Paul Pierce at the WSOP: “Poker Makes me a Smarter (NBA) Player”

One of the biggest stories early on at the 2011 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event revolved around Boston Celtics star Paul Pierce. 

The Celtics captain is one of many celebrities hoping to capture a WSOP bracelet and the multi-million cash reward that comes with it.

Pierce outlasted several hundred players during Day 1 of the event and looks to resume play on Monday.  At one point, the NBA star actually led the pack with the biggest chip count.  No word on whether he will receive another 6 hour massage while playing as he did during Day 1.

Why did Pierce enter? 

"The [$8 million] prize. Who wouldn't want to try and win that?" he told ESPN.com.

Pierce spoke to PokerListings.com regarding his love of the game. 

“I think poker has really helped me develop patience and that helps me in everything I do in life,” he revealed.  “It helps me on the basketball court, to be more patient and to be more of a thinking player and to be smarter out there.”

This was the nine time NBA All-Star player’s first time attending the WSOP. 

Recent Celtics players are no strangers to the gambling headlines.  Two years ago, former Boston star Antoine Walker bounced about $1 million in checks in Las Vegas casinos. 

- Patrick Flanagan, Gambling911.com

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