the United States that takes place every March. It's one of the country's most popular and highly anticipated sporting events, with millions of people tuning in to watch the games on television or attending them in person. The tournament's history dates back to 1939 when the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) organized a postseason invitational tournament to crown a national champion. The tournament was initially limited to eight teams, but it gradually expanded over the years, with the current format including 68 teams. In this article, we'll highlight everything you need to know about this year's tournament and tell you all about March Madness betting promos. What Is the 2023 March Madness? The tournament is divided into four regions (East, West, South, and Midwest), each containing 16 teams. The March Madness tournament features 68 teams, and there are two ways for a team to qualify. The first way is for a team to win its respective conference tournament. All 32 Division I conferences have an automatic bid to the tournament, with the winner of each conference tournament being granted a spot. It doesn't matter if a team has a poor regular season record; it's in if it wins its conference tournament. These 32 teams are known as "automatic qualifiers." The second way for a team to qualify is through an at-large bid, which the selection committee awards. The committee is responsible for selecting the remaining 36 teams in the tournament, considering factors such as a team's overall record, the strength of schedule, and quality wins. Teams that receive an at-large bid typically have strong regular season records but could not secure an automatic bid by winning their conference tournament. The teams are selected through a "Selection Sunday" process, during which a committee of experts announces the participating teams and their seedings (rankings). The tournament is then played in a single-elimination format, with teams being eliminated after a loss until one team is crowned the national champion. Because there are 68 total teams, four teams play in a qualifying tournament known as the "First Four" for the final sport in the 64-team tournament. The tournament's popularity can be attributed to several factors, including the high level of competition, the excitement of a single-elimination format, and the widespread interest in college basketball among American sports fans. There are a lot of March Madness betting sites that offer different markets surrounding the competition. You can do your March Madness betting online from the comfort of your home, even during the games. The tournament is also known for its "Cinderella stories," where lower-ranked teams upset higher-ranked teams, making it a thrilling experience for viewers. The unpredictability also enhances the experience of users that are doing March Madness betting on games. [sigma-mt-blog-post-play recordids="643778,641365"] 2023 Madness: Odds, Lines, and Spreads March Madness is one of the biggest events in college sports and one of the most popular times of year for sports betting. Here's a breakdown of the different types of odds, lines, and spreads that you might see in March Madness betting trends: Odds: The March Madness betting odds for a particular game will tell you how much you can win if you place a bet on the winning team. For example, if a team is listed at +150 odds, that means you would win $150 for every $100 you bet on that team. On the other hand, if a team is listed at -150 odds, you would need to bet $150 to win $100. Spreads: The spread is similar to the March Madness lines, but it is the difference in points between the two teams. For example, if 7 points favor one team, the spread would be -7 for that team and +7 for the underdog. The March Madness spreads balance the betting action and make the game more interesting to bet on. When it comes to NCAA March Madness, many different betting options are available, including individual game bets, futures bets on the overall tournament winner, and prop bets on things like the total number of points scored in a game or the number of three-pointers made by a particular team. The most important March Madness futures bet is who is going to win the National Championship. These March Madness odds are usually evened up because it's so hard to predict who will be crowned the National champion, and this year is no exception. Here are the odds to win March Madness 2023: Houston (+650) Kansas (+800) Alabama (+900) Purdue (+1000) UCLA (+1000) Baylor (+1500) Arizona (+1700) UCONN (+2000) Texas Tech (+2500) Tennessee (+2500) Gonzaga (+2600) Marquette (+2600) Indiana (+3000) TCU (+3000) Saint Marys CA (+3500) Creighton (+4200) Virginia (+4500) Kentucky (+4500) March Madness Betting Promos March Madness is one of the biggest events for sports betting sites, and many sportsbooks offer March Madness promotions and March Madness bonuses to attract new customers and reward loyal ones. Some common March Madness betting promos include free bets, matched deposits, and enhanced odds on certain games or outcomes. Some sportsbooks also offer cashback bonuses or parlay insurance, which can help mitigate losses for bettors who place multiple bets. You can also participate in the bracket challenge and compete with other users by trying to achieve the perfect bracket. As always, it's important to read the terms and conditions carefully before taking advantage of any betting promo to ensure that you understand the requirements and restrictions. For example, Bet365 offers a March Madness sign-up promotion that allows you to claim up to a $200 bonus for a $1 bet. However, the minimum deposit you need to make is $10. The qualifying wager must be placed within 30 days of the registration and contain a selection of -500 or higher. Finding promotions like these is crucial for improving your public betting on March Madness and will definitely enhance your betting experience. Bracket Challenge Another aspect of March Madness's popularity is the pursuit of a perfect bracket, which is when someone correctly predicts the winner of every game in the tournament. While it's theoretically possible to achieve a perfect bracket, the odds of doing so are astronomically high, with some estimates putting the odds at 1 in 9.2 quintillion if you are looking at each matchup as a 50/50 chance. For those who follow college basketball, the odds are lower at 1 in 120.2 billion. As a result, March Madness bracket pools have become a popular social activity, with around 70 million brackets competing against each other to see who can come closer to a perfect bracket. It's not uncommon that there are March Madness bracket betting picks at various sportsbooks, rewarding the user that comes closest to a perfect one. For those who follow college basketball, the odds are lower at 1 in 120.2 billion. As a result, March Madness bracket pools have become a popular social activity, with around 70 million brackets competing against each other to see who can come closer to a perfect bracket. It's not uncommon that there are March Madness bracket betting picks at various sportsbooks, rewarding the user that comes closest to a perfect one. No one has ever managed to have a completely perfect bracket, which is understandable, considering the odds of that happening. The closest anybody has come to achieving the perfect bracket is Gregg Nigl from Ohio. In 2019, he correctly predicted the outcome of the first 49 tournament games and was the first person to have a live bracket during the Sweet 16 part of the tournament. Quite impressive, considering the odds and the number of people participating in this challenge. March Madness Betting Strategies Regarding the March Madness betting strategy, there are several factors to consider. There are a couple of March Madness betting tips. One of the most important is momentum. With the tournament being a knockout format, a team's recent form can be critical to its chances of advancing. Teams that have performed well in their conference tournaments should be considered in the early rounds of the tournament. However, it's important not to rely on the conference tournament winner as the best bet. Sometimes, a team that has consistently performed well but flown under the radar might be a better choice. This is where the eye test comes in handy, as it can help you evaluate a team's overall talent level and potential to perform well in the tournament, especially when doing March Madness live betting. Another key factor to consider when betting on March Madness is the powerhouses of college basketball. Even if a team hasn't been in great form during the regular season, it might save itself for the tournament. Teams like Gonzaga, North Carolina, and Kentucky are perennial basketball powerhouses, and they should always be on your radar when evaluating potential bets. Finally, it's important to note that #1 seeds are historically the best bets in March Madness. They have a long history of making it to the Elite 8 and beyond, so they should be March Madness best bets considering they have the best odds to win March Madness. However, it's important to remember that upsets are always possible in the tournament, and you should never rely solely on past performance when evaluating potential bets. Overall, you can increase your chances of making successful bets during March Madness by considering momentum, paying attention to basketball powerhouses, and keeping an eye on #1 seeds. March Madness and NBA Draft March Madness can significantly influence the NBA draft, as the tournament provides a platform for college basketball players to showcase their skills on a national stage. Many NBA scouts and executives closely follow the tournament, looking for potential draft picks and evaluating players' performances in high-pressure situations. In previous years, several NBA players have used March Madness as an opportunity to boost their draft stock. For example, in 2019, Ja Morant of Murray State made a name for himself with his standout performances in the tournament, which helped him become a top-three pick in the NBA draft that year. Similarly, in 2018, Villanova's Donte DiVincenzo performed remarkably in the national championship game, which helped him become a first-round draft pick in the NBA. March Madness can also provide a platform for lesser-known players to gain attention from NBA scouts and executives. For example, in 2016, a player named Damian Jones from Vanderbilt had a strong showing in the tournament, which helped him become a first-round draft pick in the NBA. Usually, some of the biggest prospects coming into the NBA are featured in the "Big Dance," as NBA teams look closely at how the top picks lead their teams. However, in 2023 the situation might be a little different as there is a possibility that the top four picks won't be coming from the NCAA at all. Victor Wembanyama, a 7-foot-3 wunderkind from France, is projected to be the first overall pick in the upcoming draft and is currently playing for Metropolitans in the French league. Scoot Henderson is a close second and plays for the G-League Ignite, an NBA project that allows players to play professionally straight out of high school. Finally, twins Amen and Ausar Thompson will probably be in the top five picks in the upcoming draft. They play for the City Reapers in the Overtime Elite League, another project allowing high schoolers to go straight to pros. There are still major prospects to look out for in this year's NCAA tournament. Alabama's Brandon Miller is leading his team to the top of the Southeastern conference, one of the toughest in the NCAA. Other important prospects include Jarace Walker from Houston, Keyonte George from Baylor, Cam Whitmore from Vilanova, and G.G. Jackson from South Carolina. If you are considering placing March Madness prop bets, one of these guys could be a good pick. March Madness Fun Facts With its long tradition in the history of college basketball, March Madness has had many unforgettable moments. We all hope this season's edition will again be full of great games, moments, and upsets. Let's take a look at some of the interesting things that have happened in the tournament since its creation. Best March Madness Player Ever? Two players stand out when we talk about the two best college players of all time—Christian Laettner and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Christian Laettner, the all-time leading scorer in March Madness history, played for Duke University from 1988 to 1992. Laettner scored a total of 407 points in 23 NCAA tournament games, averaging 17.7 points per game. He also holds the record for most free throws made in the tournament—142. Laettner was a key player on two Duke championship teams in 1991 and 1992 and is widely considered one of the greatest college basketball players ever. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, formerly known as Lew Alcindor, won three NCAA men's basketball championships during his college career at UCLA. He played for the Bruins from 1966 to 1969, leading them to titles in those years. Abdul-Jabbar was a dominant force in college basketball, winning three consecutive National Player of the Year awards and setting numerous records, many of which still stand today. He is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time at college and professional levels. The Biggest March Madness Bets It's difficult to say what the biggest bet ever won on March Madness is, as sportsbooks typically don't disclose individual bettor information. However, some notable March Madness bets have resulted in large payouts over the years. One of the biggest was a bet placed on the Villanova Wildcats to win the 2016 NCAA tournament. The bettor, who was identified only as "D.J." by the sportsbook, placed a $1,500 futures bet on Villanova to win the tournament at 50-1 odds before the start of the tournament. Villanova went on to win the championship, and "D.J." collected a payout of $75,000. Billionaire Warren Buffett placed another famous March Madness bet. In 2018, Buffett offered $1 million per year for life to any Berkshire Hathaway employee who correctly predicted the Sweet 16 teams in the NCAA tournament. The bet was free to enter and open to all employees, and the odds of winning were estimated to be around 1 in 2.4 trillion. No one won the prize, but Buffett still gave $100,000 to the employee who made it the farthest in the competition. Biggest Upsets in March Madness History March Madness is known for its unpredictability and exciting upsets that have shocked the basketball world over the years. Some of the biggest upsets in NCAA tournament history include the 1985 championship game, where Villanova defeated heavily-favored Georgetown; the 1991 Duke victory over UNLV, who were the defending national champions and had won 45 consecutive games; 1998 Valparaiso win over Ole Miss on a last-second 3-pointer, the 2012 Lehigh upset over Duke, and the historic 2018 UMBC upset over Virginia, the first time a 16-seed had ever defeated a 1-seed in the tournament. These upsets have produced some of the most memorable moments in March Madness history, and fans worldwide look forward to seeing what surprises and Cinderella stories will unfold in future tournaments. FAQ Who has the best chance of winning March Madness 2023? The lowest odds to win the March Madness in 2023 are for the University of Houston at +600. What are the chances of winning the March Madness bracket challenge? The odds of having a perfect bracket are around 1 in 120.2 billion if you follow college basketball. Who is the most accurate March Madness picker? The closest anybody has come to achieving the perfect bracket is Gregg Nigl from Ohio. In 2019, he predicted the outcome of the first 49 games and was the first person to have a live bracket during the Sweet 16. Try to beat him by participating in March Madness betting promos.

Have you ever wondered about the various types of poker games available to play? From community card games to draw and stud games, the world of poker is vast and varied. From its uncertain origins to its evolution into the many variations it has today, millions of people have enjoyed poker for generations. This article will explore some of the various types of poker games, including their history and how they’ve changed over the years. So, whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to learn about the types of poker games, read on to discover more. History of Poker Poker has a long and fascinating history, dating back to 10th-century China, where a game similar to poker was played with tiles. However, the poker we know today evolved in the United States, specifically in New Orleans, in the early 19th century. From there, the fun spread across the country and eventually to the rest of the world. The early versions of poker were primarily played with just 20 cards and were referred to as “poque.” As the game grew in popularity, it was expanded to include the whole deck of 52 cards. Also, the rules and hand rankings were established. Over the years, poker has undergone many changes, with new variations being created and others falling in popularity. In the 1970s and 1980s, the popularity of poker exploded with the advent of the World Series of Poker and the emergence of poker as a televised sport. Today, poker continues to be a popular pastime enjoyed by millions of people worldwide. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a worldwide phenomenon, the history of poker is rich and fascinating. And, as new variations and styles of the game continue to emerge, it’s clear that poker will continue to evolve and remain a beloved game for generations to come. Community Card Poker This type of poker game is a staple in the poker world, allowing players to use strategy, bluffing, and critical thinking to make the best hand. The basic concept is simple—each player receives two hole cards, and several face-up community cards are revealed on the table. The objective is to combine these cards to create the best hand possible. Texas Hold’em Texas Hold’em is a beloved community card game that has captivated players for years. This exciting game is played by two or more players, each receiving two private cards, known as hole cards. The game then moves on to the reveal of five deck cards in three rounds—the flop, turn, and river. These face-up cards are shared by all players and can be used in combination with their hole cards to form the best five-card hand possible. Texas Hold’em aims to have the best hand at the end of each betting round and to build the largest pot potential through strategic betting. Texas Hold’em is famous for its fast-paced action and ability to build large pots. The game is known for its thrilling and competitive experience, with players making strategic decisions based on their cards and opponents. Texas Hold’em requires strategy, skill, and luck, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner. With each betting round, the pot grows, and the excitement rises. Another aspect that draws players to Texas Hold’em is its versatility. The game can be played in various settings, from home games with friends to high-stakes tournaments. And with each hand dealt, the poker pot grows larger. There’s no limit to the excitement that can be experienced when playing this game. So if you’re looking for a game that is both challenging and fun, look no further than Texas Hold’em, one of the most popular community card games. Omaha Hi-Lo Another well-liked community card game, Omaha, is comparable to Texas Hold’em. It requires players to use two hole cards and three deck cards to make their hands in Omaha. This adds depth to the game, making it a favorite among experienced players. With a wider range of possible hands, Omaha offers a unique challenge. One of the defining features of Omaha is the broader range of possible hands. Unlike Texas Hold’em, where players can use any combination of their hole cards and community cards, Omaha requires players to use two of their hole cards. This added constraint leads to a greater variety of possible hands and a more complex game strategy. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, Omaha offers a fresh and exciting challenge. With its unique combination of luck and strategy, this game will keep you on the edge of your seat and constantly striving to build the largest pot possible. Traditional Poker Games Traditional poker is the original form of poker that has been played for generations. Unlike community card games, it relies solely on the cards dealt to each player and doesn’t involve community cards. Traditional poker is perfect for players who enjoy well-thought-out strategies to make their bets. This type offers a classic challenge for players. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, these games provide opportunities to outwit your opponents. So why not give a traditional poker game a try? Five-Card Draw Five-Card Draw is a classic form of poker that has been played for many years. The game is simple—each player is dealt five cards, and they can pull out and replace cards to improve their hand. The objective is to make the best five-card hand possible. This game is an excellent choice for inexperienced poker players. It’s easy to learn and offers a basic understanding of hand rankings and strategy. Seven-Card Stud Another classic form of poker enjoyed for generations is the Seven-Card Stud. The game is played with seven cards, four face-down and three face-up. The objective is to make the best five-card hand without using deck cards. This type offers a different kind of challenge, as players must pay close attention to the cards that are revealed and the hands that their opponents are building. Razz Razz is a new form of poker that challenges players to make the lowest hand possible. The best hand is A-2-3-4-5, and the worst hand is 10-J-Q-K-A. This game is perfect for players who enjoy low-hand games. Draw Poker This popular type of poker allows players to perfect their strategy and bluffing skills. The basic idea of draw poker is that players are dealt a complete hand they can replace or improve by drawing additional cards. These games offer a range of options for players, each with its own challenges and excitement. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced low-hand, a single-draw, or a unique and challenging poker variation like Badugi, this poker variation has something for everyone. Triple-Draw Lowball Triple-Draw Lowball is a poker variant in which the goal is to obtain the lowest possible hand. Players are dealt five cards and have three rounds of drawing cards and betting to improve their hands. The game is played in a limited format and requires careful consideration of what cards to keep and what cards to discard. Deuce-to-Seven Lowball Deuce-to-Seven Lowball is another low-hand poker game where the objective is to create the lowest possible hand, but with a twist. The best hand in this game is 2-3-4-5-7, which is known as a “wheel.” This fast-paced variant requires quick thinking, as players have only one round to receive cards and place bets in the pot. Single-Draw Lowball Similar to Deuce-to-Seven Lowball but with only one round of card drawing, Single-Draw Lowball is another poker variation. Players are dealt five cards and then have one opportunity to improve their hands. This game is often played in a no-limit format and offers a chance for big hands and pots. Badugi Badugi is a unique and challenging form of draw poker that’s very different from other poker games in terms of strategy. The objective in Badugi is to create a hand with four cards of different suits and values, with the lowest card being the most important. Players are dealt four cards and have one round of drawing to improve their hands. This game requires careful consideration of what cards to keep and what cards to discard. Mixed Poker Card Games Different poker variants are combined in a tournament or cash game setting to form mixed poker card games. These games provide players with a unique challenge because they need to know how to play different kinds of poker to do well. Mixed poker card games offer a unique challenge for players who must be skilled in various poker games to succeed. Whether you’re looking for a game that includes a mix of traditional games, or a more advanced one like the 8-Game Mix, there’s something for everyone in the world of mixed poker. H.O.R.S.E Texas Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Lo Split 8 or Better, Razz, Seven-Card Stud, and Seven-Card Stud Hi-Lo Split 8 or Better are all combined into one session in H.O.R.S.E. This game requires a deep understanding of each of these games, as well as the ability to adjust strategy as the game changes. 8-Game Mix 8-Game Mix is a poker game combining eight different variations—2-7 Triple Draw, Limit Hold’em, Omaha Hi-Lo 8 or Better, Razz, Seven-Card Stud, Stud Hi-Lo 8 or Better, Pot-Limit Omaha, and No-Limit Hold’em. This game requires a high level of skill and knowledge in all of the included games, making it a challenging and exciting option for experienced players. Mixed Hold’em Both Limit and No-Limit Texas Hold’em are part of the mixed version of the game. Because most players already know how to play Hold’em poker, this mixed game format is great for learning how to adapt your game strategy to the various betting structures. Tips for Beginners If you’re new to the poker world, don’t worry, it’s never too late to start. You can do a few things to help you get started and improve your skills. Some tips for beginners: Start with the basics: Learn the game’s hand rankings, rules, and regulations before playing. Set a budget: Decide on a budget before starting to bet and stick to it. This will help prevent losing more money than you can afford. Play for free: Take advantage of free online poker games to practice, experience the game and betting system, and get a feel for the game before playing for real money. Be patient: Don’t rush to play hands and make hasty decisions. Take your time and think about your moves. Study and analyze your play: Keep track of your games and analyze your play to see where you can improve. Bonus: Popular Online and Offline Tournaments Poker is not only a fun game to play with friends and family but also a popular sport with many online and offline tournaments. Here are some of the most popular poker tournaments: World Series of Poker (WSOP) Online: One of the largest online casino poker tournaments held annually with a massive prize pool. PokerStars Sunday Million: A weekly tournament with a large prize pool and thousands of players worldwide. Partypoker MILLIONS Online: An annual tournament with a multi-million dollar prize pool and top professional players. World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event: The largest and most prestigious live poker tournament is held annually in Las Vegas. World Poker Tour (WPT) Main Event: A series of international poker tournaments with a large prize pool and top professional players. European Poker Tour (EPT) Main Event: An annual series of poker tournaments held across Europe with a large prize pool and top players. Conclusion Poker is a game played around the world by millions of people. Card games like Texas Hold’em and Omaha offer fast-paced action, while traditional games like five-card draw and razz provide a classic and straightforward challenge. Draw poker games allow players to perfect poker bluffing skills and strategy. Regardless of the type of poker game you choose, the world of poker offers endless excitement and opportunities for critical thinking.

Do you want to play poker like a pro? Then you've come to the right place. Today, I'll explain what poker tells are and discuss what you should do in different scenarios when playing against gamblers. What Is a Tell in Poker? A tell in poker is a change in a player's behavior, mood, or approach—a physical or verbal action that gives clues to that player's strength of hand. Finding poker tells is based on the premise that people unwittingly reveal their cards via observable behavior. A player gains an advantage by observing and interpreting another competitor's tell, especially if the tell is unconscious and dependable. Consequently, reading behavioral tells is possible only at live poker tables, while online poker players need to focus on unintentional patterns or actions. To become successful in poker tells, you must constantly evaluate the accuracy in the context of the situation at hand. Interestingly, a tell may be useful even if it's just under 50 percent correct. In this scenario, if the pot was $400 and you paid $100 to call, you would have won $400. Let's add that the only hand you can defeat is a bluff. If such an occurrence happened five times and you called every time, you'd need your opponent to bluff only once to break even. To put it another way, you'd have to win 20% of the time. If you were led to believe by a tell that there was a 40% probability that your opponent was bluffing, it would be in your best interest to call. Note the following fact: A player never bluffs, but he appears to bluff at the current moment. Namely, when you recognize the tell, the chances of him bluffing are far higher than when you don't. If you want to learn how to read people in poker, you need to follow a couple of rules: Don't glance at your cards; observe your opponent. Don't stare at the flop, turn or river in Hold 'em; observe your opponent! When the next stud card appears, OBSERVE YOUR OPPONENT! Tells from Unaware Players In this part, I'll go over common tells from unaware players Appearance Despite the fact that the vast majority of tells occur during play, we can gain valuable insight into our opponent’s strategy even when they're not involved in a poker hand. You should pay attention to certain aspects of each player's play for hints about their poker strategy. Well-dressed individuals, in particular, are more likely to play it safe. On the other hand, a guy with a tattered suit and a loosened tie is more likely to be in a gambling mode and play more loosely. Certainly, those who wear religious amulets and good luck charms or exercise superstitious habits tend to be more luck-conscious and liberal with their stakes than average players. Generally, women are less likely to bluff. To maximize your profit while you're against an unknown opponent, assume that he or she will play like a stereotype until you discover otherwise. Players tend to remember denominations (like Ace, Deuce, and King) better than suits. Stacking Chips Stacking chips is rarely used as a ploy. The neatly organized stack suggests that the player will probably play carefully and hardly ever bluff, so look for more chips on his big stacks because that's his profit. You may bluff by betting marginally more than his profit. When winning, players are hesitant to call, yet a bad call might cost them. After they enter a hand, don't play medium-strength hands; try bluffing them and calling less when they bet. Uneven stacks indicate reckless play. Such a player's approach is overly liberal, but he may profit from big hands with aggressive play. Call more frequently and bluff less. Sharing a Hand Sometimes a player will show his hand to a fellow player who has folded or a friend who has approached the table. Two-player hands reveal a lot about an opponent's hand. If the observer arrives mid-hand, he's the one to watch. He'll employ kindergarten psychology and act the opposite of the hand's strength. However, players are unaware that they tend to follow a trend when a hand is disclosed from the start. Usually, players with weak hands won't display their hands for two reasons: First, he may unintentionally show that he plays poorly. Second, the spectator may tip off his opponent to his poor hand, losing him the pot. If gamblers share the hand, it's likely good enough to warrant involvement. Strong players can utilize this tell to bluff. If you suspect that's the case, observe the onlooker. The best tactic isn't to bet or call without at least a solid hand. Glancing at Chips Players will only steal a look at their chips when they're contemplating a raise, and almost always because they have improved their hand, which is the most useful tell you can notice. You'll see it when you’re observing beginners, average, experienced, and even world-class players. First, be sure the glance isn't an act. When players focus on their chips while thinking you're observing, it's definitely an act. However, the pattern of gazing at the hand, then the stack, then away, practically cannot be an act because they don't know if you're watching. Poker and computer expert Michael Wiesenberg provides a correlated tell. Bettors may look at your chips before making a bet, which is rarer than checking your own stack. If the gaze is quick and short, it usually suggests the player loves his hand and is ready to bet. On the other hand, if your opponent stares at your chips long after he sees his hands, he may be bluffing. Sandbagging is the term for swiftly glancing at chips, quickly looking away, and then raising. Even if you are sure your opponent will bet, you can still use sandbagging as a potent poker weapon. It's conceptually identical to staring at the flop. Your opponent knows very well that the flop helped, so this studying is unnecessary. You won’t catch a bluff in these circumstances, nor should you bluff yourself. Other Common Tells Tell Strategy Players who ask for chips flamboyantly play aggressively and carelessly Call more often/bluff less often Hiding bankroll/wallet implies conservative play Call less often/bluff more often Leaned back/arms folded implies player is in no gambling mood, waiting for good hand Rarely enter a hand Leaned back/arm not folded, looking uninterested implies patience If you’re playing in front, play slightly weaker hands Stack scattered after a win, winner enters hand Very rarely bluff from scratch, give value to their hands A gambler shuffling hand indicates that the hand needs help to become very strong Use logic Uncontrollable shaking is a release of tension, not fear Fold unless you also hold a nuts hand Covering mouth with hand implies unconscious avoidance of examination Call with average or even weak hands Instinctive double-check for a two-pair or a suit in a hole Consider your own hand and play accordingly When a gambler takes time to enjoy a cigarette, he's not afraid of the call 60% reliable, fold unless you have a very strong hand Sudden interest (leaning forward/stopping the humming) usually indicates a very good hand Enter with caution and don't bluff Opponent is taking his/her time on a tough decision Encourage the calls if you raised on strength hands. If you're bluffing, discourage the call Raising after a long hesitation is a bluff in 50% of the cases Call Lack of hesitation implies the hand didn’t improve Bet accordingly Closely protected hands are usually strong If this player opens, pass with all borderline hands Closely protected hands are usually strong If you hold a strong hand, check rather than open, knowing this player will open for you Tells from Actors Before using an actor's tells, you need to be pretty sure that he's acting and not just unaware. It's probably an act if the player has a reason to think you might be recognizing a certain behavior, and he would benefit from you being wrong. Undoubtedly, strong players are less likely to give you tells. Not only would they withhold the most common poker tells world-class players often try to trick by turning some of the more obvious tells around. Weak Means Strong If poker players can persuade you that they have a bad hand when they have a great hand, they'll win a few extra calls. Strong hands are why players go to great lengths to look weak. No player who actually holds a weak hand would ever disclose that. Neither would you expect a bluffer to admit he's bluffing. It's because they're strong that they act weak. The Shrug Shrugging and then raising the poker player is suggesting he's unsure about the bet and that his hand could be a lot stronger. Don't take the bait here. There's only one reason he would do this - he has a near-certain winner on his hands. The best strategy is to call only with strong hands; call with the majority of hands you would generally raise with and don't bluff. The Look Away Those who glance away from the action are more threatening than those who maintain an eye on the bettors. They don't want to do anything to discourage the bet, so be ready for a raise. There are no two ways to do this, so make sure your hand is strong before putting any additional money into this pot. If you raised first, you might want to consider abandoning your bet. Furthermore, the quick look away after seeing the flop is even more telling. Only play excellent hands and fold any that you believe might be mildly advantageous. If you have a strong hand, allow your adversary to do the betting for you, and dare not bluff. The Discard Those who act like they're going to fold their hole cards before the action reaches them are a threat. Why are they doing this if they're not attempting to deceive you? Essentially it's a double move — a player tells the opponent in front that he can raise, and he encourages those behind to call. However powerful your hand may be, it's best to let the opponent bet on your behalf. The Hesitation With the long hesitation, the goal is to make the initial bettor think that raising is a difficult choice. His lengthy delay is an attempt to make you believe his raise is weak. When a player does nothing to prevent a big bet, thinks for a long time, and then makes a big raise, it's unlikely that he's bluffing. If you're willing to part with some nice hands, you'll come out ahead here. What you save by not calling is real money, and you stay in the game waiting for the right opportunity. Strong Means Weak In terms of dollars, catching players who are acting strong is even more valuable. When you determine that a player is acting weak, you'll often save a call, but the value is just a fraction of the total pot. Conversely, when you catch a player acting strong, you'll utilize that to make a call and win the entire pot. The Stare Players stare at a bad flop, trying to appear dangerous. By seeming interested, they want to dissuade betting. As previously covered, you realize that players who like flops tend to look away. Now is the time for a good bluff. Also, call more liberally since he's likely weak or bluffing. Players making eye contact with the bettor are trying to do the same. Another reason opponents keep an eye on your bets is to ensure they won't get short-changed. You may assume an opponent is attempting to act strong when he's only keeping an eye on your stake amount. Aim to elicit a call from a weaker hand by betting medium-strength hands. Bluff as a last resort. Reaching for Chips By grabbing his chips out of turn and looking at his cards, the gambler hopes to seem threatening and prevent them from opening with marginal hands, indicating that the outcome is a sure thing. In this case, you should open with any marginal hand, even those you wouldn't have considered. Strong players may grab the pot early to provoke a call. The rules change when a player grabs the pot while an opponent is passing. The bettor seeks to win the pot by removing an opponent's remaining uncertainties. Any player with a winning hand will let you call. Even with a weak hand, consider calling or raising to bluff. Other Actor Tells Tell Strategy If a player bets and then checks his hand as you grab for chips, he's bluffing Check/Call ‘Accidentally’ exposing means players are trying to convey strength hands Call Active player looking as if the pot is far from his mind, is a dangerous opponent Don’t bluff, play only extremely strong hands and even then, check Pretending to pass to encourage bets Don’t bluff, don’t bet and pass Keeping their hands off their chips to encourage bets Don't bet into or call without a very strong hand Looking at the bettor and reaching for chips to discourage bets Bet marginal hands for value. Think about bluffing, but be careful The player who gently slides his bet is hoping for a call Don't call without an extremely strong hand The bettor who puts chips down with a little extra force hopes for a fold Call/Raise if you can’t win in a showdown Sweeping gestures with outstretched arms are used to lure a call by using strange behavior Fold unless you hold a strong hand The player who looks and bets at the same time wants to lure a call You need a good hand to call Player won't look right at the bettor, but his eyes suggest otherwise Fold Looking away with eyes on the pot Don’t bet Verbal poker tells like sighs or sounds of sorrow imply good hands Beware Online Poker Patterns When it comes to gaining knowledge about our opponents, learning to recognize and identify typical online betting patterns is crucial in 2022. Bear in mind that online poker tells are different from those used in live games. It's important to know some terms used at poker sites: Tanking implies taking a longer time to decide A strange or typed-in bet is a raise in the odds amount, like $7.99 Instead of verbal poker tells, there's now a chat feature that should be considered Move Tell The Check Then Insta-Call Marginal hand, likely to fold if not improved Tank-Checking Hoping to see another card Tank-Calling Quite possibly a fairly strong hand Big raise after Tank Possibly nuts Massive Overbet Rarely a bluff Strange amount bets Value bets, not bluffing Complaining about lost hand Play often against this player Talker goes quiet Watch out Buying in for Unusual Amounts Be involved in hands against these players Conclusion If your goal is to play poker successfully, don't jump to conclusions right away when you spot poker tells. Instead, take your time and display uncertainty. By using this approach, your opponent will be less likely to change his behavior, and you'll be able to keep reading poker tells that your opponent gives. Finally, as the games grow harder, you must take advantage of whatever advantage you can uncover. You won’t improve your win rate if you disregard or don't follow what other players are doing.

Do you enjoy taking chances and the thrill of the unknown? Are you patient, goal-oriented, and able to control your emotions? If so, a career in professional gambling may be right up your alley. A pro gambler’s life may appear to be glamorous, with luxurious casinos, high-stakes bets, and exotic destinations. However, behind the glitz and glam, there’s more to it than meets the eye. So sit back, buckle up, and prepare to dive deep into how to become a professional gambler as we offer tips and advice on succeeding in this exciting field. What Is a Professional Gambler? A person who makes a living out of gambling is considered a professional gambler. Professional gamblers have a special set of abilities, knowledge, and experience that allow them to make a profit from games of chance or skill. Let’s get a taste of the world of high-stakes gambling by taking a look at the different types of gambling these experts can pursue, including sports betting, poker, horse racing, and casino games. Expert Sports Betting Handicapper: How to Be a Pro Sports Bettor Sports bettors are probably the most well-known professional gamblers, and for good reason. They are the epitome of sports fans, possessing a thorough knowledge of their preferred sport and having a sharp eye for statistical analysis. You should be able to spot trends and patterns in data and have a good grasp of the sport you’re betting on, including player statistics, team dynamics, and historical data, in order to succeed as a professional sports bettor. Yet, having knowledge and using data analysis alone won’t make you a successful pro sports bettor, whether you bet online on reputable betting sites or live. You also need to have a firm grasp of money management, the self-control to stick to your betting plan, and the ability to manage your emotions. Moreover, to gain an edge over the competition, successful handicappers employ a variety of tools and techniques, including computer models and data analysis software. We can’t stress enough how crucial money management is since players need to know when to raise or lower their bets in order to boost winnings and decrease losses. Poker Players: Bluffing and Reading Your Opponents Just like other bettors, poker players need to have a special set of skills to succeed. If you want to make a living playing poker, you must have a profound knowledge of game theory, psychology, and poker strategy. Moreover, you must be able to read your opponents’ poker tells well, think on your feet, and make decisions based on the information at your disposal. Nevertheless, becoming a professional gambler involves more than just analytical skills. In addition to mastering your poker face, you also need to manage your cash, bluff well, and remain calm under pressure. Advantage Players: The Art of Beating the Casino Professional gamblers known as “advantage players” seek out ways to beat the house in games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat using specialized strategies. To improve their odds of winning, they may employ strategies such as card counting, shuffle monitoring, or hole carding. Nonetheless, advantage playing is not for the faint of heart. One needs to put in work to beat the casino. Also, it’s crucial to remember that casinos dislike advantage players and will do anything to ban them. Horse Racing Handicappers: Winning at the Track Horse racing handicappers are experts who make well-informed wagers based on their understanding of the sport and statistical research. These seasoned gamblers have a knack for identifying horses that may be overpriced or underpriced, increasing their likelihood of winning. Nonetheless, luck always plays a role in this industry. The outcome of a race can be affected by a wide variety of factors, just like in any other type of gambling. Professional sports gamblers, however, are well-versed in handling uncertainty and making sound judgments that depend on a specific situation. What Does It Take to Become a Professional Gambler? Making a living as a gambler requires a lot of courage. You need a unique set of skills, a solid work ethic, and a little bit of luck to play and win at top online casinos or brick-and-mortar casinos. We’ll go over some of the fundamental tips and tricks to help you on your journey toward becoming a professional gambler. Building a Bankroll: Starting Small to Go Big A crucial first step is building a bankroll. Since losing streaks are inevitable, you must have enough money for gambling. Start small and gradually increase your bankroll by making small bets. To avoid financial catastrophe, resist the urge to wager more money than you can afford to lose. Handling Losses: Learning from Mistakes Even for pro gamblers, losses are a given in the game. The secret is not to let them bring you down. It’s critical to have a plan in place for controlling your losses, including establishing loss caps and taking breaks when you’re on a losing streak. Avoid chasing your losses by upping your stakes or making rash decisions, as doing so will only result in bigger losses—and no one wants that. Handling Wins: Staying Focused No matter how well you deal with defeat, success must also be managed. It’s common to act impulsively after a great triumph since you’re filled with confidence. Make a decision on how much money you want to win and stick to it. Enjoy your successes, but don’t let them cloud your judgment. Adjusting Stakes: Staying Flexible As your job as a professional gambler progresses, it’s possible to change the amounts you wager. Adjust your stakes depending on whether you’re currently on a winning or losing streak. Maintain a degree of adaptability and modify your approach as needed to increase your chances of winning. Professional Gambler Mentality: Staying Disciplined Having the appropriate mentality is crucial if you want to make a living gambling. It takes self-control, persistence, and concentration to achieve success. Don’t act on impulse, stick to your plan, and don’t let your emotions get in the way of your decision-making. Gambling is a long game, so you must keep your cool. Professional Gambler Tax: What You Should Know Being aware of the tax ramifications of your winnings as a professional gambler is crucial. Winnings from gaming are considered income by the IRS and must be reported. Professional gamblers, on the other hand, can subtract their losses from their gains provided they keep detailed records of all transactions. High rollers can benefit from these deductions, but they should still keep meticulous records and take advice from a tax expert to ensure they comply with laws. As such, gamblers should be aware of these rules and speak with a tax expert in their state, as some states have their own tax laws pertaining to gambling winnings. Famous Professional Gamblers and Sharp Bettors Several famous gamblers throughout history have become household names. Some of these people have made a fortune over the course of their gambling careers, while others have become famous for their expertise in one or more subgenres of gambling. We’ll introduce you to some of the most well-known gamblers in history and talk about a professional gambler salary. Mattress Mack: AcSports Betting Legend A well-known entrepreneur and professional gambler from Houston, Texas, Jim McIngvale is also known as Mattress Mack. His prowess in sports betting and marketing endeavors have helped him establish a reputation for himself. Mack is renowned for his huge wagers on sporting events, such as the $3 million bet and $75 million payout for the Houston Astros’ World Series victory in 2022. Also, he frequently provides discounts to his clients, such as free furniture if the Astros win the World Series. It’s estimated that Mack is worth over $300 million, making him one of the wealthiest gamblers in history. Billy Walters: The Most Feared Sports Bettor Billy Walters is a professional sports bettor from the United States who is considered to be one of the most successful and feared gamblers of all time. His wealth is estimated to be in excess of $200 million, and he has a reputation for being able to accurately predict the outcomes of sporting events. Walters has had a successful career, but it hasn’t been without its share of controversy. He was convicted of insider trading in 2017 and sentenced to five years in prison. Despite this, Walters is still a renowned professional bettor in the gaming industry. David Malinsky: The Analytical Sports Handicapper Sports handicapper and author David Malinsky was noted for his methodical, data-driven approach to the game. He was an expert at spotting value bets and openings in the sports betting industry. Malinsky was a well-respected figure in the sports betting sector, although nothing was known about his wealth or remuneration. He tragically died in 2018, yet his works and lessons will live on. Haralabos “Bob” Voulgaris: The Analytics Expert Haralabos “Bob” Voulgaris is an ex-professional Greek-Canadian sports bettor who became famous for his ability to predict the outcomes of NBA games using analytics and data-driven strategies. There is consensus that he is an early innovator in the field of sports betting analytics and that he deserves high regard as a result. There is no information available about his salary or net worth, but his success in the sports betting industry has made him wealthy. Voulgaris is no stranger to the business world outside of gambling, having dabbled in a number of industries. Tony Bloom: The Multi-Talented Gambler Tony Bloom is an experienced gambler who has found success in casino and online poker games. He is well-known for his methodical approach to gambling and his knack for spotting lucrative market opportunities. The current estimate places Bloom’s wealth at $1.5 billion, making him one of the wealthiest and most successful gamblers in the world. Additionally, he owns the professional football team Brighton & Hove Albion of the Premier League. Daniel Negreanu: The Face of Poker As a professional poker player and media personality, Daniel Negreanu has won multiple World Series of Poker titles and is considered to be the best player in the history of the game. His fans love him because of his friendly, outgoing personality. One of the most successful poker players in history, Negreanu has a net worth of over $70 million. He has also dabbled in the media, hosting his own poker podcast, among other things. Zeljko Ranogajec: The King of Gambling Australian professional gambler Zeljko Ranogajec is commonly referred to as the “King of Gambling.” His fortune is estimated to be over $600 million, and he is known as one of the world’s most successful and mysterious gamblers. While sports betting is where he built his wealth, Ranogajec is also well-known for his skills in horse racing, casino games, and other forms of gambling. Ranogajec has achieved great success in life, yet he has remained a reclusive figure, giving very few interviews and making very few public appearances. He has donated several millions of dollars to philanthropic initiatives, particularly those dealing with health and education. [sigma-mt-blog-post-play recordids="541371,786350"] Professional Gambler Strategy: Key Takeaways You need commitment, self-control, and a good game plan to make it as a professional gambler. Here are ten tips from seasoned gamblers that will help you maximize your chances of winning: 1. Realistic Expectations Understanding that gambling is not a stable income stream and that your earnings can and will fluctuate is imperative. Keep your expectations in check, and accept the fact that you can suffer defeat. 2. Focus on One Game Stick to one thing and get really good at it instead of trying to do everything. To improve your gambling skills, we recommend picking a game you already know how to play and expanding your horizons from there. 3. Emotions in Check Don’t make snap decisions based on how you feel. Decisions should be made logically and rationally, never emotionally. 4. Bankroll Management Put aside a specific amount of money you can afford to lose at the casino. Invest only as much as you’re willing to risk. 5. Treat It Like a Business This is one of the most important gambling tips— treat your gambling like a business. If you want to succeed financially, you must keep meticulous records and constantly assess your progress. 6. Pick the Best Games Learn how to find the best betting odds and casino game odds by researching different games and events. Pay more attention to the games that give you the most money back. 7. Know When to Quit Find your target and commit to it. Don’t keep playing after you’ve accomplished your goal or started losing money. 8. Skill Over Luck A player’s success is determined primarily by skill and strategy, with luck playing only a supporting part. Over time, success will require more skill and knowledge. 9. Make Sure You Want This Those who want to make a living gambling should know that it’s not for everyone. Think twice before you decide to put in the work required to achieve your goals. 10. Keep Yourself Motivated Being a professional gambler calls for dedication and perseverance. Maintain your drive by constantly seeking to increase your level of expertise and understanding. As such, never let your gambling take over your life. Take it easy and constantly remind yourself why you’re doing this. How to Be a Professional Gambler: Conclusion That’s all folks! With your newfound gaming expertise, you can make a living doing what you love. Always keep in mind that succeeding in this industry requires a combination of bravery, skill, and luck. Relax, free your mind, and play your cards right. Perhaps you will soon be recognized as the next big star in the gambling world! FAQ Who is the most profitable gambler? Most professional gamblers don’t like to talk about how much money they make, therefore it’s hard to know who the top earners are. Yet, certain well-known names in the gambling industry have achieved significant success, and they include Billy Walters and Zeljko Ranogajec. What makes someone a professional gambler? As opposed to those who bet for fun, professional gamblers must rely on winnings to cover living expenses. Before making such a significant life decision, someone who is interested in learning how to become a professional gambler should conduct thorough research in the field. Can you make a living from gambling? The answer is yes, you can make a living from gambling. This is not a simple job and calls for a lot of self-control, focus, and boldness over time. Pro gamblers should be well-versed in their chosen game, analytical, good with money, and able to maintain self-control.