The Smart Money: How the World's Best Sports Bettors Beat the Bookies Out of Millions : a Memoir

Michael Konik

Jan 2006 · Simon and Schuster

About this ebook

An inside look at the lucrative world of professional high-stakes sports betting by a journalist who lived a secret life as a key operative in the world's most successful sports gambling ring. When Konik landed an interview with Rick "Big Daddy" Matthews, the largest bet he'd ever placed was $200. Konik was no stranger to Vegas, but Matthews was in a different league: the man was rumored to be the world's smartest sports bettor, the mastermind behind "the Brain Trust," a shadowy group known for their expertise in beating the Vegas line. Konik had heard that Matthews was a conniver who would do anything to gain an edge. But he was also brilliant, cunning, and charming. And when he asked Konik if he'd like to "make a little money" during the football season, the writer found himself seduced. So began Konik's wild ride ... --From publisher description.

About the author

"The dean of the world's gambling writers,"Michael Konikis the author of six books, including the gaming classicThe Man with the $100,000 Breasts. He's written for numerous publications, includingThe New York Times, Travel + Leisure, andSports Illustrated. On television, Konik has competed in the World Series of Poker and the World Series of Blackjack, and he appears regularly as an expert commentator on FoxSports poker broadcasts. Visit the author at www.michaelkonik.com.