Month: April 2023

Welcome to our guide on Keno tips that will help you dominate the game! 

Keno is a popular lottery-style game that is enjoyed by many players worldwide. While it may seem like a game of luck, there are certain strategies and tips that you can use to increase your chances of winning. 

In this article, we will be sharing with you some expert Keno tips that will help you improve your gameplay, increase your odds of winning, and, ultimately, dominate the game.

Stop Chasing the Perfect 20

Chasing that perfect 20 and winning big will only drive you mad. Yes, keno is the least popular casino game with most gamblers because it is practically a game of luck.

True, the 20/20 card can make you become a multimillionaire just by shelling out P100. However, the odds of hitting that massive jackpot are not just one in a million, but 12 billion times! The combination reached quintillions, and that should give you a gist that winning the jackpot is like finding a needle in the haystack.

One of the Keno tips we impart is to STOP wasting your time aiming to hit that perfect 20 card. 

Learn the Odds

In every casino game, odds vary, and Keno is no exception. Depending on how many numbers are played, the odds will respond with fluctuation.

In most casinos, keno bets will have a payout of P50,000 for a P50-ticket. But most keno players will only see the payout rather than the risk.

While it is true that getting 10/10 or 9/9 will win you an instant P50,000, the odds are much higher compared to hitting an 8/8. Here is the breakdown for the odds:

• 10 of 10 = 1 in 8,911,711
• 9 of 9 = 1 in 1,380,688
• 8 of 8 = 1 in 230,114

Taking note of the odds above, having a perfect eight card has six times the chance compared to hitting a perfect nine, while getting a perfect ten is six times harder than 9/9. Remember that all three pay the same—P50,000.

The second of the nine Keno tips will be to always bet on the 8/8 card.

Overcoming the 3% House Edge

The challenging aspect of Keno is that the house advantage is at least 3%. In most cases, casinos have a house edge of 18 to 40 percent, which makes it difficult to invest in.

However, some online casinos offer bonuses and a higher payback chance to entice players to play Keno. Other digital platforms have a 96% return to player (RTP), which can really help their users win.

Our tip: look for a competitive online casino that has a payback percentage of at least 97%.

Bet on Consecutive Numbers

Many believe that betting on consecutive numbers can help win in Keno. Although there is no data or scientific explanation to back such a claim, it makes perfect sense.

You see, random number generators (RNG) are the tool used in e-Keno, and in other casino games. This provides fair gameplay because numbers are not manipulated to do the gambling operator’s bidding.

In that essence, the numbers 33 and 34 will likely appear like 18 and 20 or any other combination.

Hence, it is logical to sometimes bet on consecutive numbers rather than ‘mixing things up.’

Learn Keno Before Playing

Although Keno does not require its players to have god-like IQ levels to play and enjoy, it still needs some understanding before spending cash.

You need to learn how the game works, and you can do that by playing at online casinos. Most platforms have a free-to-play feature where interested players can try casino games without cashing in.

Before playing for real, try the game first and familiarize yourself with the game’s mechanics and special features.

Cold Numbers are Playable

Numbers that have not been drawn for a long time are called “Cold Numbers.” Gambling aficionados know that these numbers lead to money, and so should you.

The numbers that have not come around for a long stretch have a large probability of being drawn. However, take note that since RNGs run the result, the likelihood of getting eight cold numbers is little to impossible. 

Nevertheless, it does not mean that cold numbers should be avoided. If playing a small card of four numbers or less, betting on these cold numbers can be your ticket to a payout.

Stick with Four to Eight Numbers

There are 80 numbers in a standard keno game. So many choices, right? But the optimal betting range should be four to eight numbers only. Any less or more can be risky.

The downside of hitting 4/4 is that it only has a smaller payout. However, it is still better than hitting 4/10.

The same goes if a player hits an 8/8. Since 8/8, 9/9, and 10/10 all pay P50,000, betting on the lowest option, which is 8/8, can result in a huge haul.

Conclusion

Keno games are not that popular in brick-and-mortar casinos. However, if you want to try and play the game, it is best to visit online casinos to have significantly improved odds of winning.

Read: Gambling Industry Statistics You Need to Know

Gambling is a booming industry, helping economies worldwide, but how much do you know about its statistics? Are you updated with the different gambling trends or aware of any surprising facts?

If you want to know more, or want to get acclimated with the gambling industry, read along.

The Global Statistics of the Gambling Industry

According to Ask Gamblers, gambling, particularly online, is a multi-billion dollar industry that continues to grow year-by-year.

H2 Gambling Capital confirmed that the global online gambling market had a value of $45.8 billion in 2018. In 2019, the market value jumped by more than $1 billion, or $46.96 billion.

The industry grew in size three years later despite the Covid-19 pandemic. According to Grand View Research, the online gambling industry is now capped at $65.53 billion.

Meanwhile, the brick-and-mortar gambling industry was valued at $450 billion in 2018, said H2 Gambling Capital. It even reached $481 billion in 2020.

However, due to the rise of online gambling, the physical casino market saw huge dip in 2022. The Business Research Company revealed that from $481 billion, it went down to $449.04 billion.

But while the statistics may surprise you, the following facts will make your jaw drop even wider.

Total Casinos In the US

Statista revealed that in 2021, the United States saw the gambling industry booming. 466 commercial casinos operate in all the nation’s corners, including 515 tribal gambling houses.

Total Number of Visitors in Las Vegas

Back in 2021, Las Vegas casinos saw 32.2 million visitors, even if there was still a threat of Covid-19. It increased even further when Travel Weekly posted that 38.8 million have visited Sin City in 2022, or at least 20.5% more than the previous year.

Of those visitors, 73% were there to gamble.

Revenue of Las Vegas in Eight Months

The Nevada Gaming Commission revealed that in just eight months, from January to September of 2022, Las Vegas was able to accumulate $10.6 million in revenues from land-based casinos alone.

These are some of the most interesting facts about gambling. But wait, there’s more:

Amount of Gamblers in Some Countries

The gambling industry can have different statistics, depending on countries. The stats are affected by the cultural and social norms of the country, including legal and regulatory frameworks and the availability and accessibility of gambling.

The U.S.

In 2021, the gross gaming revenue (GGR) in the United States has reached $53 billion. The revenue increased in 2022, according to Statista, with the US recording a $60.42 billion GGR.

Macau

There was an annual low in Macau’s gaming revenue last year, only posting $5.24 billion—50% lower than how much it earned in 2021, which is $10.83 billion.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom, the largest regulated online gambling market in the world, was able to accumulate $12.5 billion in 2021. It jumped in 2022, recording a whopping $17.33 billion GGR.

Italy

Although gambling is illegal, the Italian government allows sports betting, lotteries, and some gambling activities, which led to their GGR seeing revenue of a humungous $137.41 billion in 2021.

However, it saw a decline the following year. It only reached $134.31 billion in 2022. Still, Italy has the highest GGR among other countries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the gambling industry is a major contributor to the global economy, with a wide range of gaming activities generating billions of dollars in revenue each year. The industry has continued to grow and evolve with the advent of new technologies, making gambling more accessible and convenient than ever before. 

However, it is important to remember that gambling can also have negative impacts, such as addiction and financial hardship. As such, it is crucial for individuals to gamble responsibly and for the industry to prioritize responsible gaming practices. 

By staying informed about the latest gambling industry statistics and trends, we can better understand the impact of gambling on society and work towards creating a safer and more sustainable industry for all.

Read: Common Sports Betting Misconceptions: Are they True?

Gambling has been a popular pastime for centuries, with people constantly trying to develop new strategies that sometimes lead to some of the weirdest game plans.

While some techniques are based on sound logic or the number game, the following methods will make you wonder: Why?

Same Numbers, Why Not?

We all know gamblers are superstitious. From a rabbit’s foot to wearing red underwear for luck, some bettors stick to a certain number or set of numbers. Using the numbers a few times may have won them, but logically speaking, there is no scientific explanation that sticking with a same number or numbers can help one find success.

But we understand, especially since the same number strategy is commonly used in lottery or roulette. However, experts are torn on whether the method is effective or not. 

Some theories claim that the probability of getting picked increases if the numbers have not yet been drawn. Other assumptions argue that the method will not work, so using the same numbers strategy is not 100 percent guaranteed to make someone a winner.

If this works or not, this surely tops our list of weirdest gambling strategies!

Maximum Bets on Slots? Game!

One of the weirdest gambling strategies we have stumbled upon is the belief that when playing slots, it is best to wager with the maximum amount. Sounds foolish, right?

We found it bizarre due to the fact that gambling can be addictive. Without control, it may lead to financial ruin, and using this strategy can quickly burn a deep hole in someone’s pockets.

Nevertheless, the maximum bets strategy is very popular among jackpot slots players because of how the RTP increases in line with the wager.

It is a high-risk-high-reward method that can only work for a gambler with infinite resources. If the bankroll is tight, do not use this strategy.

Surprise, Surprise

This might be the weirdest strategy on the list because, honestly, it does not make sense. Yet, many apply this technique (although it is a belief). Covering their eyes for a ‘dramatic’ effect on the result is very common among players.

This is typically not a strategy but a superstition. Some players even believe they will not influence the random number generator if they close their eyes.

For Each Spin, Wait 17 Seconds

You may be wondering why the recommended waiting time in the strategy is 17 seconds—specifically. This strategy implies that since 17 is a prime number, there is a need for a 17-second pause before spinning again to make the game more volatile.

This method is effective because it helps players play at a slower pace. It helps avoid smashing the spin button again and again, which may cause your bankroll to dwindle faster if you hit a losing streak.

While it is among the weirdest gambling strategies, it is also one of the most rational and safest techniques players can use.

Tournaments Only

Playing only in tournaments is not the weirdest gambling strategy because it is very common among players. Experts also advised that an effective method, if a player wants to be good, is joining tournaments only.

Many of these competitions allow amateur players to join. Also, the fees are flat, giving players a chance to organize their bankroll before joining.

Moreover, organizers sometimes allow only the initial qualifying wager, giving more freedom to players afraid of spending too much money.

Conclusion

Indeed, strategies can sometimes work or not. It all depends on the player’s playstyle. 

There is also no guarantee that these methods can bring huge fortune to those who use them. However, looking for the best strategy to perfect is like trial and error. If you are willing to search for the best technique that can make you win big, you have to try many methods and devise many game plans to see which one works for you.

Read: Things to Consider When Choosing a Philippine Online Sportsbook

As the popularity of Philippine online sports betting continues to grow in the country, more and more online sportsbooks are entering the market. With so many options, it can be difficult for bettors to determine which online bookmaker fits them. 

TGM Research reports that more than 38.91% of the country’s population actively participates in sports betting. The surge in online betting sites has significantly contributed to this growth and the country’s permissive betting laws. 

Without a doubt, these platforms provide greater convenience and flexibility for bettors, as well as a number of other benefits compared to traditional brick-and-mortar betting shops.

For bettors, however, a prerequisite is required when choosing a bookmaker to play with. OkBet will be exploring those factors to help you make an informative decision.

License

The main factor when choosing a Philippine online sportsbook is that they first must have a license to operate.

The gaming license is proof that the platform is allowed to provide betting services, not to mention that the operator is transparent, safe, and fair.

Gambling is 100% legal in the Philippines, with government authorities regulating the industry. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is the one responsible for licensing sports betting sites in the country.

This means that all betting sites operating within the Philippines must be licensed and regulated by PAGCOR to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

The government entity releases a list of accredited gaming operators, both offshore and inland. In the Philippines, there are only 27 authorized inland casinos or PIGOs (Philippine Inland Gaming Operators).

Those not included in the list are not regulated by PAGCOR and should not be patronized.

Safe and Secured

Online casinos are vulnerable to cyber attacks, and Philippine sportsbooks are not an exemption. Hence, it is important to consider an online bookmaker’s security measures.

When registering to any platform, users have to enter their personal information, including their financial data. Suppose the online sportsbook is not adept with its firewall. In that case, this sensitive information may end up in the hands of identity thieves and hackers, putting the registrant in danger of identity theft and other cyber attacks.

Players have to be aware of how the operator protects its customers from cyber threats prior to signing and investing money in the platform.

Knowing the online sportsbook’s Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption certificate is a must. The SSL helps websites in creating a secure connection. It also encrypts the data shared so it cannot be hacked.

Moreover, checking the payment methods is also important. In the Philippines, secured modes of payment like Gcash, DragonPay, InstaPay, and trusted banks are the people’s choice when transacting online.

Reputation

Because there are hundreds, if not thousands, of online betting sites in the Philippine market, it is safe to assume that not all of them, including sportsbooks, have a reputation to maintain. Thus, conducting a background check of the website or platform is needed before considering signing up.

A way to check the site’s reputation is through online customer reviews. Some share their experience at sites like HLTV, Reddit, Twitch, TrustPilot, and AskGamblers. These websites are unbiased and can help you gauge whether the betting platform is trustworthy.

Also, it is better to see if the Philippine online sportsbook has been in the industry for quite some time. This ensures that operators operating for a long time usually have proven records of a safe and secure gambling experience.

Services and Markets

There are three reasons why bettors patronize a certain bookmaker or online casino.

The first reason is the range of their offered services. The best bookmakers, like OkBet, cover a range of sports and their respective leagues. In that essence, there are plenty of options for gamblers to choose from.

Secondly, excellent bookmakers will cater to major leagues of sports. These include UEFA Champions League, ICC Cricket World Cup, NBA, NFL, ATP Tennis, and more.

Lastly, a good sportsbook must have various betting markets and competitive odds. The more options available, the better. 

Bonuses and Promotions Offered

Bettors are attracted to an online sportsbook if they have unique bonuses and promotions. The most common are:

• Welcome bonuses
• Deposit bonuses
• No deposit bonuses
• Recharge bonuses
• Free credits
• Cashbacks
• Rebates

Some of the best online casinos on the internet allow multiple promotions per bet to ensure players have an enjoyable and profitable gambling experience.

Customer Service

While online bookmakers have the previous factors, it will be useless if they have terrible customer service. Which is why a good sports betting site must have excellent customer service representatives who can quickly assist users with their every concern.

Anyone should easily reach the platform, whether it be via e-mail, chat, call, text, or social media.

Conclusion

Your choice of Philippine online sportsbook must check the above-mentioned criteria because it will determine your betting success rate. Remember that as a bettor, you only deserve the best.

Great sportsbooks and online casinos can provide you with the best gambling experience. DO NOT SETTLE FOR LESS.

Read: Is the Labouchere System for You?

A complicated system, the Labouchere System is one of the most profitable techniques ever invented. It may take some time to master the method, but it is very effective in the long run, that is, if you want to keep your bankroll and your resources stable.

The Labouchere System is known by many names. In fact, it was even called the Split Martingale, or the Cancellation System, and even the American Progression.

The method takes on the principle of the Martingale, another negative progression. However, the difference is their belief. 

In Labouchere, recovery of losses is possible through a small number of wins. The Martingale, on the other hand, believes that the losses can be recovered by increasing the bet amount.

Moreover, the Martingale aims to recover the losses incurred with one single win. That is in contrast with the Labouchere System because it will be recovering the losses through multiple wins.

With that in mind, OkBet will teach you how to master the technique. Read along to understand how it works, and how it can be used.

The Labouchere System

Developed by roulette player Henry Labouchere, the Labouchere System is typically used in roulette, blackjack, and baccarat. It can also be used in sports betting as well.

To start using this method, you have to write down a sequence of numbers. Now, these numbers should be well thought out because they will affect your potential profit.

For example, this sequence:

20 – 30 – 40 – 50

The sum of these numbers represents the total amount of profit you want to win. Following the sequence, the goal is 140.

The player will then bet the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence. In the example, it will be 20 + 50 = 70. If the bet is won, those numbers will be crossed off the list, and a new bet is placed equal to the sum of the new first and last numbers.

But a new number will be added to the sequence if the bet is lost, which is the sum of the first and last numbers. The new set of numbers will be:

20 – 30 – 40 – 50 – 70

The first and last numbers will be added again, and their sum will be the total bet amount.

The process continues until all the numbers in the sequence have been crossed off, at which point the desired profit has been achieved. If, at any point, the player runs out of money to make the next bet, the system fails.

Exception

There will come a time when the player will be left with just one number. The only course of action is to stake the remaining amount.

If the wager wins, the original sequence will reset.

Advantage and Disadvantage of Using this System

The Labouchere System offers flexibility in betting. Players are allowed to adjust the initial betting sequence. They can also adjust the levels of risk and reward. Adding zero to the sequence is also allowed, making the technique much safer.

For instance, having a longer sequence means the profit will be much higher than a shorter set of numbers.

The problem, however, is that the longer sequence results in a larger bet size, especially if few losses are incurred.

The system is guaranteed to make money. However, there is also a possibility that the player will experience a losing streak.

In that sense, the Labouchere System is like other negative progressions. It is like a double-edged sword, but with fewer risks, if the player knows how to gamble responsibly.

Recommendation

While the system is much safer than the others, it is also not great. A player may lose more bets than make a profit.

OkBet does not recommend the usage of the Labouchere System. However, if you, the player, know how to control your betting urges and will not chase any losses, the method can be effective and grant you success in your gambling journey.

Read: Learning Popular Poker Hand Nicknames

One of the most popular online casino games, blackjack, is under scrutiny for being manipulated by its respective operator. However, there is no evidence pointing to such an accusation. To clear some air, OKBET will explain why it is basically impossible for the game to be rigged.

First and foremost, the idea of an online casino game being unfair to players is a stereotype created by players who were “unwise” at picking the site to play. The only instance it can happen is when there is no regulating body.

For instance, in the Philippines, there are only 17 licensed online casino operators. Yet, if you search Google, there are hundreds of gambling sites.

We are not pointing fingers, but the number one problem why many believe casino games are rigged is because they play at illegal sites. There is a reason why these gambling venues are unregulated: they do not abide by any gambling laws.

One of the requisites in acquiring a license to operate a gambling site is that games should not be manipulated in any way. True, there is a possibility that games like online slots can be rigged. 

However, authorized operators are under the monitoring of the government. Any attempt to disadvantage their players will result in criminal charges and the stoppage of their operation.  

To prevent being duped by illegal casino operators, STOP supporting them. If you want to experience fair and just gambling, play at legal and authorized sites.

So is Online Blackjack Manipulated?

While others may say online blackjack can be manipulated, we strongly disagree. Since 2006, a shuffling software was already implemented into all online blackjack games.

The advancement of the shuffling software has come a long way. Nowadays, state-of-the-art software is being used by licensed casino operators to prevent any manipulation in the game of online poker, blackjack, etc.

According to TFE Times, a random number generator (RNG) is used to produce a random set of numbers. Commonly, it is used in online slots and other casino games.

To further promote fairness in playing online, an Optical Character Recognition technology (OCR) is installed by every operator. Through this piece of equipment, players are given information regarding the cards dealt.

There is even a pop-up warning in case players make a bad move. Obviously, the importance of fair play is applied. At some point, it sort of “spoon-feeds” players by giving them all the information they need. 

Rather than the legal online casino to cheat, there is a huge chance that players will install a shuffle tracking application to help them use the counting cards strategy.

Pick the Right Casino

Picking a trustworthy casino is a responsibility every gambler should uphold. Again, licensed online gambling operators will do anything to keep their licenses from getting revoked. This includes ensuring that games like online blackjack and other games are not manipulated. 

Choosing a rogue casino site is on the player because it only raises the likelihood that winning will be 100x harder.

Here’s a checklist for you to do in checking the legitimacy of the online casino you will play:

• Online casino is licensed
• Great player reviews and forums
• Site’s security
• Customer support is impeccable
• Payout is almost always on time

If the requirements mentioned above are met, rest assured that the casino you will play online blackjack with is not manipulated in any way. Be critical as well when it comes to spotting fake legal online casinos. Only play at reputable online gambling sites like OKBET.

Read: Learning Popular Poker Hand Nicknames

Poker is a very popular game that it acquired nicknames for its hands. Newbies may only know a pair of sixes, but in the eyes of a veteran player, it will be “kicks” or Route 66.” Join us as we talk about the most popular poker hand nicknames.

Throughout its decades, poker enthusiasts have come up with unique names to call the different pairs and pockets. We will not put all of those nicknames here, but only the commonly used ones, especially in Texas Hold’em, which is available in every casino, brick-and-mortar, and online.

Pocket Pairs

Any hand with two similarly valued cards is called a pocket pair. The suit of the card does not matter as long as they are equal. For instance, two aces (AA) or two sixes (66).

Pocket Aces

For pocket aces, the most popular are Pocket Rockets, Batteries, and Snake Eyes.

Taken to the name itself, Pocket Rockets describes the look of two aces—rockets. Combine it with poker, and you will get Pocket Rockets.

Names for pocket aces were literally taken into a thing. Just like Batteries because AA is a particular type of battery.

Because it is a popular game, poker’s pocket aces took another nickname from a popular casino game—craps. The Snake Eyes is a popular dice term for a pair of ones.

Pocket Kings (KK)

Pocket Kings only have two most commonly used names: Ace Magnets and Cowboys.

Ace Magnets is an ironic name for a pair of kings because it is the only hand to beat it. But hey, who are we to judge those that coined it?

On the other hand, Cowboys is a weird moniker since it is unclear how the pair got it. Some theories involve phonetics, “explaining” that the phonetic “C” in cowboys is similar to “K” in kings when spoken.

Pocket Queens (QQ)

If you are holding a pair of queens, it means you rule the world. Just kidding.

On a serious note, pocket queens are often called Ladies because holding puts the owner in possession of a pair of connotatively women cards.

Pocket Jacks (JJ)

Because a pair of jacks look like a hook, veteran poker players call this pair Fishhooks or Hooks.

Pocket Tens (TT)

Many words have an acronym for “TT.” Dynamite and Train Tracks are the most popular nicknames for a pair of 10s.

When saying “T and T,” it sounded like “TNT,” a term for dynamite. Hence the name for pocket tens.

On the other hand, Train Tracks is believed to have originated from two things: a case of alliteration or a reference to the Old West railroad.

A-X Popular Poker Hand Nicknames

It only takes incredible luck to have a pair of kings or aces. Most of the time, players have an ace and a number or a face.

Ace-King (AK)

This combination’s most commonly used terms are Big Slick, King Arthur, and Space Cowboy.

Big Slick is somewhat far-fetched because this references the hole cards in Texas Hold’em, a poker variant. It can dig a player’s grave unless the situation changes favorably.

Playing on the cards’ initials can also result in something noble, like King Arthur. Since the letters are “A” and “K,” reversing it can result in the acronym for the name of the legendary king-knight.

Ace-Queen (AQ)

This pair has two names: Antony and Cleopatra and Rocket Queen.

Antony and Cleopatra is a reference to the Egyptian lovers Antony and Cleopatra. We all know how they ended and would rather not talk about it.

Meanwhile, Rocket Queen is somewhat festive, considering that it is derived from the famous rock band Guns ‘N Roses, paired with the shape of the letter “A.”

Ace-Jack (AJ)

This combination has two poker hand nicknames: Blackjack and Hijack. 

Blackjack is a popular card game, but there is no explanation for why the Ace-Jack pair is called such. Our theory is that “AJ” sounds like blackjack. Well, that’s our guess.

The pair involves the high card and the jack, hence the mashup. The result is Hijack.

K-X Hand Popular Nicknames

Although the most ideal pair to have is a pair of aces, having combinations with the king is not too bad. 

King-Queen (KQ)

In a royal family, the king and queen are the highest. They are married to each other, and basically the heads of any family. Hence, the nicknames for this combination are Marriage, Divorce, and Throne.

This pair is often called Marriage because the queen and king are a couple.

But, of course, in any family, altercations arise. Some problems were too significant that relationships ended in Divorce, another moniker for the pair.

The last one, the Throne, is pretty much self-explanatory—the king and the queen can only occupy the throne.

King-Jack (KJ)

The pair, when reversed, results in the abbreviation “jk” or just kidding, hence the nickname Just Kidding or Joking.

Q-X Hand and their Popular Nicknames

Interestingly, the queen hand combos come with unique names, including:

Queen-Jack (QJ)

Its most popular names are Hawaii and Quack.

If you play poker for too long, there is a belief that not playing the Queen and Jack combo for a year will let you take a vacation in Hawaii, hence the name. 

The other, Quack, is a portmanteau of “queen” and “jack.” Simple as that.

Queen-Ten (QT)

Cutie and Q-Tip are the two most common nicknames of this pair, and here’s why:

Cutie is self-explanatory. Since the queen and ten have an abbreviation of “QT,” when spoken or read, it is like “cutie.” Same with Q-Tip. You just have to be creative, just like what the poker hand nicknames on this list.

J-X Combo Nicknames

Although not as mighty as the first hands, the jack combinations can still deal some damage. The pairs that have the most unique nicknames are:

Jack-Ten (JT)

Allegedly, a Greek poker player won a game using this pair. The story was so famous that the combo eventually earned the title “Greek Passport.”

Jack-Nine (JN)

The name of this pair is legendary: T.J. Cloutier. Why? Because apparently, the player named T.J. Cloutier flopped three straight flushes in one year.

These are just some of the most famous nicknames of various poker hands. In your next game, try using these nicknames and make an impression that you are a veteran!

Read: Filipinos Love Poker, Here’s Why

Since 2006, Filipinos have continued to love poker apart from the usual money games like sabong and such.

Although it saw a decline during the pre-pandemic, it boomed once again amid the Covid-19 pandemic. This time around, players adored online poker, especially with everyone stuck at their homes.

Poker’s popularity continues to rise, especially with more relaxed restrictions, and the threat of Covid-19 is no longer that severe. The game, including all its variants, is gaining more and more players by the day.

A Timeline of Poker’s Rise to Popularity

According to Poker Philippines, the game’s prevalence originated in 2006 when one poker room at the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s Airport Casino offered a Texas Hold’em, a poker variant. 

It was the largest local poker room in the country, the Metro Card Club, that opened its doors to the public. Other poker rooms followed suit.

In 2007, a local circuit called Filipino Poker Tour was launched by PokerStars. It was such a successful event that an Asia Pacific Poker Tour was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel & Casino in Manila in August of that year.

The Asian Poker Tour followed in 2008, extending its satellite events to the Philippines, thus capitalizing on the country as a poker destination.

Due to its constant growth in popularity, a media group under the name of Somuchpoker, was launched in 2014. It aimed to give the players a voice by conducting interviews.

Live poker’s popularity, on the other hand, began in the post-pandemic. As people are stuck at home, game rooms compete amongst each other, which would attract the most number of players. They do it through creative themes and, of course, big prizes.

Filipinos Love Poker…and Casino

The Philippine gambling industry continues to see revenue growth, pointing out that Filipinos love to gamble. In March 2023, the gross gaming revenue (GGR) reached new heights, recording a whopping P214 billion (P113.09 billion in 2021).

In a breakdown reported by PhilStar, casinos were the main contributor to this GGR. Although Bingo and other electronic games share P20.12 billion, poker plays also contributed, posting a P59.88 million revenue.

Based on the research made by Daily Tribune, there are six reasons why Pinoys love poker.

Convenient

Poker is already inherently popular worldwide. Data showed that there are more than 100 million players all over the globe.

But how, you asked?

It is because poker switched to online. Regulated online casinos like OKBET offer poker and its variants to players, making it convenient for Filipinos to play the game exactly how they are played.

But while there is an advantage to playing online poker, it also has its downs. Since the game is on the website, the thrill of playing at a poker table is gone.

Regardless, poker players continue to support its online version, especially since they are still going up against real people.

Accessible

Unlike illegal and other casino games, poker is a pervasive legal game that offers relaxed regulations. Because of its legality worldwide, it has become even more accessible to people than other games of chance.

It’s all about the Skills

Most casino games involve luck. But poker is a matter of skills and how you deal with the given hand.

Filipinos are all about skills, and that is why they love poker. Yes, it sometimes involves a little from Lady Luck, but poker skills will be superior to sheer luck in the long run.

Look at professional poker players. They rely not on luck but on math and odds. To win in poker games, investing in poker books and applying those techniques can give you an edge.

The Nature of Poker

Filipinos love poker because of how competitive it can be. Forget about slots; there is no competition there. But in poker, you will meet far better people than you. 

In essence, it is good, for it creates a shroud of competitiveness among players. It drives people to win even more because they face good opponents.

Winning money is not the reason why many invest in poker. Partly, yes. But it is because of how competitive the game can get.

A Game You can Socialize

Due to the game becoming extremely popular, it turned into a social activity. Paired with poker’s competitive nature, the casino game can quickly turn from a game between friends to a serious tournament.

Compared to other games like blackjack, the only interaction a player can get will be between him and the dealer. But in poker, there will be other players joining the table.

It’s Part of the Culture

Lastly, Filipinos have fallen in love with poker because it has been part of our culture. Remember the phrase “poker face?” It came from the game! Terms like “folded” and even phrases such as “wild card” all came from poker.

If we sum up these reasons, it clearly puts a definitive explanation as to why Filipinos love poker.

Read: What Ruins the NBA: Technical Fouls

The NBA uses technical fouls to ensure every game has law and order. But what if referees use it for personal reasons?

The simple answer is: the game is ruined.

With refs quick to blow their whistles and slap players and coaches with a T, the quality of the matches deteriorates. Fans will lose interest in the games because of the calls, and it affects online sportsbooks as well.

However, it is important to know that referees are humans too. They are allowed to make mistakes.

Regardless, some of their calls were absurd, so even fans from opposing teams voiced their frustration over the horrendous officiating.

Let’s take a look at the 2021 NBA season. One game, particularly the match between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Brooklyn Nets, highlighted how awful these referees were.

With 9:41 left in the third quarter, Kyrie Irving committed a foul, which he was clearly upset about. It reached a point where he jawed with Lakers guard Dennis Schroder, having a heated exchange on the court.

Although the conversation between the two was harmless or would not escalate, the referees quickly gave each a technical foul. Remember that Irving and Schroder have never been ejected in their entire NBA career. But the game became served as their first ejection.

It happened while the two continued their discussion, and the officials had had enough, kicking Irving and Schroder off the court. As a result, it ruined an exciting game, and fans, especially bookies like OKBET, were not happy.

Technical Fouls: What is it?

According to the NBA Rulebook, a technical is any excessive foul. Primarily, it includes unsportsmanlike behavior, violations made by players and coaches, delay of games, detrimental conduct, and more.

Here are some reasons why referees give out this type of call:

Timeouts

Only seven (7) timeouts are allowed per regulation, with a maximum duration of 75 seconds. Once coaches use up the allotted timeouts, they can still call for more in exchange for an automatic technical foul, resulting in a free throw and possession to the opponent.

Game Delay

Every NBA game is fast-paced and adheres to a specific flow. There are instances where players and coaches disrupt the balance, forcing referees to issue necessary technical fouls.

For a delay of the game, it must be:

• Player prevents the ball to be in-bounded in an orderly manner.
• Player interferes with the ball after scoring
• When a foul or violation is committed, player does not immediately gives the ball back to the referee
• Touching the ball even before it was thrown in
• Defender crosses the line at the throw-in spot even before the attacking player inbounds the ball
• Boundary line is crossed by a coach, a player, or a trainer
• A free throw shooter walks past the three-point line while making free throws
• Untucked shirt before entering the game

Note that the first offense is always equivalent to a warning from the officials. The second offense, however, will be a technical foul.

Technical fouls can also reset the clock to 14 seconds or stay the same before the call. If it is called before an opponent makes it to the half-court, there will be a fresh 8-second count.

Conduct

NBA is stringent regarding the integrity of the game and the association as a whole. The league ensures that basketball is played cleanly. Referees are given the responsibility to assess if a player or a team deserves a technical.

Here are some of the reasons:

• Disrespectful toward an official
• Unnecessary contact with an official
• Excessive expression caused by a call or a missed call
• Cursing or profanity
• Coach enters the court without a go-signal from the referee
• Player commits an unnatural physical contact
• Taunting
• Eye guarding
• Intentionally throws the ball or any other thing at a player
• Throwing or kicking the ball into the stands

How Much Does a Technical Cost?

Technical fouls, including flagrant fouls, merit fines, and even suspensions. The NBA increases the number of allowed technicals depending if it is the regular season or the playoffs.

Here is the table for reference:

Ejections are also fined, depending on how often they have been ejected. The commissioner can also punish players, coaches, and trainers by having them pay a fine of up to $50,000.

Referees, Management to Blame

NBA referees have been in knee-deep controversies since basketball took over in the 70s. From fixing games to holding grudges, these officials were among the reasons the game’s quality declined. 

Not all referees are bad, but it is also considered spoiled when a good apple is mixed with rotten ones. If a good official gets associated with the likes of Joey Crawford, Bob Delaney, Bennett Salvatore, and Earl Strom, the perception of fans is that he/she is also bad at officiating games.

Not to mention how lenient NBA is to referees.

One incident involves NBA referee Ben Taylor who targetted Toronto Raptors star Fred VanVleet, slapping him with a technical foul after a technical foul. It became so obvious that the media feasted on it. 

However, instead of reprimanding the referee for abusing power, the NBA fined VanVleet $30,000 for “public criticism of the officiating.”

The Raptors guard expressed his frustration about Taylor’s horrendous officiating in an interview, saying that the referee was “terrible” that night. 

I’ll take a fine. I don’t really care. I thought Ben Taylor was f****** terrible tonight. For most nights, out of the three [officials], there’s one or two that just f*** the game up. 

“It’s been like that a couple [of] games in a row. Denver was tough, obviously. You come out tonight competing pretty hard, [and] in the third quarter, I get a b******* tech, [it] changes the whole dynamic of the game, changes the whole flow of the game,” he said in a press conference after receiving his eight technical of the ‘22-’23 season.

Read: Rhenz Abando, the Next Korean Star?

Sports betting is a popular form of gambling, but there are many misconceptions about it. Many people think this leisure activity is all luck and you can’t win consistently. Others believe that sports betting is only for the rich or that it’s illegal in most places.

The truth is, sports betting can be a profitable activity if done correctly. With the proper knowledge and strategies, anyone can make money from sports betting. 

However, many misconceptions about this activity still need to be addressed to help people understand how to bet responsibly and profitably. This article will discuss some of the most common misconceptions about sports betting and why they are wrong.

#1. The Bookies are Always Right

There is a popular belief that what the bookmakers like OKBET predicted, it will always come out. That is one of the most common sports betting misconceptions.

Bookies are not gods nor seers that can predict the outcome of a game. Yes, they are experts in offering odds, but it does not mean that they always get it right.

Inaccurate odds occur at bookmakers. Bear in mind that in sports betting, a simple injury, a lucky punch, or a simple fling of the ball, can turn things around, and cause an upset.

#2. To Earn from Betting, You Need to be a Statistician

Yes, it is true that in sports betting, a player must research the stats of every team, player, or fighter. Using calculations to make an accurate prediction is an advantage. An ADVANTAGE.

You see, sports betting does not require a gambler to be an analyst to win. One can simply follow a reputable value bet finder or a credible tipster.

#3. Risk-Free Betting does not Exist

One of the ridiculous misconceptions about sports betting is that it always carries a certain risk. However, risk-free betting does exist, and there are techniques that people actually profit from.

These are:

• Matched Betting – Bookmakers offer promotions and free bets that bettors can convert into profits. 
• Arbitrage Betting – This is similar to matched betting but involves comparing the odds and betting exchanges from different bookies.

#4. Earning is Impossible

That is not entirely true. Anyone can earn at sports betting. However, every sports bettor will reach a certain point where they will have a streak of bad luck.

Many believe that sports betting can only bring misfortune. Although, there are many sports betting professionals out there.

Just like any profession, it takes hard work and dedication to succeed. But anyone can be successful at sports betting if they take it seriously and responsibly.

 #5. It is Always About Luck, Not Strategies

Games of chance rely on luck, but not the entire time. One of the most common misconceptions is that if bettors want to be successful in sports betting, they need to be extremely lucky.

No, that is not entirely true. While games of chance require a bit of luck, they also need analysis and radical thinking.

In winning or losing at sports betting, note that odds can be influenced by professional and public opinion. To find success, a bettor needs to be innovative and strategize in choosing the odds to place their bets on.

Not all beliefs are true. Often, it is about the choices that people make. In every action, or decision, there is always a consequence. While there are misconceptions about sports betting that could lead to mishaps, there is always a way to enjoy a stress-free gambling experience: responsible gaming.

Read: Mastering the Kelly Strategy