Tom Bostic

Did anyone else watch the World Poker Tour episode last night? I feel the PCA from the Bahamas featured one of the best heads-up matches I have witnessed on television (next to the H.O.R.S.E event 2006). I have met both Ryan and Isaac and their talents are undeniable. I was glad to see them showcased as they bluffed and re-bluffed each other out of several pots. Both super-smart young players prove why poker is flourishing even in the wake of the UIGA. I figured I would share an small insight on both players that I recently wrote about. For any of you attending the WSOP this year, be sure to pick up the official program, where this content along with several other rising star profiles can be found in the article "The Class of 2007...In Search of the Next Jeff Madsen".

Ryan Daut
New Jersey's quintessential native son may have the biggest jump start on the competition of anyone on this list. An online cash game player, Daut hit it big in the Bahamas in January, taking home a WPT title and over $1.5 million. With the momentum from the win, he discovered that he can be a consistent winner at some of the highest stakes online. As a result of his success--much to the disappointment of his parents-- he will not be returning to Penn State next semester to pursue his graduate degree. Focusing his current efforts on poker, Daut secured a WSOP Main Event appearance when he won a seat through a $33 plus re-buy online qualifier.

Isaac Haxton
Five-deuce. To most it doesn't sound like a hand that requires much thought, but sometimes Isaac Haxton can not help himself. Behind long black hair, dark sunglasses and friendly demeanor lies a restless mind that is always looking for a way to win. If Haxton is in a pot, expect a fight. Known to fire a fourth raise before the flop with nothing, or three-barrel bluff all the way to the river, Haxton plays like a man who refuses to lose. In the Caribbean, his play was brighter than a supernova. Playing dominating poker for five days, Haxton outlasted all but fellow internet player Ryan Daut. The disappointing second place finish didn't deter Isaac from packing up his bags in Boston and joining the tournament trail.