Poker: Poker Games Becoming A Huge Hit In Tulsa

Published on Friday, November 26, 2004 11:37:00 AM

These days, it seems poker is more popular than ever before. Right now, 'Texas Hold'em' is the game of choice. Thanks to programs like ESPN's World Series of Poker, the average guy can see exactly how the pros play. Special cameras let you see a player's hidden cards, so you know who is bluffing and who really has the best hand. It's information that a lot of people are putting to use. Right here in Tulsa, it's a safe bet that if you aren't playing, you know someone who is putting their money on the line and going 'all in'.

"To tell you the truth, it's just addicting."

"I like to win, and I like to win money."

Brian Vickers has a game like this with his friends every week. And he's certainly not alone. Some research shows that between 50 and 80 million Americans play the game. And, you don't have to know someone to get into a game. Just go online and you can find a money game or even promote your own. Time, place, house rules, it's all there. But, these home games aren't the only place to make a few bucks.

"I'm on the computer probably two or three hours playing online," Vickers says.

This is Brian's office. And everyday, this is how this college student pays the bills.

"Right now, I make maybe a few hundred a week at this and it's enough to get by on right now."

And you can find plenty of competition online. During peak times on one site, you can find more than 50-thousand people playing at more than five thousand tables.

"With thousands of people, you're probably never going to play against the same person twice."

KTUL has the full story. Click here.