The inaugural PGT Venetian Las Vegas Classic swiftly introduced four thrilling narratives at The Venetian Resort, showcasing big names and impressive numbers. The main $3,300 Main Event attracted 418 entries, generating a prizepool of $1,254,000, while three one-day $5,100 high rollers brought dramatic twists and both familiar and new champions.
#1: Laskowitz Sweeps the Competition
The first $5,100 high roller drew 51 entries, producing a $255,000 prizepool. Although the tournament was filled with renowned names, including Jim Collopy and Jonathan Little at the final table, it was Sam Laskowitz who stole the show. Bulldozing through the final table, he single-handedly eliminated all seven opponents, earning $84,150 and capturing his third career title on the PGT.
| Position | Player | Country | Winnings |
| 1 | Sam Laskowitz | United States | $84,150 |
| 2 | Aaron Messmer | United States | $53,550 |
| 3 | Jim Collopy | United States | $35,700 |
| 4 | Adekunle Olonoh | United States | $25,500 |
| 5 | Peter Mugar | United States | $20,400 |
| 6 | Victoria Livschitz | United States | $15,300 |
| 7 | Jonathan Little | United States | $10,200 |
| 8 | Joey Weissman | United States | $10,200 |
#2: Ausmus Outlasts Song After 2.5 Hours
Reigning PGT Player of the Year Jeremy Ausmus turned up the heat during the second $5,100 high roller. Battling through 62 entries, he climbed from the bottom of the final chip count to triumph over Stephen Song in a grueling heads-up lasting almost 2.5 hours. This win marked his eighth PGT title and pocketed him $99,200.
| Position | Player | Country | Winnings |
| 1 | Jeremy Ausmus | United States | $99,200 |
| 2 | Stephen Song | United States | $62,000 |
| 3 | Jim Collopy | United States | $43,400 |
| 4 | Rick Mechammil | United States | $31,000 |
| 5 | Shannon Shorr | United States | $23,250 |
| 6 | Brock Wilson | United States | $17,050 |
| 7 | Aram Zobian | United States | $12,400 |
#3: Mason's Remarkable Comeback
The final high roller featured the lowest entries (49 entries / $245,000) but introduced a fresh champion. Despite facing formidable opponents like Shannon Shorr, Joao Simao, and Andrew Lichtenberger at the final table, Craig Mason emerged victorious. In an astonishing comeback, Mason overcame a 1:20 chip deficit during heads-up against Lichtenberger, one of the game's most talented players, to secure his first tournament win and $85,750.
| Position | Player | Country | Winnings |
| 1 | Craig Mason | United States | $85,750 |
| 2 | Andrew Lichtenberger | United States | $53,900 |
| 3 | Joao Simao | Brazil | $35,525 |
| 4 | Landon Tice | United States | $25,725 |
| 5 | Bob Buckenmayer | United States | $19,600 |
| 6 | Shannon Shorr | United States | $14,700 |
| 7 | Jim Collopy | United States | $9,800 |
Main Event Climax
The entire mini-festival culminated in the $3,300 Main Event, boasting 418 entries. Jeremy Ausmus made it to this final table, vying for another trophy just days after his previous victory. His run was halted in 7th place by eventual winner Daniel Lee. Lee defeated Lily Kiletto in the heads-up, leaving the tournament with the golden lion trophy and $250,000.
“As a tournament player, you never expect to win. You try, you lose, you keep pushing, and when it happens, it's truly an amazing feeling. Playing against such great players was incredible, and I hope to compete with them in the future,” said the elated champion shortly after his triumph.
| Position | Player | Country | Winnings |
| 1 | Daniel Lee | United States | $250,000 |
| 2 | Lily Kiletto | United States | $170,000 |
| 3 | Doug Lee | Canada | $120,000 |
| 4 | Daniel Marcus | United States | $82,000 |
| 5 | Ryan Leng | United States | $63,000 |
| 6 | Santiago Montes | Colombia | $48,000 |
| 7 | Jeremy Ausmus | United States | $35,000 |
Sources – PGT, X
