From a Joker to a King

Talk about transformation. There is a guy in our league, that has always had a care less attitude about how he played. He was there to have a good time, and socialize. And he was great at it. Everyone loves him--even if the way he played threw people off of their game. He might make the points once in a great while--but his final table appearances were far and few between.

But something has changed....about a month ago, he went to Biloxi with his dad and played "real" poker. He had a great time, and learned that he actually could play, rather than just horse around at the table. Of course, it helped that he won money.

When he got back from his trip, he started playing the game more seriously, and because the people in the league are used to the fun loving, goofy guy--he gets called all the time. Needless to say, his standings have increased quite a bit...and his final table appearances have almost been 80-90% of the times that he plays.

Last Thursday night, he had his very first win! He was ecstactic even on Friday. In two years of playing the league, he has not every come in first place. I joked with him that he was a walk-in, and I wanted the real TI back, or I was gonna go to Biloxi and look for him.

Then Sunday, he played an earlier session at another bar...and he again won first place! And then he came to my bar....got down to $1700, turned it into $30,000, and ended up winning again! Three sessions within one weekend is kind of a rarity in our league--especially at three different bars. He won over $150 for his free poker playing.

This past week, he didn't do as well....and then Thursday night, he won yet again! 4 wins in one week.

I don't know what to make of it, and his winning so much is making me re-evaluate the way that I play (which is too tight)--but I am consistent. I just haven't won a tournament in a while. His wins are also making me question how much luck is really involved in poker. Is it luck that he has won 4 sessions, or has his poker game really improved so much? I guess time will tell.

I've been working and playing this league for over two years, and I don't believe that I know anyone that has won 4 times in one week.

I am very proud of him, and it is giving me great pleasure to watch his transformation, and confidence in his game grow.

Lol---maybe it was the trip to Biloxi, or maybe it was Phil Ivey's autograph, or maybe it's the corner seat, or maybe it's just his time to ride a wave of great cards, and good decision making.

We'll see!