Terrance ‘TJ’ Reid has built an enviable reputation in tournaments worldwide by showing up for the grind and delivering deep runs, earning respect from players and industry voices who value results over noise.
In the past two years, Reid has become one of the most-watched tournament players on the scene, a trajectory underscored by his composure and aggressive play under pressure at the recent WSOP Paradise Super Main Event final table.
The PokerOrg live event manager’s epic run and $3,000,000 payday were met with broad support from fans, players, and co-workers, a reaction that was clearly a bit overwhelming for even Reid himself.
“The heartwarming outpouring of affection and people rooting for me to take it down meant a lot to me,” says Reid.
“I've dedicated a large portion of my life to this game, both on the felt and behind the scenes. I’ve tried to carry myself in a way that I can be proud of in my relationships in the industry.
“I also try to be as tough a player as possible to play against. But I don't think that means you have to be mean out there. You can still have a good reputation and know how to treat people.”
Watch the full episode above now or check below for links to the audio podcast.
Tournaments versus cash
Reid was quick to confess to PokerOrg that he’s fallen in love with tournament play over a possibly more profitable career in high-stakes cash.
“Tournaments definitely have my heart. I like the competition. I like the idea of a winner. I like that it's a level playing field where you never know who you'll be sitting with. It feels less predatory than cash games, where there is more handshaking and backdoor deals to get into the games, whereas tournaments are public entry. If you want to play, you put up your money, sit down, and battle with the best.
"I think if I were to choose the most profitable route, though, cash games would still be the right choice. But that’s the age-old debate, right? Which is better – cash or tournaments?
"Personally, I love tournaments so much more. And I think if you're going to play poker for a living, you better love it.”
The Interview — Terrance ‘TJ’ Reid
Highlights from our exclusive in-depth conversation with Reid include:
- Rebuilding life from scratch after leaving a religion that banned gambling
- Early years in poker media and reporting
- The phenom who inspired Reid’s game the most
- Studying poker with coaches and close friends
- First major score: 2024 Run Good Series Main Event
- Playing the highest buy-in of his life at WSOP Paradise
- Approach to the Super Main Event’s early stages
- Make or break hand vs. Shaun Deeb
- Which two superstars invested in Reid’s action?
- What’s next for Reid on the tournament circuit?
- Will Reid continue as PokerOrg’s live events manager?
- And much more…
Watch Terrance Reid’s full interview with PokerOrg’s Craig Tapscott in the video above, or listen on Spotify or Apple podcasts.
Check out more in-depth interviews with some of poker’s biggest names below, including Esther ‘Etay’ Taylor, Chris Moneymaker, and Daniel Negreanu.
