Evan Sandberg secured the top prize at the 20th Anniversary Arizona State Poker Championship, outlasting 4,018 entrants at Talking Stick Resort and earning $627,050 in a record-setting field
The Arizona State Poker Championship marked its 20th anniversary with a record turnout at Talking Stick Resort, drawing 4,018 players for its $1,100 buy-in main event. After four starting flights and three days of play, Evan Sandberg emerged as the tournament champion, taking home $627,050. The event highlighted the continued growth of live poker in Arizona and set a new benchmark for the series.
Final Table Results
The final table featured ten players, all from the United States, with payouts reflecting the event's large prize pool. Sandberg entered the final session with a narrow chip lead and maintained his position through a series of eliminations. The top finishers were:
- 1st: Evan Sandberg – $627,050
- 2nd: Jared Rogers – $369,937
- 3rd: Brandon Conrad – $224,804
- 4th: John Riordan – $140,214
- 5th: Sergio Segura – $91,498
- 6th: Moussa Haddad – $63,495
- 7th: Jonathan Roeder – $47,133
- 8th: Hill Kerby – $37,143
- 9th: Ronnie Bardah – $30,566
- 10th: John Phan – $25,801
Sandberg's victory represents his largest career cash, despite already having over $2.5 million in live tournament earnings. The final hand saw Sandberg make a full house against Jared Rogers, securing the title after a competitive heads-up battle.
Key Moments and Player Reactions
Throughout the final table, Sandberg emphasized the importance of mental resilience and focus, especially when facing setbacks. Early eliminations included John Phan and Ronnie Bardah, followed by Hill Kerby and Jonathan Roeder. Moussa Haddad exited in sixth place after a strong showing and vocal support from the rail. Brandon Conrad eliminated two players before falling to Sandberg in third, setting up the decisive heads-up match. After the final hand, both Sandberg and Rogers exchanged a handshake and hug, reflecting the sportsmanship at the table.
Impact on Arizona Poker Scene
The 2026 Arizona State Poker Championship's turnout and prize pool underscore the state's growing reputation as a destination for major live poker events. Talking Stick Resort continues to serve as a central venue for large-scale tournaments, attracting both local and out-of-state players. The event's structure, featuring multiple starting flights and a deep payout schedule, contributed to its appeal and record participation.
Understanding tournament prize pools is essential for poker players and fans. In large-field events like the Arizona State Poker Championship, the total prize pool is determined by multiplying the number of entries by the buy-in, minus any administrative fees. Payouts are then distributed according to a predetermined schedule, with the largest shares reserved for final table finishers. This structure rewards deep runs and incentivizes participation, especially when fields reach record sizes as seen in this year's championship.
