ESPN's coverage hurts the game

[shaniac]

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Notice how the screaming and carrying on is far reduced on WPT broadcasts

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That's because the WPT is filmed in a heavily controlled environment. They show 6 players playing poker in what is essentially a tv-studio; there's makeup and visual effects and the tournament is actually structured AROUND the broadcast.

The WSOP coverage documents a total event, similar to the way Woodstcok documented a rock and roll festival. And, while you might not consider the loutish Scotsman "important at all to the game," he represents a real faction of players who show up at the WSOP: those with no serious intention of winning the tournament but come seeking media attention anyway. If you are a serious poker player, do you really want to see these people stay home next year? I don't.