We Want the Funk! David Funkhouser Wins First Bracelet in $1,500 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball

Key Takeaways:

• David Funkhouser clinches his first WSOP gold bracelet in Event #63: $1,500 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball Draw.
• The event saw 453 entrants, creating a prize pool of $604,755.
• Michel Leibgorin was the runner-up in a heads-up match against Funkhouser.

The 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP) has been a spectacle of highs, lows, and unforgettable moments, culminating in some spectacular showdowns. Among these, Event #63: $1,500 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball Draw stood out, drawing 453 entrants to the fabled tables of Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas. The stakes? A hefty prize pool of $604,755 and the coveted WSOP gold bracelet.

David Funkhouser, a name already familiar to those following the series closely, emerged as the victor, securing his first-ever gold bracelet and the lion's share of the prize pool — a cool $123,314. This win wasn't just about the money for Funkhouser; it was a testament to his dedication and skill, particularly in mixed game formats. "It means a lot," Funkhouser shared with PokerNews. "Close this year and close for many years. Played dozens, if not hundreds of these. They're hard to win."

The journey to the top wasn't easy. The final table was a battlefield, with each of the six contenders, guaranteed at least $19,087, not going down without a fight. Michel Leibgorin, Funkhouser's final adversary, proved to be a formidable opponent, pushing Funkhouser to the limit before succumbing in a heads-up duel that was both fast and furious.

Funkhouser's path to WSOP glory is a narrative of resilience and adaptation. With a background rich in mixed game formats, he has consistently shown his prowess at the tables, making four WSOP final tables prior to this event. His recent shift from fixed-limit games to big bet games, he notes, has opened up new challenges and opportunities. "Anybody who has not tried it should absolutely try it," he advised, underscoring the beauty and intensity of No-Limit 2-7 Lowball Draw.

The final day of the event was as unpredictable as it was thrilling. Owais Ahmed, starting as the shortest stack, made an early surge, while others like Tzu Peng Wang met an untimely exit. The dynamic of the gameplay shifted with every hand, with players like Ali Eslami and Charles Tucker making significant moves before being eliminated.

As the final three players battled it out, Funkhouser found himself at a disadvantage, short-stacked against a dominating Leibgorin. However, the tide turned when Funkhouser managed to secure a crucial pot against Leibgorin, bridging the gap and eventually taking the lead. Tucker's exit shortly after left Funkhouser and Leibgorin in a heads-up showdown that would end with Funkhouser's historic win.

David Funkhouser's triumph in the $1,500 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball Draw is a story of perseverance, skill, and a deep love for the game. "It's a fantastically beautiful game," Funkhouser reflected, a sentiment that will surely resonate with poker enthusiasts everywhere. As the 2024 WSOP continues, Funkhouser's victory will be remembered as a highlight, a moment where skill, strategy, and a bit of luck converged to crown a deserving champion.