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Poker Strategist and 'Theory of Poker' Author David Sklansky Dies at 78

His books brought a math-first style to modern poker strategy.

Overview

  • PokerNews reports he died on March 23 in Las Vegas from heart failure.
  • He authored 18 gambling books, led by the 1978 classic The Theory of Poker.
  • He won three WSOP events in 1982 and 1983, establishing early competitive credibility.
  • His recorded tournament earnings total $1,410,664, including $419,040 for third at the 2006 WPT Borgata Poker Open.
  • Recent years saw limited play with two small cashes in 2024, a 2023 co-authored book with Mason Malmuth, and scrutiny tied to the Brandi Hawbaker saga and a 2026 arrest that resulted in no charges.