Blackjack, often known as the game of 21, is not only a game of luck but also of skill and strategy. Over the years, some players have risen to legendary status, mastering the art of blackjack and leaving an indelible mark on the world of gambling. This article pays homage to some of the best blackjack players of all time, whose skills, strategies, and stories have become part of blackjack folklore. Check out the best players to ever play this game before learning how to play blackjack.
Edward O. Thorp – The Father of Card Counting
No discussion about blackjack legends would be complete without mentioning Edward O. Thorp. A mathematics professor with a PhD in mathematics, Thorp is considered the father of card counting. His 1962 book, “Beat the Dealer,” was groundbreaking. It was the first to mathematically prove that the house advantage in blackjack could be overcome by card counting. Thorp’s techniques revolutionized blackjack, making him a feared player in casinos and an idol for aspiring blackjack professionals.
Ken Uston – The Mastermind of Team Play
Ken Uston stands out for his contribution to the concept of team blackjack play. A brilliant strategist with an MBA from Harvard, Uston took card counting to the next level. He organized teams of players who would count cards and signal to big players when the count was favourable. His book, “The Big Player,” revealed his strategies and experiences, and he is credited with popularizing the concept of team play in blackjack.
Stanford Wong – The Author and Strategist
John Ferguson, known by his pen name Stanford Wong, is another iconic figure in the world of blackjack. He authored “Professional Blackjack,” a book that is considered a bible for card counters. Wong also developed a technique known as “Wonging,” where players watch the game until the count becomes favourable and then join in. His contributions to blackjack theory and practice have made him a respected figure among professional players.
Tommy Hyland – The Longest-Running Team Manager
Tommy Hyland is renowned for managing one of the longest-running blackjack teams in history. Starting in 1979, his team used card counting and other advanced strategies to beat casinos. Hyland is respected for his honesty and integrity in the often murky world of professional gambling. His team’s success over decades underscores his skill as a player and manager.
Don Johnson – The High Roller
Don Johnson made headlines in 2011 for winning over $15 million from three casinos in Atlantic City within a span of six months. Unlike other blackjack legends, Johnson used skillful game selection, negotiation of favourable house rules, and smart betting strategies rather than card counting. His incredible winning streak showed that understanding the business side of casinos could be just as effective as card counting.
Julian Braun – The Computer Wizard
Though he is not a player, Julian Braun’s contributions to blackjack strategy are monumental. A computer programmer at IBM, Braun used computer simulations to analyze blackjack statistics, which helped refine card-counting strategies. He collaborated with other blackjack legends like Thorp and Wong, providing the mathematical foundation for many of their strategies.
Lawrence Revere – The Author and Casino Insider
Lawrence Revere’s unique perspective as both a casino dealer and a professional player gave him insights that few others had. His book, “Playing Blackjack as a Business,” is regarded as one of the most comprehensive guides on professional blackjack strategies. His “Revere Point Count” is among the many card counting systems he developed.
All of these legends have turned blackjack into a game where skill triumphs over luck, and their stories continue to fascinate both players and enthusiasts of the game.
