David “Chip” Reese’s entry into the high-stakes poker arena is a captivating tale of a chance encounter in Las Vegas that forever altered his life. This article explores the remarkable journey of Chip Reese, from his college days to becoming a legendary figure in the world of poker, highlighting his impact on the game and the enduring legacy he left behind.
From Academia to Poker Stardom
In the early 1970s, Chip Reese embarked on a journey that would take him far from his academic pursuits. Armed with an undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College and plans to attend law school at Stanford, Reese, and a friend decided to make a pitstop in Las Vegas. Each had $400 to their names, a modest sum that would change Reese’s life forever.
In a twist of fate, Reese entered a poker tournament with his meager funds and emerged victorious, claiming both the title and a staggering $60,000 in prize money. It was a pivotal moment that altered the course of his life, leading him to forgo his plans for law school and charting a new path in the world of high-stakes poker.
A Maverick in a Different Era
It’s crucial to remember that during the mid-1970s, professional poker players didn’t enjoy the same recognition and celebrity status as they do today. Chip Reese’s decision to abandon his pursuit of law school did not sit well with his parents, who continued to send him financial support. Unbeknownst to them, Reese was rapidly amassing a bankroll, accumulating a staggering $1 million in just two years of play in Las Vegas.
Despite his eventual success, Chip Reese remained relatively unknown to modern TV poker audiences. Unlike today’s poker stars, he didn’t make frequent appearances in high-profile televised tournaments. His modest television presence was in stark contrast to his legendary status in high-stakes cash games.
Cash Game Virtuoso
Chip Reese’s true expertise lay in high-stakes cash games, where he regularly competed against poker luminaries such as Doyle Brunson, Bobby Baldwin, and Barry Greenstein. While exact winnings from these games remain elusive, many believe that Reese may have won more money playing poker than anyone in history.
Beyond his poker skills, Reese was known for his mantra: “There is no one I won’t play if the conditions are right.” He lived by this creed, often starting heads-up games with fellow high-stakes regulars to entice others to join. He firmly believed that action begets action, and he was unafraid to initiate games even when he didn’t perceive a significant edge.
A Versatile Poker Virtuoso
Reese was not confined to one poker variant; he was a versatile player. Doyle Brunson, one of poker’s legends, hailed him as the best Seven Card Stud player globally. Brunson even commissioned Reese to contribute to his renowned “Super System,” a testament to Reese’s strategic brilliance.
In 1991, Chip Reese achieved another milestone when he became the youngest player ever inducted into the prestigious Poker Hall of Fame.
The Untimely Passing
Tragically, Chip Reese’s life was cut short in December 2007 when he suffered a heart attack at the age of 56. His sudden demise sent shockwaves through the poker world, leaving a void that could never be truly filled. The loss was deeply felt by both fans and fellow players, robbing the poker community of the opportunity to witness the continued brilliance of one of its greatest minds.
Despite his relatively short time in the limelight, Chip Reese left an indelible mark on the poker world. Those who had the privilege of knowing him, like Doyle Brunson, Barry Greenstein, and others, remember him not only for his unparalleled talent but also for his remarkable character.
Reese’s ability to prioritize higher values, such as leaving a high-stakes game to watch his son play Little League, epitomized the man he was. In his honor, the poker world continues to celebrate the legacy of David “Chip” Reese, an icon who transcended his era and forever altered the game of poker.