Against the Rules with Michael Lewis Vegas Sports Bookies on Old-School Betting
98 snips
Dec 17, 2024 
Chris Andrews, a long-time Vegas sports bookie at South Point Hotel Casino, reflects on the evolution of sports betting. Jimmy Vaccaro, a veteran with a wealth of anecdotes, recounts the changes he's seen in the industry. Vinny Magliulo shares his unique journey from dealer to bookie. They discuss the origin of prop bets and why limiting smart bets can harm business. The trio offers a nostalgic look at how betting practices have shifted from traditional methods to today's player-focused wagering, emphasizing the vibrant history of Las Vegas gambling.
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Pittsburgh Bookie Hub
- Chris Andrews grew up in Pittsburgh, a hub for Vegas bookies, in a culturally diverse area.
- The close-knit communities with different ethnicities created an environment where unique rules could thrive.
Jimmy Vaccaro's Start
- Jimmy Vaccaro, also from near Pittsburgh, began as a blackjack dealer and worked in several Vegas casinos, including MGM and Golden Nugget.
- His brother, Sonny Vaccaro, the inspiration for the movie "Air," introduced him to gambling.
Early Gambling Days
- Jimmy Vaccaro recounts his early gambling experience at the Comet News in Braddock, Pennsylvania, a place resembling the movie "The Sting."
- He initially faced credit issues but eventually earned a $200 credit line, a significant achievement for him at the time.