The Ten Deuce
If you don’t remember this poker hand, then you should. It’s called these days the Doyle Brunson. And it was the hand that won this poker legend back to back world series of poker events in 76 and 77.
So what is it about this man that evokes the respect from so many poker players, professionals and amateurs alike?
Perhaps it’s his lack of humility. When asked about who’s the best player in poker he says, “That’s like asking who’s the best fighter… (You) have to judge players according to the time they played.” And no one can argue that Brunson has been around for a long, long time in the poker scene.
His first big win came in ‘76 at World Series of Poker, and the rest, as they say is history.
And what do most superstars do after they establish their fame? They write a book of course. Only Brunson, is one of the few who actually knew what he was talking about.
He wrote the gospel on poker, what is more formally referred to his “Super System,” and is a definitive source for the ins and outs of the game. Many an amateur player has risen through the ranks just because of this one book. I personally recommend it as a must read it one truly wants to understands the ins and outs of poker, especially Texas Hold ‘Em.
The man originally wanted to teach and coach, he pursued his Master’s degree in Administrative Education, but decided against it saying, “…I saw that the pay scale for teachers was so poor, I decided not to pursue that profession.”
And it was probably the best decision he could have made. The man has a knack for the game, and has definitely made is mark way before the poker frenzy ever took hold in the main stream.
So the next time you’re sitting at the table with the old 10-2 off suit, think about it for a second before you just throw it away. And if you read that book closely enough, you may just realize, that sometimes the cards don’t matter. Sometimes it’s all in the situation.
