A very intellectual player, Howard Lederer is one of the best-known names in poker. Nicknamed “The Professor” because of his general demeanor when playing poker, Howard enjoys playing some of the highest-limit games around. “Anytime I play poker,” Howard has said, “I see it as an opportunity to learn.” Ironically though, this professor doesn’t hold a college degree.

Howard grew up in New Hampshire and left college to become a full-time chess player in New York City. It wasn’t long before his chess nights turned to poker nights at the Mayfair Club. It was the mid-80s, and he lost for a while, but eventually he caught his groove and became a force to be reckoned with. In 1993 he moved to Vegas to focus more clearly on poker. He taught his sister, Annie Duke, how to play, too, and in 1994 they became the first brother and sister to make the final World Series of Poker table at the same time. By 2004, he has won more than $2 million. He has two children.

Fun Facts and Finishes

• In 2003, Howard won first place in the Party Poker Million.
• In 2003, Howard won first place at Bellagio’s Five-Star World Poker Classic.
• In 2002, Howard won first place in the World Poker Tour Finals.
• In 2001, Howard won first place at the WSOP Deuce to Seven.
• In 2000, Howard won first place at the WSOP Omaha 8 or Better.