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Eric Kassa Wins First-Ever High Roller as Royal Court Field Is Set

By Dana Castaneda | Jan 09, 2026 2:00 AM

Hear ye, hear ye — the Royal Court has crowned its final contenders, as the first-ever High Roller Tournament proved to be a resounding success.

A total of 63 players answered the call, battling for a guaranteed $5,000 first-place prize and an impressive High Roller trophy worthy of the kingdom’s elite. When the final cards fell, Eric Kassa from Wahpeton ND emerged victorious, claiming the title and etching his name into Royal Court history.

In addition to the win, nine players finished in the money, each earning a coveted 20K starting stack into the Royal Court National Championship, set to take place Friday, January 9 at 10:00 AM. There, players will compete for a $12,000 grand prize, alongside an additional $10,000 in Mystery Bounties, ensuring every knockout carries royal consequences.

This High Roller marked the final opportunity to accumulate chips for the Royal Court, officially locking in the King’s Guard. Joe Manno emerged as the reigning King’s Guard champion, entering the Royal Court National Championship with an imposing 80K starting stack. For his dominance, he also claimed the $500 King’s Guard cash bonus, cementing his position as the player to watch when the crown is on the line.

Beyond the felt, the celebration continued with the 7:00 PM cash drawing, where Jordan Sleen from Minnesota captured $200. Cash drawings will continue daily at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM, along with random FPN merchandise giveaways. Players may enter by placing receipts from qualifying events into the drawing drum located at the front of the room.

The court is assembled. The stacks are final. One throne remains. Let the Royal Court National Championship begin.

1st $5000 Eric Kassa -ND
2nd $1500 Steve Belland- MN
3rd $1000 Rylie Wright
4th $825 Rick Lutt - NE
5th $600 Masato Sugimoto
6th $600 Stanley Keller – ND
7th $500 Thomas Brimhall – MN
8th $500 Bonnie Bona – IL
9th $500 Steve Spratlen – NE

Eric Kassa

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