Mike Binger

Mike Binger is an American professional poker player from Delray Beach, Florida, with over $7 million in live tournament earnings. His best live cash of $4,123,310 came when he finished in 3rd place at the 37th WSOP in July 2006. Mike also won his first ring at the WSOPC Lake Tahoe in November 2008. He is the brother of fellow poker pro Nick Binger.

Mike Binger: Early Life

While working on his Ph.D. in physics at Stanford University, Mike discovered poker. What began as a fun hobby quickly became a passion. He spent hours playing small-stakes games at Lucky Chances Casino, using his sharp math skills to improve. Before poker, Mike made money as a skilled blackjack card counter, a talent he picked up in college. After being banned from several Reno casinos when management determined he was too skilled, he shifted his focus fully to poker. Soon after earning his Ph.D., Mike returned to poker and made a huge breakthrough, finishing 3rd at the 37th WSOP and earning his biggest cash prize to date.

Mike Binger: Live Tournament Participation

Mike Binger’s first recorded live cash occurred in June 2003 at the Battle of the Bay in San Francisco. He finished in 5th place in a $200 + 20 No Limit Hold’em, cashing $1,750.

In July 2006, Mike entered in a $10,000 No Limit Texas Hold’em World Championship at the 37th WSOP in Las Vegas. He made 3rd place finish, securing his best live cash of $4,123,310.

Following this, in June 2007, Mike played in a $5,000 No Limit Hold’em at the 38th WSOP. He ended up in 3rd place, taking home $295,245.

Then, in February 2008, he participated in a $1,500 + 85 No Limit Hold’em at the L.A Poker Classic. Mike finished in 1st place, winning $125,730.

Later that year, in April, Mike joined in a $5,000 + 180 No Limit Hold’em at the WPT World Championship in Las Vegas. He made 1st place finish, adding $317,280 to his winnings.

Moreover, in November 2008, he made his mark by securing his first ring at the WSOPC Lake Tahoe. Mike won $5,000 + 150 No Limit Hold’em Championship event.

In November 2021, Mike competed in a $2,500 Mixed Big Bet Event Event #74 at the 52nd WSOP. He ended up in 28th place, earning $4,481.