David “Chip” Reese is widely regarded as one of the most naturally gifted and respected players in the history of the game. Known for his calm demeanor, impeccable judgment, and legendary performance in high-stakes cash games, Chip set a new standard for professionalism at the table. Despite never seeking the spotlight, his influence on the game was undeniable, and his peers consistently ranked him among the best to ever play.
From dominating mixed games to mentoring some of the greatest players of later generations, Chip Reese left a lasting legacy that transcends tournaments or trophies. His career remains a benchmark of excellence, blending intelligence, patience, and a deep psychological understanding of opponents.
Personal Life
David Edward Reese, known to the world as “Chip,” was born on March 28, 1951, in Dayton, Ohio. From a young age, he demonstrated an exceptional intellect and competitiveness, excelling in both academics and strategy games. At just six years old, he reportedly read a volume of the World Book Encyclopedia cover to cover while recovering from rheumatic fever—an early sign of the discipline and intellect that would define his life.
Reese attended Dartmouth College, where he earned a degree in economics and considered pursuing law at Stanford. However, his path changed dramatically when he made a detour to Las Vegas and discovered his immense talent for cards. That decision marked the beginning of one of the most respected careers in the game’s history.
Away from the tables, Chip was known for his calm, thoughtful demeanor and for being deeply private. He was a devoted father to three children and was admired not only for his poker skills but also for his humility, integrity, and kindness. His balance between personal life and high-stakes intensity set him apart in a competitive world often marked by volatility.
Beginning in Poker
Chip Reese’s path into professional poker wasn’t planned—it was serendipitous. After graduating from Dartmouth with an economics degree, he intended to attend Stanford Law School. But during a road trip to California, he made a stop in Las Vegas. What was supposed to be a brief detour turned into a lifelong calling.
Reese quickly realized that his natural ability to read people, his deep understanding of odds, and his calm temperament gave him a significant edge at the tables. He began playing professionally in the early 1970s, gravitating toward cash games rather than tournaments. Within a short time, he had earned a reputation among Vegas pros as a prodigious young talent who could play—and win—against anyone.
While many chased tournament glory, Reese found his niche in high-stakes cash games, particularly in mixed formats. He became a regular at the most elite tables, earning admiration from even the most seasoned veterans. His smooth transition from Ivy League graduate to poker savant laid the foundation for a career marked not by showmanship, but by quiet, consistent excellence.
Greatest Achievements in Poker
Although Chip Reese is best known for his dominance in high-stakes cash games, his tournament record is equally impressive—marked by deep runs, prestigious titles, and universal respect.
World Series of Poker (WSOP) Bracelets:
| Year | Event | Buy-in | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1978 | Seven-Card Stud | $1,000 | $19,200 |
| 1982 | Seven-Card Stud Split | $5,000 | $92,500 |
| 2006 | H.O.R.S.E. Championship | $50,000 | $1,716,000 |
His victory in the 2006 $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. event is especially legendary. Designed to be the ultimate test of all-around poker skill, the tournament attracted the best players in the world. Reese’s win, after a grueling final table that lasted nearly seven hours, solidified his status as the most respected mixed-game player of his generation.
Other Highlights:
- Inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 1991, at the age of 40—the youngest inductee at the time.
- Widely regarded as the greatest cash game player of his era, particularly in games like Seven-Card Stud and Mixed Games.
- Played regularly in the highest-stakes games in Las Vegas, including the legendary Big Game at the Bellagio.
- Credited with mentoring and influencing a generation of top-level pros through both his skill and sportsmanship.
Chip Reese’s career is a testament to mastery, longevity, and balance. He didn’t seek fame—he earned it through brilliance and respect at the highest levels of the game.
Strategies in Poker and Playing Style
Chip Reese was often called a “natural” at the table, not because he relied on instinct alone, but because of his unmatched ability to read players, control tempo, and adapt his strategy across multiple formats. His success wasn’t driven by aggression or flashy plays—it came from consistency, patience, and deeply analytical thinking.
Hallmarks of His Style:
- Adaptability: Reese was a master of all poker variants. He seamlessly transitioned between Seven-Card Stud, Omaha, Hold’em, and more, making him one of the most complete players ever.
- Psychological Understanding: He was renowned for reading opponents with uncanny precision. He rarely tilted, remained emotionally steady, and used his observations to gradually dismantle opponents.
- Risk Management: Known for his discipline, Reese didn’t chase marginal edges unnecessarily. He picked the right moments, understood bankroll control, and approached poker as a lifelong pursuit—not a sprint.
- Cash Game Discipline: Unlike many tournament specialists, Reese built his reputation in the most demanding cash games in the world, where long-term profitability requires deep technical knowledge and elite emotional control.
His strategy wasn’t about overpowering the table—it was about making the fewest mistakes, understanding every game better than his opponents, and never letting ego interfere with decision-making.
Poker Books
While Chip Reese never authored a poker book of his own, his influence on poker literature is significant through his contribution to Super/System 2, the sequel to Doyle Brunson’s iconic strategy guide.
Key Contribution:
- Super/System 2 (2004): Reese authored the chapter on Seven-Card Stud, a game in which he was widely considered the best in the world. In this chapter, he provided deep strategic insights, breaking down advanced concepts like implied odds, hand reading, betting patterns, and table image specific to stud games. His writing was detailed and respected for its clarity and depth, helping countless players improve their stud game.
Reese’s analytical and methodical approach made his chapter a standout in the book. Even though he wasn’t a prolific writer, this single contribution has remained one of the most referenced resources for serious students of Seven-Card Stud.
Notable TV Show Appearances
Unlike many of his contemporaries, Chip Reese wasn’t a regular fixture on televised poker, primarily because he preferred the high-stakes cash games away from the spotlight. However, when he did appear, his presence was quietly commanding and respected by peers and commentators alike.
Notable Appearances:
- High Stakes Poker (GSN): Reese appeared during the early seasons of this iconic show, sitting alongside legends like Doyle Brunson and Barry Greenstein. Though not the most vocal at the table, his calculated decisions and composed demeanor stood out. He often engaged in large pots with a calm confidence that contrasted sharply with the more flamboyant players of the era.
- World Series of Poker Broadcasts: His final table appearance at the inaugural $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. event in 2006, which he won, was widely covered and highlighted on ESPN. The win solidified his reputation as one of the greatest all-around poker players of all time.
Reese’s legacy on TV isn’t built on catchphrases or theatrics—it’s built on quiet dominance, humility, and technical mastery that spoke for itself.
Most Iconic Hands and TV Moments
Chip Reese’s poker career is filled with moments that showcase his exceptional skill and calm demeanor. Here are some of his most iconic hands and television appearances:
2006 WSOP $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. Championship Victory
In 2006, Reese triumphed in the inaugural $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. event at the World Series of Poker, a tournament designed to test a player’s versatility across multiple poker variants. The final table was a marathon, with Reese and Andy Bloch engaging in a heads-up battle that lasted over seven hours, the longest in WSOP history at the time. Reese’s victory earned him $1,784,640 and solidified his reputation as one of the game’s greatest.
Interview on Poker Superstars
In an interview on “Poker Superstars,” Reese discussed his approach to the game, emphasizing the importance of discipline and psychological insight. His thoughtful analysis provided viewers with a glimpse into the mind of a poker legend.
FAQ about Chip Reese
What was Chip Reese’s net worth?
At the time of his passing in 2007, Chip Reese’s estimated net worth was around $10 million. This included his tournament winnings, cash game earnings—especially from high-stakes games in Las Vegas—and his part-ownership in the Bellagio’s poker room operations and other ventures.
How much did Chip Reese win in live tournaments?
He accumulated over $3.5 million in live tournament winnings, according to the Hendon Mob. His most significant victory was the $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. event at the 2006 WSOP, where he won $1,784,640.
What made Chip Reese so respected among poker players?
Reese was admired for his calm demeanor, strategic depth, and long-term success in high-stakes cash games. Many legends, including Doyle Brunson and Barry Greenstein, considered him the best all-around poker player of their era.
Did Chip Reese write any poker books?
Although he didn’t author any solo books, Reese contributed a widely acclaimed chapter on Seven-Card Stud in Doyle Brunson’s Super/System, which is considered a foundational text in poker strategy.
How did Chip Reese die?
Chip Reese passed away in his sleep on December 4, 2007, due to pneumonia-related complications. His death was sudden and shocked the poker world.
Is Chip Reese in the Poker Hall of Fame?
Yes. In 1991, at the age of 40, Reese became the youngest person ever inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame at the time.
Was Chip Reese more of a cash game or tournament player?
While he had several notable tournament results, Reese was primarily known for his dominance in high-stakes cash games, where his skills truly shined for decades.
Did he play online poker?
Chip Reese passed away before online poker truly exploded into the mainstream post-2010. He was known for his live play and preferred the psychological and interpersonal aspects of in-person games.
