Jerry Buss was more than just a businessperson, investor, chemist, and philanthropist. He was a visionary man whose staunch drive, foresight, and extraordinary achievements left people in awe and admiration. Dr. Buss was the intellect behind the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Sparks, and even the Los Angeles Strings in World Team Tennis Championships wins.
However, his passion for victory extended beyond the court. He was also a daring poker player who delighted in the adrenaline rush of high-stakes poker casino games and the sweet taste of big wins. He participated in several prestigious tournaments, like the WSOP, where he almost won the championship bracelet and proved a formidable opponent before his demise in 2013 at 80.
Today’s casino news highlights Jerry Buss’s memorable moments, net worth, notable poker wins, and the cause of his death.
Jerry Buss: From Chemist to Business Man and Poker Champion
Gerald Hatten “Jerry” Buss, born on January 27, 1933, was the first of his parent’s four children in Salt Lake City, Utah. Growing up, Buss learned the value of hard work and perseverance early, working several jobs as a child. Aspiring to become a teacher, he attended the University of Wyoming, earning a B.S. in Chemistry in just two and a half years. Jerry Buss completed a Master’s and Doctorate at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. He worked as a chemist for different companies after that.
Business Ventures
Dr. Jerry Buss’ entrepreneurial pursuits began in the 1960s when he started investing in real estate. His keen sight and prudent approach to business led to his creation of a real estate empire, providing him with the resources to pursue his passion for sports. In 1979, Buss made a historic purchase of the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Kings, and The Forum for a then-record $67.5 million (worth over $500 million in 2024).
Under Buss’ innovative leadership, the Lakers experienced unprecedented success, winning ten NBA Championships and becoming one of the league’s most valuable franchises. In addition to his accomplishments with the Lakers, Buss also owned the Los Angeles Sparks, a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team that won two WNBA Championships.
Dr. Jerry Buss made significant contributions to sports, business, and philanthropy. In 2010, he was inducted into the revered Basketball Hall of Fame.
Jerry Buss and His Poker Escapades: Best Bets and Wins
While Jerry Buss was best known for owning the Los Angeles Lakers and impacting sports, and although the online casino scene had not developed back then, his love for poker was undeniable. Buss had a reputation for participating in high-stakes poker games, where his business excellence translated into impressive wins. He loved playing Seven-Card Studs, from where the Caribbean Stud Poker Vegas games stemmed as well as Limit Hold’em.
Some of Jerry Buss’ most memorable tournament poker moments include finishing second runner-up at the 22nd WSOP’s $2,500 Seven-Card Stud event in 1991, where he showcased his exceptional card-playing skills to earn his most considerable live cash, $33,250. Jerry would have undoubtedly loved Pai Gow Poker due to his affinity for many poker variants.
He continued playing until 2011 when he could no longer play, and he was a remarkable opponent to the best and wealthiest players, including those who love the Under the Gun poker position.
Net Worth Before and Cause of Death
At the time of his passing in 2013, Jerry Buss was worth approximately $700 million, a testament to his shrewd business acumen and tremendous career success.
Before his death, Buss arranged to pass his controlling interest in the Los Angeles Lakers, a 66% stake, to his six children via the Buss Family Trust. Each of his children, Jeanie, Jim, Johnny, Janie, Joey, and Jesse, received an 11% stake in the team, ensuring that Jerry Buss and his family’s legacy would continue to shape the future of the Lakers organization.
Buss was initially diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2012, which later progressed to kidney failure and blood clots. He passed on February 18, 2013, at the age of 80, after a long battle with cancer. His was mourned by his family, business partners, and many other fans, some of which play Wild Texas Online.
A Poker and Sports Legend
Although he never acquired the title of the best poker player in the world, Buss crafted a legacy that continues to inspire generations, ensuring his place among the legends of our time. Poker legend Doyle Brunson said, “Nobody mentions Jerry Buss’ contribution to Poker Nation. He helped many struggling poker players.” Phill Hellmuth believed “Jerry was a great Limit Hold’em player.” What a man and what a life!
Visit Vegas Aces Aces Casino to play free poker online and hone your skills at every poker variant, so you can dominate the poker tables like Jerry did.
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