2022 WPT Lucky Hearts Poker Open at Seminole Hard Rock
The World Poker Tour kicks off its 20th Season at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, FL this January with the $3,500 WPT Lucky Hearts Poker Open Main Event. Join the massive field of poker players sure to flock to Florida to test their skills and be crowned the next WPT Champion!
The huge $2 Million Guaranteed prize pool is destined to attract a record-shattering number of players and a life-changing first prize.
LearnWPT Prepares You For The WPT Lucky Hearts Poker Open
Think you have what it takes to navigate a tough tournament field and have your name etched on the Mike Sexton Champions Cup?
LearnWPT is here with expert strategy tips and fun ways to train to help get your game in shape. Check out some free Strategy Episodes and WPT GTO Trainer solutions to get you ready to crush the competition at the WPT Lucky Hearts Poker Open 🏆.
Get In On The Action ...
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL is welcoming players back to their amazing resort and tournament venue with a full festival of poker action starting on January 13th. Kicking off the festival on the 13th is a $600 multi-flight $1Million Guaranteed deepstack tournament!
This action packed series is capped off with Day 1A of the $2Million Guaranteed WPT Main Tour Event on January 21st. Re-entry Format - Day 1B on January 22nd - Click for more information.
📅 Main Event Schedule:
Day 1A: Friday, January 21, 2022 starting at 11 a.m. ET
Day 1B: Saturday, January 22, 2022 starting at 11 a.m. ET (Registration will remain open until the start of Level 9)
Day 2: Sunday, January 23, 2022 starting at 12 p.m. ET
Day 3: Monday, January 24, 2022 starting at 12 p.m. ET
Day 4: Tuesday, January 25, 2022 starting at 12 p.m. ET
Final Table: Wednesday, January 26, 2022 starting at 2 p.m. ET (final table will be live streamed with 30-min delay)
The super deep championship structure for this $3,500 event offers plenty of chances to outwit and outplay your opponents. Get ready to battle with the best and play for your share of the massive $2M Guaranteed prize pool.
Next Play Better Poker with LearnWPT Live Stream at Seminole Hard Rock!
Before the Main Event LearnWPT Instructor and Host Katie Stone will be talking poker strategy with new LearnWPT Instructor and 3X WPT Champion Brian Altman who became the first player in WPT history to win the same event twice at the WPT Lucky Hearts Poker Open in Season XVIII.
Watch a behind-the-scenes look at the Play Better Poker premiere!
Watch the first episode with guest Andrew "LuckyChewy" Lichtenberger on LearnWPT.com by clicking here.
The next Play Better Poker with LearnWPT Stream will be LIVE from the Lucky Hearts Poker Open January 20th at 10am EST (7am EST) on twitch.tv/learnwpt!!
How Does a Pro Handle The Spotlight?
Making the correct plays at a final table when there are big pay jumps in play can be very challenging. Should you play super tight and only go in with the best hands, or ramp up the aggression and attempt to run over the table?
Watch this LearnWPT Strategy Episode as Instructor Nick Binger breaks down the action from the 2017 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Finale $10,000 Buy-in Event. Tune in as Nick walks you step by step through the thought process of world-class player Jason Koon as he open raises from the Button with a medium stack vs a tough defend from Terry Schumacher in the Big Blind.
How Would YOU Play This Same Spot?
Think you have what it takes to win the WPT Lucky Hearts Poker Open and outwit a world-class Pro? It’s time to challenge the world’s perfect opponent - The WPT GTO Trainer!
Play these 5 hands to test your skills in the exact same scenario Jason found himself. The goal is to get as close to ZERO EV loss with each decision. Good luck...
At a Tournament Final Table you min-raise on the Button with a 30BB stack and the Big Blind with 50BBs calls.
Remaining Payouts (% of Prizepool): 1st = 20% | 2nd = 14% | 3rd = 9% | 4th = 6.7% | 5th = 5% | 6th = 4%
P.S. After playing the hands click the LEARN NOW button to learn the "why" behind the correct plays.
Let's Flip The Script ...
In the previous Strategy Episode Nick Binger walked you through the high-level decision making process used by Jason Koon with big money on the line at a WPT Final table vs a tough opponent in the Big Blind. Now, let's flip the script and take a dive deep into the perspective of Terry Schumacher in the Big Blind facing an open-raise from Jason on the Button.
Watch as Nick illustrates the key factors Terry Schumacher considers when defending the Big Blind vs a late position range and how techniques like floating are essential to combat Jason’s balanced multi-street barreling strategy.
Play It From the Big Blind
It’s now time to switch spots and see how you do as the defender vs the perfect opponent! Play these 5 hands to test your skills from the Big Blind vs the Button and see how close you can get to zero EV loss.
At a Final Table the Button min-raises with a 30BB stack and you call from the Big Blind with 50BBs.
Remaining Payouts (% of Prizepool): 1st = 20% | 2nd = 14% | 3rd = 9% | 4th = 6.7% | 5th = 5% | 6th = 4%
As you train remember:
- Opponents will be opening with a narrower range, especially from out of position
- Medium stacks (around 30BB) can be pressured with a wider raising ranges preflop, especially with many short stacks present
- Your check-calling range should include mostly hands you would want to take to showdown such as strong 1-pair hands
- If an Opponent bets out again on the turn beware, often this turn barreling range will be very narrow due to pay jump implications
- Your check-raising range should be polarized and include hands like second pair, big draws, some very strong hands, and complete air
- If you check the flop and your Opponent checks back, don’t be afraid to attack the turn with larger sizing with made hands and some draws
After playing be sure to click the LEARN NOW button to learn more strategy behind the correct plays.
Need Some Final Table Tips?
Final Table Strategy can differ dramatically from the early stages of a tournament, especially with huge pay-jumps and the prestige that only comes with winning a World Poker Tour title.
Often players are unprepared for the pressure that comes with playing in front of an audience and how your decision making is affected with potentially life-changing money at stake.
While it's difficult to recreate the pressure of performing with the eyes of the world on you, you can start practicing now to succeed at the final table when it matters most.
Here are a few tips to help sharpen up your game for showtime!
- Be aware of stack sizes and pay jumps at all times, even the slightest changes in stack sizes can shift strategy dramatically
- When short stacks exist, there is extra pressure on the bigger stacks to avoid busting out
- The chip leaders can use this extra pressure to win many pots while the short stack is in play
- As a medium stack vs larger stack be cautious with any bets and raises and try to take marginal hands to showdown passively
- Preflop ranges shift quite a bit at final tables due to this effect with big stacks playing much wider ranges and medium stacks much narrower ranges
- Do not be afraid to ramp up your aggression against players that are playing tight in the hopes of laddering up
In case the championship structure, $2M Guaranteed prize pool, and chance to have your name cemented in history as a WPT Champion isn’t enough, you’ll also get a chance to showcase your poker skills live on the World Poker Tour Twitch stream!
Good Luck and Have FUN!
Are you playing the WPT Lucky Hearts Poker Open? Stop and say Hi 👋 to the LearnWPT Team!
Tony Dunst, LuckyChewy, Katie Stone, Brian Altman and Adrian Naggy will be on site and in the action.
If you are playing and want to celebrate a victory or deep run, email the LearnWPT Team to keep us updated. Also make sure to follow and tag us on Twitter @learnwpt, Facebook, or Instagram to share your success on social with the hashtag #WPTLHPO!
Good luck and good playing,
-Team LearnWPT
We hope you enjoyed these free strategies and tips from Team LearnWPT! Subscribe below for more FREE poker content.
Have Questions about LearnWPT? Send an email to our Support Team at [email protected] or click the red CONTACT US button.
TRAIN - PLAY - THINK
LIKE A PRO!
2021 WPTDeepStacks Championship at Thunder Valley
The exciting conclusion to the 2020-2021 WPTDeepStacks season is this December 4-7 when the luxurious Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, CA welcomes the $2,500 WPTDeepStacks Championship.
This event features 30K in starting chips with hour levels plus a massive $1 Million Guaranteed prize pool and is sure to deliver an unparalleled player experience. The friendly and skilled staff at TV Poker Room are no strangers to hosting prestigious events with the World Poker Tour and you can be assured that the WPTDeepStacks Championship will be no exception.
This event not only gives players the chance to score a share of the $1 Million Guaranteed prize pool and experience the first class poker room at Thunder Valley, it also provides the opportunity to be featured LIVE on stream. The final 9 players in the $2500 WPTDeepStacks Championship will play to a winner on Monday December 7th and be featured live on twitch.tv/worldpokertour.
Team LearnWPT is here to help get your game in shape to take down this event with some strategy and tips below!
Get In On The Action...
The TV Poker Room at Thunder Valley in Lincoln, CA is welcoming players to their amazing resort and tournament venue with a full Championship festival of poker action starting on November 15th where players can satellite into the Main Event for as low as $100!
This action packed series is capped off with Day 1A of the WPTDeepStacks Championship Main Tour Event on December 4th. Re-entry Format - Day 1B on December 4th - Click for more info
📅 Main Event Schedule:
Day 1A: Saturday, December 4, 2021 starting at 12 p.m. PT
Day 1B: Sunday, December 5, 2021 starting at 12 p.m. PT
Day 2: Monday, December 6, 2021 starting at 12 p.m. PT
Final Day: Tuesday, December 7, 2021 starting at 12 p.m. PT (final table will be live streamed with a delay)
Prepare for The WPTDeepStacks Championship at Thunder Valley
The Team of world-class professionals at LearnWPT are here to help you get ready for the $2,500 WPTDeepStacks Championship with some in-depth strategies for dealing with the pressure of big money and bright lights.
We’ll kick things off with one of the most talked about hands in poker history, featuring Joe McKeehan and Ian Steinman from the $5,000 WPT Rolling Thunder Main Event at TV Poker Room. Check out the amazing hand below then watch the detailed analysis of this play from LearnWPT Instructor Nick Binger.
Ask Yourself... Can You Fold a Set of Kings?
Picture yourself in this scenario: You’ve been grinding for 4 days and are deep in the WPT Rolling Thunder Main Event at TV Poker Room. You’ve reached the live stream final table and have a good chip stack.
You pick up pocket kings in the Cutoff and open raise. The Big Blind calls and bingo, you hit top set.
Time to double up and find a way to get it all-in! Wait, not so fast ...
Watch this Strategy Episode from Instructor Nick Binger as he breaks down this infamous hand between Ian Steinman and Joe McKeehan to show you the strategy Pros use to make these crucial folds.
Tour Term: What is a Hero Fold?
Hero Fold: verb
he·ro fold \ˈhir-(ˌ)ō ˈfōld \
1) To fold your hand correctly in a spot where on the surface it appears you are highly likely to have the best hand.
LearnWPT and the World Poker Tour are excited to bring players Tour Terms, where we break down key strategy terms from the pages of WPT Live Updates to give you helpful tips to use in your next WPT tournament. Learn more about Tour Terms 3-Bet, Continuation Bet, and Check-Raise!
Need Help Making a Big Fold?
During any one hand of No-Limit Hold’em poker the advantage can change on the turn of a card. While you might be a huge favorite to start the hand holding pocket aces for example, after the board is dealt and all the bets are in the best starting hand in poker may often be reduced to the worst hand.
Every poker player has experienced the feeling that the momentum has shifted in a hand and that “something is up” when the opponent suddenly bets or raises. The skill that separates winning professionals from the rest of the field is knowing precisely when the advantage has shifted in the hand, and when to save chips for future spots.
Learn to make big folds while not being exploited by your aggressive opponents in this Strategy Episode from LearnWPT. Tune in as Nick Binger answers questions submitted by members with the Ask A Pro Feature and learn about how to play top set, what to do when your opponents don’t respect steal attempts, and the key factors you need to consider when deciding to fold a big hand.
The Other Side of The Coin - Hero Calling
Battling against tough players with the WPTDeepStacks Championship on the line also requires the ability to sniff out bluffs and stop aggressive opponents from stealing pots.
The most successful tournament players are constantly looking for opportunities to win uncontested pots without showdown and trying to run you over with aggression.
Poker legend and LearnWPT instructor Andrew “LuckyChewy” Lichtenberger is no stranger to high profile final tables with massive prize pools on the line.
Tune in as the $100K Buy-in WPT Alpha 8 Champion shows you his thought process to narrow opponent hand ranges and sort through the noise to make the correct call when it matters most.
Your Practice Partner? - The Best Poker Player in The World
Now that you have some expert strategies from the world’s best poker players in your toolbox, it’s time to train you new skills vs the perfect opponent.
Get ready to make a deep run in the WPTDeepStacks Championship by playing these 5 hands from the WPT GTO Trainer. Practice this spot where you are in the steal position as the chip leader vs a tough Big Blind and prepare for your time to shine LIVE on stream.
Your goal is to get as close to ZERO EV loss with each decision.
At the WPTDeepStacks final table you minraise from the Cutoff as the chip leader with a 70BB stack & the Big Blind with 50BBs calls
As you play, remember these tips:
- The Big Blind will likely call with a fairly wide range in this spot given direct pot odds
- The Big Blind will flat call with some big hands preflop due to ICM pressure, even as strong as pocket Kings
- You will be c-betting almost 100% when checked to using a smaller sizing
- The Big Blind will lead the flop with a portion of their range to counter your small c-betting strategy - be prepared to continue vs most leads
- Be cautious about building big pots with some stronger hands as the Big Blind’s range narrows significantly on later streets when they continue
P.S. After playing the hands get YOUR SCORE and learn the "why" behind the correct plays.
Need Some Final Table Tips?
Final Table Strategy can differ dramatically from the early stages of a tournament, especially with huge pay-jumps and the prestige that only comes with winning a World Poker Tour title. Often players are unprepared for the pressure that comes with playing in front of an audience and for potentially life-changing money at stake.
When you are facing the pressure of big pay jumps and the studio lights seem just a little too bright, it’s important to stay focused and make objective decisions.
Here are a few tips to help sharpen up your game for showtime!
- Be aware of stack sizes and pay jumps at all times, even the slightest changes in stack sizes can shift strategy dramatically
- When short stacks exist, there is extra pressure on the bigger stacks to avoid busting out
- The chip leaders can use this extra pressure to win many pots while the short stack is in play
- As a medium stack vs larger stacks be cautious with any bets and raises and try to take marginal hands to showdown passively
- Preflop ranges shift quite a bit at final tables due to this effect with big stacks playing much wider ranges and medium stacks much narrower ranges
- Do not be afraid to ramp up your aggression against players that are playing tight in the hopes of laddering up
The WPTDeepStacks Championship will feature a cards up live streamed final table on twitch.tv/worldpokertour,
Good Luck and Have FUN!
We hope you enjoyed these free strategies to prepare for the $2,500 WPTDeepStacks Championship at Thunder Valley Casino this December 4-7, 2021!
Be sure to let us know if you use these strategies to make a big score and don’t be afraid to share your success on twitter @WPTDeepStacks, @learnwpt and @wpt. and use the hashtag #WPTDEEPSTACKS.
We’ll see you on the stream, live from Thunder Valley Casino at twitch.tv/worldpokertour!
Good luck and good playing,
-LearnWPT
P.S. Looking for more poker tournament strategy tips from LearnWPT? Check out this collection of tips and tools.
Improve Your Game Today!
Join LearnWPT and Get:
- The WPT GTO Trainer to play real solved hands and get instant feedback on YOUR leaks (over 4 BILLION solved spots!)
- On-demand access to our full library of 500+ (and growing) in-depth Strategy Episodes from world-class players
- All of your poker questions answered with the Ask a Pro Feature
- Expert analysis from LearnWPT Pros using The Hand Input Tool
- Downloadable Tools you can use at and away from the tables
- Learn from a Team of world-class Professional Players and Instructors
To join (just $5 your 1st month) click the button below and start improving your game!
Have Questions about LearnWPT? Email us at [email protected].
2021 WPT Seminole Rock 'N' Roll Poker Open
The World Poker Tour returns to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, FL this November with the $3,500 WPT Seminole Rock 'N' Roll Poker Open Main Event. Join the massive field of poker players sure to flock to Florida this November as we prepare to crown a new WPT Champion!
The huge $2 Million Guaranteed prize pool is destined to attract a record-shattering number of players and a life-changing first prize (ICU Nurse Brek Schutten claimed $1.2 million and a WPT Title in May).
Think you have what it takes to navigate a tough tournament field and have your name etched on the Mike Sexton Champions Cup?
LearnWPT is here with expert strategy tips and fun ways to train to help get your game in shape. Scroll down for free Strategy Episodes and WPT GTO Trainer solutions to get you ready to crush the competition at the WPT Seminole Rock "N" Roll Poker Open 🏆.
Get In On The Action...
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL is welcoming players back to their amazing resort and tournament venue with a full festival of poker action starting on November 17th.
This action packed series is capped off with Day 1A of the WPT Main Tour Event on November 26th. Re-entry Format - Day 1B on November 27th - Click for more information.
📅 Main Event Schedule:
Day 1A: Friday, November 26, 2021 starting at 11 a.m. ET
Day 1B: Saturday, November 27, 2021 starting at 11 a.m. ET (unlimited re-entry available until the start of Level 9)
Day 2: Sunday, November 28, 2021 starting at 12 p.m. ET
Day 3: Monday, November 29, 2021 starting at 12 p.m. ET
Day 4: Tuesday, November 30, 2021 starting at 12 p.m. ET
Final Table: Wednesday, December 1, 2021 starting at 2 p.m. ET (final table will be live streamed with 30-min delay)
The super deep championship structure for this $3,500 event offers plenty of chances to outwit and outplay your opponents. Get ready to battle with the best and play for your share of the massive $2M Guaranteed prize pool.
In case the championship structure, $2M Guaranteed prize pool, and chance to have your name cemented in history as a WPT Champion isn’t enough, you’ll also get a chance to showcase your poker skills live on the World Poker Tour Twitch stream!
Check out this exciting sneak peak of the action from the live stream of last season's WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Final Table:
How Does a Pro Handle The Spotlight?
Making the correct plays at a final table when there are big pay jumps in play can be very challenging. Should you play super tight and only go in with the best hands, or ramp up the aggression and attempt to run over the table?
Watch this LearnWPT Strategy Episode as Instructor Nick Binger breaks down the action from the 2017 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Finale $10,000 Buy-in Event. Tune in as Nick walks you step by step through the thought process of world-class player Jason Koon as he open raises from the Button with a medium stack vs a tough defend from Terry Schumacher in the Big Blind.
How Would YOU Play This Same Spot?
Think you have what it takes to win the WPT Seminole Hard Rock 'N' Roll Poker Open and outwit a world-class Pro? It’s time to challenge the world’s perfect opponent - The WPT GTO Trainer!
Play these 5 hands to test your skills in the exact same scenario Jason found himself. The goal is to get as close to ZERO EV loss with each decision. Good luck...
At a Tournament Final Table you min-raise on the Button with a 30BB stack and the Big Blind with 50BBs calls.
Remaining Payouts (% of Prizepool): 1st = 20% | 2nd = 14% | 3rd = 9% | 4th = 6.7% | 5th = 5% | 6th = 4%
P.S. After playing the hands click the LEARN NOW button to learn the "why" behind the correct plays.
Let's Flip The Script ...
In the previous Strategy Episode Nick Binger walked you through the high-level decision making process used by Jason Koon with big money on the line at a WPT Final table vs a tough opponent in the Big Blind. Now, let's flip the script and take a dive deep into the perspective of Terry Schumacher in the Big Blind facing an open-raise from Jason on the Button.
Watch as Nick illustrates the key factors Terry Schumacher considers when defending the Big Blind vs a late position range and how techniques like floating are essential to combat Jason’s balanced multi-street barreling strategy.
Play It From the Big Blind
It’s now time to switch spots and see how you do as the defender vs the perfect opponent! Play these 5 hands to test your skills from the Big Blind vs the Button and see how close you can get to zero EV loss.
At a Final Table the Button min-raises with a 30BB stack and you call from the Big Blind with 50BBs.
Remaining Payouts (% of Prizepool): 1st = 20% | 2nd = 14% | 3rd = 9% | 4th = 6.7% | 5th = 5% | 6th = 4%
As you train remember:
- Opponents will be opening with a narrower range, especially from out of position
- Medium stacks (around 30BB) can be pressured with a wider raising ranges preflop, especially with many short stacks present
- Your check-calling range should include mostly hands you would want to take to showdown such as strong 1-pair hands
- If an Opponent bets out again on the turn beware, often this turn barreling range will be very narrow due to pay jump implications
- Your check-raising range should be polarized and include hands like second pair, big draws, some very strong hands, and complete air
- If you check the flop and your Opponent checks back, don’t be afraid to attack the turn with larger sizing with made hands and some draws
After playing be sure to click the LEARN NOW button to learn more strategy behind the correct plays.
Need Some Final Table Tips?
Final Table Strategy can differ dramatically from the early stages of a tournament, especially with huge pay-jumps and the prestige that only comes with winning a World Poker Tour title. Often players are unprepared for the pressure that comes with playing in front of an audience and how your decision making is affected with potentially life-changing money at stake.
While it's difficult to recreate the pressure of performing with the eyes of the world on you, you can start practicing now to succeed at the final table when it matters most.
Here are a few tips to help sharpen up your game for showtime!
- Be aware of stack sizes and pay jumps at all times, even the slightest changes in stack sizes can shift strategy dramatically
- When short stacks exist, there is extra pressure on the bigger stacks to avoid busting out
- The chip leaders can use this extra pressure to win many pots while the short stack is in play
- As a medium stack vs larger stack you should be cautious with any bets and raises and try to take marginal hands to showdown passively
- Preflop ranges shift quite a bit at final tables due to this effect with big stacks playing much wider ranges and medium stacks much narrower ranges
- Do not be afraid to ramp up your aggression against players that are playing tight in the hopes of laddering up
The WPT Seminole Rock 'N' Roll Poker Open will feature a cards up live streamed final table on twitch.tv/worldpokertour,
Good Luck and Have FUN!
Be sure to let us know how you do and don’t be afraid to share your success on Twitter @learnwpt and @wpt. Who knows, maybe we’ll see you at the final table, live on the stream at twitch.tv/wpt!
Good luck and good playing,
-LearnWPT
Improve Your Game Today!
Join LearnWPT and Get:
- The WPT GTO Trainer to play real solved hands and get instant feedback on YOUR leaks (over 4 BILLION solved spots!)
- On-demand access to our full library of 500+ (and growing) in-depth Strategy Episodes from world-class players
- All of your poker questions answered with the Ask a Pro Feature
- Expert analysis from LearnWPT Pros using The Hand Input Tool
- Downloadable Tools you can use at and away from the tables
- Learn from a Team of world-class Professional Players and Instructors
To join (just $5 your 1st month) click the button below and start improving your game!
Have Questions about LearnWPT? Email us at [email protected].
WPT Champion Darren Elias Launches “The End Boss” Poker Series- Powered by partypokerUS Network
Partypoker US ambassador and the four-time WPT champion Darren “End Boss” Elias collaborated closely with BetMGM to launch The End Boss Poker Series Main Event on the partypoker US Network in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Jersey this November.
This exciting poker tournament series will take place during the holiday week from November 23rd through 28th with guaranteed prize pools totaling more than $750,000 across all three states.
For more information about the End Boss Poker Series tournament schedules click below:
- Pennsylvania ($100K GTD): https://poker.pa.betmgm.com
- Michigan ($100K GTD): https://poker.mi.betmgm.com
- New Jersey ($150K GTD): https://poker.nj.betmgm.com
With all poker players in mind from beginners to professionals, poker legend Darren Elias developed a special tournament series to ensure that anyone could step up to try and become crowned the poker “End Boss” of their respective state.
Not only will the winners of the Main Event in each state receive their share of the huge prize pools and become an “End Bosses” of their state, they will also earn a FREE entry into the New Year Knockout Event!*
So many fantastic reasons to be thankful for poker this holiday season!
And as an added bonus…if you are lucky enough to eliminate The End Boss Darren Elias from the $150K GTD Main Event Tournament on November 28 in New Jersey, you will receive a FREE 3-day/2-night stay at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City. 🎸*
Time to get prepared for your chance to win all the amazing prizes!
Train → Play → Think Like a Pro!
Picture yourself as one of 6 remaining players at the Final Table of The End Boss Main Event. How do you protect your 30 Big Blind stack against Darren Elias who is the chip leader with two short stacks in play?
Click below to play a free Final Table Sample pack from the WPT GTO Trainer to see firsthand if you have what it takes to be The End Boss!
As you train remember to:
- Play in a way to avoid busting out to the chip leader
- You will check and call more often than bet or raise
- You still need some bluffs in your range to prevent the chip leader from exploiting you
- Almost never lead out from the Big Blind after calling preflop
- Don’t be afraid to fold marginal hands against big bets that could set up an all-in situation on a future street
- When facing an aggressive chip leader, you should often trap by check-calling with your big made hands
At The End Boss Final Table Darren Elias minraises from the Button as the chip leader with a 70BB stack and you call from the Big Blind with 30BBs.
Do your best to choose the ideal action at every point. Your goal is to keep "EV Loss" in the green and close to 0.
Check out this throwback to how “The End Boss” legend started, from the Season XIII WPT Borgata Poker Open $3,500 Championship
In Season XIII, Darren Elias won the fourth-largest WPT field in history to date at that time, beating a field of 1,226 entries to win $843,744 in first-place prize money with a prize pool of $3,924,426. Elias defeated Kane Kalas on the final hand of play, etching his name on the Mike Sexton Champion’s Cup for the first time. 🏆 Check out his winner’s interview below and witness the moment The End Boss was officially announced to the poker world. 👇
In a pivotal hand from this tough final table, Elias and Kalas both chased a flush draw. On the river, the two got it all-in on a 2♥️ K♥️ 5♣️ 8♥️10♣️ board, Kalas held 10♥️ 4♥️ but Elias played the hand masterfully and secured a big double up with Q♥️ 6♥️ and pave the way for victory. The massive cooler action at the final table in Season XIII is featured in the video below. 👇
Working Together For The Player
partypoker US Network and LearnWPT have joined forces to bring you FREE poker strategy and opportunities for training experiences!
For The Player is designed for all skill levels. Our goal is to help you learn poker strategy and have more fun playing the game you love.
Subscribe below to receive FREE poker strategy content, weekly quizzes, downloadable tools, and more.
Good luck and good playing!
-LearnWPT
*Players may participate in the End Boss Poker Series through either BetMGMPoker.com, or NJ.PartyPoker.com, and must physically be in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Michigan to register and play. Customers must be 21 years of age or older to play. See official rules for complete details. LearnWPT is not a gambling or real money gaming company and is not responsible for fulfillment of prizes or tournament prize pools.
New Jersey players, click on the button to register now!
Join WPTDeepStacks at Choctaw Durant!
Poker Oklahoma just got a little more exciting!
The newest addition to the WPTDeepStacks™ event schedule is coming to one of the favorite venues on the World Poker Tour schedule at Choctaw Casino & Resort in Durant, Oklahoma from October 27, 2021 – November 8, 2021.
The inaugural WPTDeepStacks event at Choctaw Casino & Resort – Durant features a $1,100 buy-in Main Event scheduled to run November 5th through November 8th.
“Poker players have always turned out in force for our WPT Main Tour stops in Choctaw,” said Cathy Zhao, Senior Director, Global Tour Management. “We’re excited to bring the WPTDeepStacks brand to the property and give poker players of all bankroll sizes the opportunity to experience the property and a first-class tournament product.”
Take your shot at the WPTDeepStacks Main Event and experience these other exciting perks!
- All players who finish in the money will receive WPTDeepStacks Player of the Year leaderboard points
- The player who finishes the season atop the leaderboard receives a $10,000 WPT Passport for any WPT live event
- Champion receives a custom trophy from the World Poker Tour
- The WPTDeepStacks Choctaw Main Event Champion also receives a $3,000 package for the season-ending WPTDeepStacks Championship
LearnWPT Instructors Tony Dunst and Katie Stone recently played the $3,700 buy-in WPT Main Tour Choctaw Event in Durant, OK and took a break from the action at the tables to reveal some of their strategy and review key hands played during their Day 1.
Playing a World Poker Tour Event is exciting! If you haven't tried your hand at a WPT Main Tour Event or a WPTDeepStacks Main Event, don’t worry we’ve got an exclusive first hand look at why these events are so special.
LearnWPT Instructor Katie Stone has been hard at work hitting tour stops and searching for her first WPT title, and she brought LearnWPT Members behind the scenes of her recent trip to Choctaw.
In this Strategy Episode Katie gives you a peek into the life of a tournament grinder, what it's like to play a big WPT event, and breaks her key hands from a weekend at WPT Choctaw.
LearnWPT Instructor and WPT Commentator Tony Dunst wrote a blog about his time at Choctaw playing the $3,700 Main Event and reflected on the event including some of the action from his table. Follow along as Tony tells you his thoughts in real-time and see how a WPT Champion plays their cards in a World Poker Tour Main Event.
Discover more about Tony Dunst and Katie Stone and how they can help improve your poker game. And make sure and be sure to say hello to them (or any of the LearnWPT Pros) at the next WPT Event!
If you are playing the $1,100 WPTDeepStacks Main Event at Choctaw we want to hear from YOU! Tell us how you played and tag us on twitter @wpt, @wptdeepstacks and @learnwpt to share your success!
Good luck and good playing,
-LearnWPT
Improve Your Game Today!
Join LearnWPT and Get:
- The WPT GTO Trainer to play real solved hands and get instant feedback on YOUR leaks (over 4 BILLION solved spots!)
- On-demand access to our full library of 500+ (and growing) in-depth Strategy Episodes from world-class players
- All of your poker questions answered with the Ask a Pro Feature
- Expert analysis from LearnWPT Pros using The Hand Input Tool
- Downloadable Tools you can use at and away from the tables
- Learn from a Team of world-class Professional Players and Instructors
To join (just $5 your 1st month) click the button below and start improving your game!
Have Questions about LearnWPT? Email us at [email protected].
PKO Poker Strategy Guide For Playing the partypoker US Network Online Series!
Your friends at partypoker US Network are back with another exciting poker tournament series in Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania this October.
We know this time of year is usually full of ghosts, goblins and candy and we assure you that there are no tricks involved - just exciting poker tournaments with big guaranteed prize pools.
The action starts in New Jersey on October 17th featuring a week long online poker tournament festival with a $535 buy-in $50,000 Guaranteed Progressive Knockout Main Event on Sunday October 24th at 5pm Eastern. Not familiar with PKO poker strategy? We’ve got you covered with a quick strategy primer that will haunt your opponents so be sure to check it out below.
Michigan and Pennsylvania join the party with their very own Online Series schedules starting on Sunday October 24th and ending on Sunday, October 31st with a $1060 buy-in $50,000 Guaranteed 8-Max Main Event. Make sure you check out our tips for playing on the big stage below so you don’t get bewitched by bad play.
So no matter where you choose to play this October, treat yourself to a sweet schedule featuring $50,000 Guaranteed Main Events and enjoy the exciting online poker tournament series from partypoker US network. Who knows, maybe you’ll be one of the 3 Musketeers who emerge victorious as an Online Series Main Event Champion (okay, we know that one was a stretch, please don’t Boooo us 👻).
For more information about the October Online Series poker tournament schedules click below:
As a treat to you, For The Player is here with expert tournament strategy and helpful tips to help you have more fun and carve up the competition this October.
What Is A PKO Tournament?
- PKO (Progressive Knockout) tournaments are fun, unique events where a dynamic bounty is placed on each player
- As you knock out other players, typically you are paid 50% of their bounty and the other 50% is added to your total bounty
- Unlike regular knockout tournaments the value of the bounties can grow
- If you are the victor in a PKO Tourney you win in multiple ways:
- Win the amount in the general prize pool for 1st place
- Win the bounties you earned over the course of the event
- Keep the full amount of the bounty that is on your head
Do I Need a Separate Strategy for PKOs?
Yes! The strategy for playing PKOs is very different from regular bounty tournament strategy.
Click below to view an in-depth Strategy Episode from LearnWPT Instructor Nick Binger to learn valuable math shortcuts and strategy tips to improve your play in PKO events.
Remembers these tips when playing in a PKO Tournament:
- Because bounty values change based on each player's number of knockouts, some players are worth much more than others to knock out
- Players are incentivized to widen their ranges and go after opponents when they have a high bounty value
- Starting PKO Tournaments on time and avoiding late registration is critical to maximize your chances of winning the most bounties
- It's often profitable to call with any 2 cards in PKO Tournaments when your opponent's bounty value is high
- This style of tournament has become extremely popular over the last year because it encourages so much action!
- Download the PKO Equity Reduction Reference Guide for an easy and quick way to determine your equity in PKO Tournaments
Online Tournament Play with Vanessa Selbst
LearnWPT Instructor and all time poker great Vanessa Selbst is here to break down key lessons from the $535 Online Series PKO Main Event in New Jersey.
If the idea of getting aggressive at the poker table gives you nightmares, this is your chance to learn how to keep opponents on their heels and win more pots.
Study Like the Pros with LuckyChewy and Katie Stone
LearnWPT Instructor and partypoker US Network Team Pro Katie Stone is no stranger to the high pressure and big money decisions that come with making big buy-in final tables.
In this Strategy Episode, Katie joins LearnWPT Instructor Andrew “LuckyChewy” Lichtenberger to show you how professional poker players rely on each other for advice as they break down hands from Katie’s 2nd place in the $1060 Online Series Main Event.
Train → Play → Think Like a Pro!
Click below to play a free Sample pack from the WPT GTO Trainer to brush up on your play from out of position with a 30BB stack vs a tough opponent.
Keep these tips in mind when playing the hands:
- The Cutoff’s calling range will be more narrow given stack sizes
- Against weaker opponents you can c-bet at a high frequency with smaller bet sizing
- You will c-bet less often on coordinated boards vs tough players
- Use a larger c-bet sizing on scattered or dry boards
- Balance your flop checking range to include some big hands
- Don’t go on autopilot and bet simply because you were the initial raiser, focus on board texture
- Although the Cutoff’s range is capped to not include big hands like AA/KK, they will have an equity advantage on most flops
In a Tournament with 30 big blind stacks, you open raise to 2BBs from Middle Position, and the Cutoff player calls.
Do your best to choose the ideal action at every point. Your goal is to keep "EV Loss" in the green and close to 0.
P.S. After you’ve finished playing the hands click the LEARN NOW button for simple strategy on how to play this scenario profitably.
Working Together For The Player
partypoker US Network and LearnWPT have joined forces to bring you FREE poker strategy and opportunities for training experiences!
For The Player is designed for all skill levels. Our goal is to help you learn poker strategy and have more fun playing the game you love.
Subscribe below to receive FREE poker strategy content, weekly quizzes, downloadable tools, and more.
Good luck and good playing!
-LearnWPT
*Players may participate in the Online Series through either BorgataPoker.com, BetMGMPoker.com or NJ.PartyPoker.com, and must physically be in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Michigan to register and play in the series. Customers must be 21 years of age or older to play. See official rules for complete details.
Have Questions about LearnWPT? Send an email to our Support Team at [email protected] or click the red CONTACT US button and they will be happy to help!
TRAIN - PLAY - THINK
LIKE A PRO
2021 WPT Online Borgata Poker Open Main Event Powered by partypoker US Network
Watch as LearnWPT Instructor and partypoker US Network Team Pro Katie Stone and World Poker Tour Executive Tour Director Matt Savage sit down to talk about their upcoming Day 1 starts of the WPT Online Borgata Poker Open $1Million GTD Main Event, being back at the Borgata in New Jersey, online poker, record breaking satellites, and more!
The Main Event is an unlimited re-entry tournament through the first 14 levels with Day 1 ending after level 16. The action begins today, September 19th at 5 pm ET.
Players in New Jersey can register by clicking the links below:
➥ Visit BetMGM NJ
➥ Visit Borgata Poker NJ
➥ Visit partypoker NJ
We Have a New WPT Champion!
Orson “Borgatcha” Young gets his name etched on the Mike Sexton Champions Cup and wins the WPT Online Borgata Poker Open powered by partypoker US Network Main Event for $195,748 🏆🎉
CONGRATULATIONS to the Final Table 👏
- 🏆 Orson Young (Borgatcha) - $195,748
- justliberto - $135,930
- Dan Buzgon (leinad) - $102,933
- FitzroidPoo - $76,830
- betbetbet - $61,070
- CNC_LY - $47,280
- Ryan Hohner (TheSims) - $34,475
- DoURespectWood - $24,625
Watch the full Final Table replay of the WPT Online Borgata Open Main Event powered by partypoker US Network here ▶️ https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1155517702
Scroll below for key tips to from the LearnWPT Pros for succeeding in satellite tournaments and Final Table strategy...
Make Online Poker History This September!
The WPT Online Borgata Poker Open powered by partypoker US Network happens exclusively in New Jersey this September 19th. Don’t miss your chance to compete on the virtual felt in the second-ever WPT US Online Main Tour Event and etch your name on the Mike Sexton Champions Cup!
📅 Main Event Schedule:
Day 1: Sunday, September 19, 2021 starting at 5 p.m. ET
Day 2: Monday, September 20, 2021 starting at 7 p.m. ET
Day 3: Tuesday, September 21, 2021 starting at 7 p.m. ET
This $3500 event offers unlimited reentry, registration through level 14, and boasts a super deep structure so you’ll have plenty of chances to outwit and outplay your opponents. All players in the event are eligible for valuable WPT Player of The Year Points and will be battling for the lion’s share of the massive $1M Guaranteed prize pool.
In case the championship structure, $1M Guaranteed prize pool, and chance to have your name cemented in history as only the second-ever WPT US Online Main Tour event champion isn’t enough, you’ll also get a chance to showcase your poker skills live on stream!
Check out this action from the live stream of the first WPT US Online Main Tour Event....
The final table will be live streamed on Tuesday, September 21st starting at 8 p.m. Eastern with expert commentary from WPT Executive Tour Director Matt Savage and Team LearnWPT on twitch.tv/worldpokertour and the BetMGM YouTube channel.
P.S. Click the Follow button to receive alerts when the action is online.
Watch the full Final Table replay of the WPT Online Borgata Open Main Event powered by partypoker US Network here ▶️ https://www.twitch.tv/videos/1155517702
How To Get Into The Action...
Simply make sure you are physically located in the state of New Jersey on Sunday, September 19th and have your favorite internet connected device ready.
Choose any one of the three state of the art poker platforms on partypoker US Network (see below for links), download and set up your account to get started. In a few simple steps you’ll be ready to play the WPT Online Borgata Poker Open!
Will you join Soheb Porbandarwala as the only other US Online Main Tour Event winner in WPT History?
Satellite To The Main Event Starting at Just $5!
partypoker US Network is making it easier than ever to satellite your way into the WPT Online Borgata Poker Open.
Daily qualifiers begin Sunday August 29th, and with buy-ins starting at just $5 you can parlay a small investment into a history-making haul in the $3,500 Main Event.
Click to view the detailed Satellite* and Festival Schedule: WPT Online Borgata Poker Open - Schedule for August-September 2021
To get you started on the path to winning your seat to the WPT Online Borgata Poker Open, here are some key tips to from the LearnWPT Pros for succeeding in satellite tournaments ...
Improve Your Satellite Play!
Satellites are a great way to play a larger buy-in event at a lower price. So you don’t need to have big bucks to be in contention for a game-changing score. For The Player is here to help increase your edge with key adjustments for satellite play.
Use the strategies below to sharpen your focus and who knows, maybe you’ll turn a few bucks into a huge payday (and a coveted spot on the Mike Sexton Champions Cup).
Should I Play a 🛰️ Satellite Differently?
Yes you should! Approaching Satellite play with the same strategy used in regular tournament play will often result in you busting when you would otherwise have a seat to the target tournament locked up.
Watch this Strategy Episode from LearnWPT Lead Instructor Nick Binger as he discusses the key strategic adjustments you need to make when playing Satellite Tournaments.
What Are Keys 🗝️ to Satellite Play?
- Everyone gets paid the same prize
- No incentive to build a large stack once you are likely to win a seat
- As probability to win a seat goes up, your ranges in all spots tighten up
- There are times in satellites when players should never continue against an all-in
- Satellites are the only form of poker where it can be correct to fold AA preflop
- Pay very close attention to stack sizes and level changes
- Often in the satellite endgame 10BBs may be a big stack that is guaranteed to win a seat
Need Help Closing The Deal?
Watch and learn as Nick reviews several key hands from a Satellite to highlight the unique strategic adjustments during the endgame.
Get your mental game in shape with LearnWPT Mental Game Coach Jared Tendler as he provides you with a game-plan for handling the pressure and prepares you for success in the WPT Online Borgata Poker Open .
Time to Practice Your Skills!
In a Satellite with 11 Players Left, How Do You Play It?
In a satellite where blinds are 900/1,800 with a 1,800 big blind ante there are 11 players remaining with 6 players winning a $7,200 main event seat. Places 7-10 get $1050 in cash and 11th gets $100.
You are currently in 6th chip position with 11 players remaining. The Cutoff (who is the short stack at the table) moves all-in for 28,400. Action folds around to you in the Big Blind with A♥K♦ and 28,000 behind. What do you do here?
Select your answer & see how the LearnWPT Pros would play it!
Are YOU Final Table Ready?
Now that you’ve got an upgrade on satellite play to help secure your seat to the WPT Online Borgata Poker Open, it’s time to start sharpening up your game for showtime!
The WPT Online Borgata Poker Open powered by partypoker US Network features a cards up live streamed final table with WPT Executive Tour Director Matt Savage and Team LearnWPT live on twitch.tv/worldpokertour and the BetMGM youtube channel.
With big money on the line and the chance to go down in poker history as the second-ever WPT Online Main Tour Event winner, this event is a can’t miss for Players on partypoker US Network in New Jersey.
We’re here to set you up for success and ready to make your “one time” count with these final table strategies!
What Are Keys to Final Table Play?
- Be aware of stack sizes and pay jumps
- When short stacks exist, there is extra pressure on the bigger stacks to avoid busting out
- The chip leaders can use this extra pressure to win many pots while the short stack is in play
- Preflop ranges shift quite a bit at final tables due to this effect with big stacks playing much wider ranges and medium stacks much narrower ranges
- Do not be afraid to ramp up your aggression against players that are playing tightly in the hopes of laddering up
Should I Play a Final Table Differently?
Final Table Strategy can differ dramatically from the early stages of a tournament, especially with huge pay jumps on the line.
Often players are unprepared for the pressure that comes with playing in front of an audience or for big money and don’t always perform as they should.
Watch this LearnWPT Strategy Episode from LearnWPT Instructor and WPT Commentator Tony Dunst for key insights on how the Pros perform on the big stage.
How Does a Pro Handle The Spotlight?
Team LearnWPT is no stranger to the bright lights and big money pressure of live stream online final tables.
Check out this Strategy Episode from partypoker US Network Team Pro and LearnWPT Instructor Mike “Gags30” Gagliano as he breaks down key hands from his recent deep run in the Online Borgata Poker Open, including a gutsy river bluff attempt with absolute air.
One of the best ways to improve your game is to share strategies and lessons learned from experience with fellow players.
In this Strategy Episode from LearnWPT we join partypoker US Network Team Pro and LearnWPT Instructor Katie Stone as she breaks down hands from her recent live stream final table appearance in the partypoker US Network Online Series $1060 Main Event.
Tune in as Katie joins fellow LearnWPT Instructor Andrew “LuckyChewy” Lichtenberger as they team up to talk strategy and share valuable insight.
Think You Have What It Takes?
Think you have what it takes to take down the championship and outwit a world-class Pro? It’s time to challenge the world’s perfect opponent - The WPT GTO Trainer!
Play these 5 hands to test your skills and learn the exact move to make. Remember, the goal is to get as close to ZERO EV loss with each decision. Good luck...
At a Final Table the Button minraises with a 30BB stack. You are the chip leader with 70BBs and call from the Big Blind.
Remaining Payouts (% of Prizepool): 1st = 20% | 2nd = 14% | 3rd = 9% | 4th = 6.7% | 5th = 5% | 6th = 4%
As you train remember:
- Opponents will be opening with a narrower range, especially from out of position
- Medium stacks (around 30BB) can be pressured with a wider raising ranges preflop, especially with many short stacks at the table
- Your check-calling range should include mostly hands you would want to take to showdown such as strong 1-pair hands
- If an Opponent bets out again on the turn beware, often this turn barreling range will be very narrow due to pay jump implications
- Your check-raising range should be polarized and include hands like second pair, big draws, some very strong hands, and complete air
- If you check the flop and the Opponent checks back, don’t be afraid to attack the turn with larger sizing with made hands and some draws
Do your best to choose the ideal action at every point. Your goal is to keep "EV Loss" in the green and close to 0.
P.S. After playing the five hands click the button to learn the "why" behind the correct plays.
Good Luck and Have FUN!
We hope you enjoyed these free strategies to prepare for the WPT Online Borgata Poker Open powered by partypoker US Network in New Jersey this September 19th.
Be sure to let us know if you turn $5 into a game changing payday and don’t be afraid to share your success on twitter @partypokerUS, @learnwpt, @wpt and use the hashtag #WPTONLINE.
We’ll see you on the stream, live from New Jersey on partypoker US Network!
Working Together For The Player!
The partypoker US Network and LearnWPT have joined forces to bring you FOR THE PLAYER to provide FREE poker content and easy to implement strategies and shortcuts to help YOU have fun learning and start playing better poker.
Click here to learn more about For The Player.
We are here to help you get to the final table and take down the championship and these strategies will help get you there.
Good luck and good playing!
-LearnWPT
TRAIN - PLAY - THINK
LIKE A PRO
Have Questions about LearnWPT? Send an email to our Support Team at [email protected] or click the red Contact Us button and they will be happy to help!
*All unused entries will be forfeited. If you already have won a promotional or satellite seat, only participate in additional satellites if you plan on using all tickets. Unused tickets will have no value.
Participation in WPT tournaments is subject to rules and rulings set forth by the applicable venue(s) and/or WPT (e.g., tournament rules, sponsorships).
All players at WPT events are solely responsible for retrieving their winnings from the host casino or poker room and the payment of any taxes or fees on such winnings requested by the host casino or poker room. Any question or dispute regarding winnings at a WPT event should be brought up directly with the host casino or poker room, which has sole responsibility therefore.
WPT is not a real-money online gaming operator. For rules and regulations in connection with WPT-branded online events, including player eligibility, please consult the website of the applicable real-money gaming operator.
WPT is not responsible for any tournament event details including, without limitation, structures, schedules, formats, general rules or prize pool distributions. Management reserves the right to change tournament dates or suspend or cancel tournaments, in whole or part, without notice for any reason at any time.WPT is not responsible for any tournament event details including, without limitation, structures, schedules, formats, general rules or prize pool distributions. Management reserves the right to change tournament dates or suspend or cancel tournaments, in whole or part, without notice for any reason at any time.
Train & Explain: A Brand-New Way to Train!
We are so excited to introduce the new Train & Explain Episode Series that WE ARE GIVING YOU FREE ACCESS
Members of LearnWPT know the importance of drilling hands using the WPT GTO Trainer and setting up a feedback loop for their game.
With the new transformational Train & Explain Episodes we've combined these two key factors to make learning GTO Strategy fast and easy regardless of your skill level!
Train & Explain Strategy Episodes gives you an exclusive seat behind a LearnWPT Pro for 5 select hands from the WPT GTO Trainer to learn the "why" behind each decision.
And we've added an innovative twist: you'll play the same hands as the LearnWPT Pro for each Episode.
Here’s how it works....
Before the start of each Train & Explain Strategy Episode, you'll be provided a link to an exclusive 5 hand pack from the WPT GTO Trainer to play before watching the analysis.
Select the "Click to Play the Hands Before You Watch" button noted within the video to play the 5 hands.
Next, watch the Strategy Episode for a detailed breakdown of each decision point as LearnWPT Lead Instructor Nick Binger (and coming soon from Vanessa Selbst, LuckyChewy, and Tony Dunst!) analyze the same hands you just played.
Hint: After playing the 5 selected hands click the red WATCH NOW button to view the Strategy Episode and go directly to the Pro analysis.
LearnWPT Members can ask questions follow-up questions about a specific decision point or how a hand was played by using the Ask a Pro Feature or Community!
Now it's time for YOU to give it a try....
With our new Train & Explain style of Trainer Pack and Episode, we've created the best way to improve your game in under 20 minutes!
Keep on practicing,
-LearnWPT
P.S. Play unlimited hands from the WPT GTO Trainer Scenario featured in this Episode with a $5 First Month Member. Click here to learn more about our Membership Tiers.
[FREE VIDEO] Tony Dunst $100 Buy-In Large Field Online MTT
Watch This FREE Strategy Episode From LearnWPT Instructor Tony Dunst!
LearnWPT Instructor Tony Dunst has been a model of consistency on the live poker scene, including most recently his deep run in the 2019 WPT Tournament of Champions.
Tony's online poker resume is no exception and we're excited to share this in-depth look at a recent deep run in a 1,000+ person online tournament.
Tune in as Tony shares his thought process as he navigates unknown opponents at the Final Table and identifies key adjustments for managing pay jumps and applying pressure to less-skilled opponents.
This video is part of the LearnWPT Exclusive On Tour with Tony Dunst Strategy Episode series. Join Tony for a behind the scenes look into the most thought provoking hands he plays from real WPT events and teaches strategies and concepts you can use in your game.
Click here to learn more about Tony's extensive poker accomplishments and more importantly, how he can help improve your game.
Ready for more? Join LearnWPT for just $5 your first month of Membership and get full access to more content from Tony Dunst.
We'll see you online,
-LearnWPT
Improve Your Game Today!
Join LearnWPT and Get:
- The WPT GTO Trainer to play real solved hands and get instant feedback on YOUR leaks (over 4 BILLION solved spots!)
- On-demand access to our full library of 500+ (and growing) in-depth Strategy Episodes from world-class players
- All of your poker questions answered with the Ask a Pro Feature
- Expert analysis from LearnWPT Pros using The Hand Input Tool
- Downloadable Tools you can use at and away from the tables
- Learn from a Team of world-class Professional Players and Instructors
To join (just $5 your 1st month) click the button below and start improving your game!
Have Questions about LearnWPT? Email us at [email protected].
LearnWPT's Foundations of No-Limit Texas Hold’em
Watch This Video for the Foundations of No-Limit Texas Hold'em & Get Free Poker Strategy
If you are eager to learn the Foundations of No-Limit Texas Hold'em, one of the most popular and exciting card games in the world, then this beginner's article guide is the perfect place for you.
And if you are new to the game but not sure where to start, don't worry LearnWPT is here to help.
In the video above we covered some basic things a new poker player needs to know in order to play the game. LearnWPT Lead Instructor Nick Binger shows you the Foundations of No-Limit Texas Hold’em:
- Poker hand rankings
- Tips for proper betting
- Handling cards
- Key strategies for selecting which hands to play at the start of each hand
Plus get FREE downloadable tools below!
FIRST-IN HAND RANGE CHARTS
FOUNDATIONS OF NO-LIMIT TEXAS HOLD’EM
First-In Hand Range charts are an amazing poker tool to help you quickly learn the Foundations of No-Limit Texas Hold’em. This tool will tell you what hands to play when you are the first person to put money into the pot at the poker table. They'll keep you on very solid, profitable ground and ensure that you aren't playing bad poker hands!
Download your FREE copy of first-in hand range charts here
Here are some tips for using them at the table:
- Use the Position Graphic at the beginning to determine your position at the table and reference the appropriate chart for your seat. Always count backwards from the Button ("dealer button") to determine your position
- You should raise with all hands highlighted in PINK. Do not call the minimum bet amount - RAISE!
- Your raise sizing should be 3 times the big blind amount. For example if blinds are 100-200 in a tournament and you elect to raise first-in to the pot, your total bet amount should be 600
- Stay consistent with your raise sizing. If you raise a larger amount with a specific hand and smaller amounts with others, you will be easier to read at the table (IE don't raise to 600 with AA, but 400 with 99)
Remember, these charts are intended for use when you are the first person to put chips in the pot before the flop aside from the blinds (forced bets). If someone else has already voluntarily put chips in the pot before your turn to act, these charts do not apply.
THE 5 KEY 🔑FACTORS
FOUNDATIONS OF NO-LIMIT TEXAS HOLD’EM
When you join LearnWPT.com for just $5 your first month we'll teach you the 5 Key Factors every player needs to know to put your opponents on accurate hand ranges!
- Position
- Range
- Stack Depth
- Board Texture
- Number of Opponents
When you start playing, no matter if it is a cash game, online poker tournament or the biggest live poker event, understanding the fundamentals of No-Limit Texas Hold’em will help you elevate your skills toward becoming a professional poker player.
Check out this preview of the Episodes you'll receive as part of your $5 First Month Membership introducing the 5 Key Factors...
PRO TIP: To build mental muscle memory for these tasks in real-time, focus on the 5 Key Factors even when you are NOT in the hand.
TRACK YOUR PLAY TO BUILD A STUDY ROUTINE
If you want to learn No-Limit Texas Hold’em poker strategy and start seeing better results at the table, the first step is to write down the specifics of what happens in hands when you are faced with difficult decisions.
Poker software programs that capture hand histories and allow users to control replays such as LearnWPT’s Hand Input Tool, offer an easy way to enter hands with your favorite internet-connected device.
When just beginning to study poker it’s often most beneficial to start tracking your play simply using a pen and paper. It is important to make sure you are tracking the right factors when noting hands for poker strategy study so that you can develop a consistent process and measure your progress.
Here is a simple checklist of 8 questions to use when tracking your play for poker strategy analysis:
- ☐ What was my seat position at the table?
- ☐ What were the seat positions of my opponents?
- ☐ What was my chip stack to start the hand?
- ☐ What were the chip stacks of my opponents to start the hand?
- ☐ What were my 2 cards, specific rank and suit?
- ☐ What were the community cards, specific rank and suit?
- ☐ What were the specific actions in the hand? Which player opened the betting?
- ☐ Did my opponents show down their hand, if so what were the specific cards?
Use this checklist to review your play on a regular basis and you will start to see patterns that can be adjusted to increase your win rate. It is very important to remember that the result of any given hand does not matter when studying poker hands to try and improve your game.
Focus your study on trying to determine what actions your opponent would take with all types of hands they could have in a specific spot and avoid trying to pinpoint a single hand.
NEXT STEPS
We created LearnWPT to make it as easy as possible for anyone to improve their poker game, on their own time and their own terms. A plan for improvement that includes small, consistent amounts of effort over time is the key factor that most often separates winning pros and students of the game from the average poker player.
Ready to continue learning the Foundations of No-Limit Texas Hold’em Strategy and become a better player?
Enter your email in the box below or visit LearnWPT.com and click the green PLAY NOW button to immediately gain access to Free Poker Strategy Content and Tools (including Full LearnWPT Strategy Episodes)
PLUS Receive free poker strategy emails to your inbox each week.
No matter how you choose to use LearnWPT.com there’s a path for you to learn, improve, and have fun on your own time and your own terms.
I am honored to be your guide on this journey and appreciate your support of LearnWPT!
Nick Binger
Lead Instructor, LearnWPT
TRAIN - PLAY - THINK
LIKE A PRO
Have Questions about LearnWPT? Send an email to our Support Team at [email protected] or click the red CONTACT US button and they will be happy to help!