From Shot Takers to Survivors: $1M Paydays Are a Dream Scenario

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot.

Nothing but net.

The Calhoun Shot, as its now known, was, essentially, a million-dollar freeroll. No harm if he missed, an overnight millionaire if he hit ā€“ and Don cashed in.

This December, the World Poker Tour is bringing that same energy to the WPT World Championship at Wynn Las Vegas in the form of the largest freeroll in poker history ā€“ a $5,000,000 freeroll to kick-off and help promote WPTs latest online poker offering: ClubWPT Gold.

Two thousand poker players are going to win a seat into this massive giveaway, and like Don Calhoun, one of them will walk away with a first-place prize of $1,000,000.

These couples have all become instant millionaires on the richest game in television

That was the intro on the 1986 game show ā€˜The $1,000,000 Chance of a Lifetime, the first game show credited with offering a million-dollar top prize. The little-known, short-lived show pitted couples against each other in a series of reverse Wheel of Fortune word puzzles where if they won three episodes in a row, including tougher bonus rounds, they took home $1 million. Chance of a Lifetime didnt last long, just two seasons where nine couples walked with a million.

More than a decade later, in August of 1999, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire aired in the United States every day for two weeks. The allure of regular people answering trivia questions in an effort to climb the money ladder to reach the million-dollar question drew roughly 30 million viewers a night. It was 25 years ago that John Carpenter, a 31-year-old IRS agent, was the first to win the show becoming the biggest money winner in television history famously using his phone-a-friend lifeline to call his parents and telling them live on-air that he was about to win the million.

Despite it being a hell of a lot of money, Carpenter kept his job but admitted to People Magazine that the money makes it easier to focus on family.

Right on the heels of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, reality TV royalty Survivor premiered in May of 2000. The first reality show to offer a one million dollar first-place prize has become not just a cultural touchstone but helped usher in a new era where both game and reality competitions would separate themselves as high-stakes by offering the $1,000,000 top prize.

Survivor pushed the boundaries for what contestants would be willing to go through to win a million. More than word puzzles or trivia, these players were given the Castaway treatment seemingly left to fend for themselves on an island.

What was true then, remains true ā€“ people will do a lot to get a shot at a million. Cite inflation all youd like, becoming a millionaire still means something and its a figure that, for many, remains life-changing. At the very least, its financial security and for poker players specifically ā€“ an incredible bankroll boost.

Case in point is Survivor: Blood vs. Water winner, and frequent poker player, Tyson Apostol who in his third attempt on the show outwitted, outplayed, and outlasted the competition to score his found million-dollar payday.

I will probably try to wisely invest it and make it last as long as possible so that I can kick back at bit, Apostol told Entertainment Weekly after his win. I don;t care about fancy cars, maybe a bicycle. Im more of a bicycle guy than a car guy. The only reason I would buy a car is to make my car guy friends jealous.

Whether its spending more than a month on an island in the Philippines or having an endless well of trivia knowledge to call upon, winning a million rarely comes easy. Mark Pate took on a challenge from YouTuber Jimmy Mr. Beast Donaldson in which he stood for nearly 48 hours with his hand on a glass cube filled with cash, outlasting three other competitors in the video entitled ā€œLast To Take Hand Off $1,000,000 Keeps It.ā€ Shortly thereafter, Pate was charged by Mr. Beast to spend as much of it as he could in 24 hours.

Im very grateful, Pate said on camera. Like highly humble and grateful about this whole entire thing. I have never experienced anything like this in my life.

In the subsequent video Pate could be seen splurging on electronics for himself and his extended family, buying a new ring for his wife, getting two new cars, and even a new house.

Today, even though those million-dollar prizes are more common on TV, they remain the gold standard figure for generating eye-popping excitement over a project even as reality competitions like Deal or No Deal Island and game shows like The Wall are pushing prizes to new heights.

In a sense, setting a new bar is also what is taking place in poker at the WPT World Championship at the Wynn this December. Its a record-setting, poker-history-making $5 million freeroll where the winner will take home seven figures. Add to that 100 seats to the $10K buy-in WPT World Championship are scheduled to be given away, offering those who land a seat a second shot at a seven-figure payday.

Chances like this donā€™t come around very often and itll likely be the closest chance any of those who win a Golden Passport will come to having a ā€œCalhoun Shotā€ of their own and a chance at becoming an overnight millionaire.

FAQ

Can you win real money at WPT Global?

Can you win real money at WPT Global?

Yes, you can win real money at WPT Global. WPT Global also offer the chance to win seats in any number of exciting live tournaments.

How many decks are used in poker?

how many decks are used in poker?

In most popular poker variants, such as Texas Hold’em and Omaha, a standard deck of 52 playing cards is used. Each deck contains four suits (hearts, diamonds, clubs, and spades) and consists of 13 ranks (Ace, 2 through 10, and the face cards: Jack, Queen, and King).

However, it’s important to note that the number of decks used in poker can vary depending on the specific game or variation being played. For example, some poker tournaments or cash games may use multiple decks to speed up the gameplay or reduce the frequency of card shuffling. In such cases, it is common to use two or more decks that are shuffled together.

What is the bonus code for WPT Global Poker 2023?

What is the bonus code for WPT Global Poker 2023?

We’ll save you time. The best bonus code for WPT Global is WPT777. By entering the bonus code, players will get a welcome bonus 100% up to $1,200 on the first deposit. The minimum deposit is $20.

What is the best WPT Global bonus code?

What is the best World Poker Tour bonus code?

Use the WPT Global bonus code WPT777 when registering to get a 100% deposit bonus up to $1200 plus a $100 No Deposit poker bonus.

What is the WPT bonus code?

What is the WPT bonus code?

The WPT bonus code is WPT777. Use this code at WPTglobal.com to get up to $1200 poker bonus. This code has been approved by WPT Global and gives new users the maximum new user offer.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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In April 1993, a then 23-year-old office supply salesman was plucked form the audience at halftime of a Michael Jordan-era Chicago Bulls game and given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If he could make a 75-foot basket from across the court he could win $1 million dollars. So, from the foul line at the opposite end of the court Don Calhoun took the ball, loaded up, and took his shot. Nothing but net.

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