I will providing a complete report from behind the scenes of the BEST DAMN POKER SHOW to be aired on FOX in late October. Twenty-four contestants were invited to San Manual Casino in Highland, California. Contestants could gain an invite through video submission, an online freeroll, or live auditions in Las Vegas during the WSOP. I was on TEAM HELLMUTH, and this will be a three part post.

PART ONE

A) Phil Hellmuth was everything I thought he would be. He insists on being the center of attention and likes to play the role of the baller. He is the kind of guy that buys champagne all night, then reminds everyone the next day that he bought champagne all night and how much it cost. Naturally, he made us wear Poker Brat clothing attire during the broadcast as TEAM HELLMUTH to which Annie inquired, "How much is he paying you guys?'
B) Phil stated that during this years 50K HORSE that Layne Flack held a large stake in Scotty Nyugen and that he attended filming of the final table because Layne owed Phil money, and it was ‘overdue’.
C) One of the members of TEAM HELLMUTH inquired about Tom Dwan’s challenge to Phil to a heads up challenge. Phil stated that he would NOT play Tom heads up simply because Phil had nothing to gain and everything to lose. Phil stated, and I quote, ‘all I can win is money’, as he implied that Tom stood to gain more by defeating Phil in a match. (bragging rights, notoriety, press coverage?)
D) One of the members of TEAM HELLMUTH asked Phil if the wrecking of the UB race car was a publicity stunt. Naturally, Phil denied that the wreck was a publicity stunt, but his denial was unconvincing. I remain unsure and skeptical. He did say though that the film speed was sped up (to create an illusion that the wreck was more violent?)
E) At one point, there was a miscommunication as to the pairings in round two competitions between TEAM HELLMUTH and TEAM DUKE. Phil was not present at this time as Mark ‘Poker Ho’ Kroon represented TEAM HELLMUTH. Mark stated that the pairings WERE NOT what he and Phil had submitted. Annie Duke’s point was simply that the submissions were ‘blind’ and that TEAM HELLMUTH had no point. Matt Savage ruled (correctly in my unbiased opinion) that the matches would continue as scheduled. After the ruling, Annie stated in front of many on the set that ‘Phil is such a douche’, and I playfully replied, ‘Annie, that’s my coach you’re talking about!’ Annie then asked me point blank, 'Scotty, are you telling me Phil Hellmuth IS NOT a douchebag?' I replied simply. 'I like Phil. and I like you Annie. I think much more of you both NOW that I've gotten to know guys'
F) TEAM HELLMUTH then met informally on the set based on the question of the pairings. I told Phil that Annie said he was a douchebag (I just couldn't resist stirring that pot). Phil replied that he felt Annie had been 'acting crazy lately' and that Mark was in a 'tough spot' as Annie was both Mark and Shawn Rice's 'BOSS'. (Yes, it was comical.)


Ultimate Bet’s coordination of the whole affair could be characterized as ‘lacking’ in typical UB fashion. I was sure that I was in group two during the second day’s play, but my comrades on TEAM HELLMUTH felt I was mistaken. (I was correct). Inquiries by the contestants as to what the prize packages being offered were met by vagueness and ultimately, UB trimmed the prize packages from what was being offered in Season One of the show. Six Aruba packages were offered in Season One (for the winning team) and a Main Event package for the winner (last year Tracy Scala). Only three Aruba packages were offered this year and Ultimate Bet (in my never humble opinion) truly NEVER was forthcoming in this regard despite MANY inquiries from members of both teams.

As a contestant, I was required to 'be available' approxiamately 40 hours over three days (including a 16 hour day the day before the final table). I feel that the scheldue was overwhelming for the contestants AND that this was a result of a 'lack of coordination' on Ultimate Bet's part. I would, in fact go on to make the final table. There were many hurt feelings among the contestants as many of them had much invested in the show.

I plan to post PART TWO NO LATER than tommorow morning.

Good luck and ENJOY!

Scott Clark

cliff notes

UB fail at everything they do.

How did you get on? did you win the freeroll or do an audition/video? I know of one other guy who was on there and he couldnt talk about the show too much other than him saying he was dissapointed with how he didnt make the final table or something...how it was a bit unfair

Did you play with a guy named the Tonz? Tony wind i think is his name? I saw the video he made - http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=w265ENGqgHQ

and then some interview

http://www.pokerlistings.com/thetonz...how-spot-30273

if oyu have a clip can you put it up so i can watch it. The ones i have seen have been pretty hilarious. The guy the previous year did a good one too - http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=dxSAqhkUnVc

As a member of TEAM HELLMUTH, did you receive any expert coaching tips?

OP was definitely not clear on the level of river poppery.

awwww

(gags)

Does anybody have any backroom info on Season 1?

After what I saw in season one, I was curious about the two Brothas that got voted out.....

UB is the devil imo

Sad...

PART TWO

I made the show through the audition process at the WSOP in Las Vegas in July. Over the past year or so, I have been an avid UB player for many reasons I choose not to list or argue here. My house, my computer, my money and ultimately, my choice. AND my answer is a resounding NO to any question/inquiry/accusations to the question IF I am a ‘UB insider’. I understand the poker community’s skepticism based on how UB runs it’s business…and how Season One of the BDPS played out.

The audition process was basically as follows: fill out a questionnaire, wait to be called for an initial on camera interview, then hope to be called for the final on camera interview with Annie and Phil. I was contacted and informed that I had made the BDPS sometime in Mid August. I would be a liar if I said I was not flattered.

A) We met as a group for a formal dinner the first night. We were split into tables of four tables of six contestants and this was to be the seating assignments for Day One of a three day competition. The format for Day One’s play could be characterized as a Turbo Sit and Go. One player at my table claimed we were only afforded approximately 30 hands to have our play reviewed by coaches.
B) Day One ended with a draft in which 9 players were picked by Phil and Annie. I was drafted fourth on TEAM HELLMUTH which basically ‘seeded’ me as Phil’s fourth pick to in the order of his preference.
C) DAY TWO was 3 tables of 3 members from each team. One player from each table from each team would be eliminated LEAVING a final team of 6 players on TEAM HELLMUTH and TEAM DUKE. Contestants were afforded ‘more play’ than DAY ONE, but not really much more. A point system was used to gage the winning team of DAY TWO’s play. The winning team’s players would begin the final table 110K and the losing team members would start with 90K.
D) Basically DAY TWO ended in a tie. A bad beat in the final hand of the final table in favor of TEAM DUKE would cause said tie. To start the final table with 110K would be a marked advantage and offer what I equate to a 20-25% advantage.
E) Members of both teams went their separate ways to meet and decide WHO would, in fact, represent each team at the final table. Phil decided that each member of his team would have a say and vote, but ultimately the final decision would be his and Mark’s. The meeting was painful, long, and many feelings were hurt.
F) I was the first to speak at the ‘Final Table meeting’, and I tried to set the tone. I included my self in my Top 3 picks, and I was brief. I basically stated that I would accept the final decision, and that I had a good time regardless of what the final decision was. Unfortunately, my lead was not followed by all players present, and it turned into quite a scene. Finally, I was chosen to play the final table.
G) Day Two ended after 1AM and we were required to be report for a shuttle ride from the San Bernardino Hilton to San Manuel Casino at 9AM the following morning.

I met Tony Wind at the show, and YES, he was a fantastic kid and liked by all. We called him ‘little Tony’ as there was another Tony on the show (Big Tony). Tony Campagno is a former body builder business owner from Long Island. He could be described classically as a ‘man’s man’. Big Tony was probably my favorite contestant in the group, he possessed much poker skill and experience, and I found him to be a ‘stand up guy’ and a total class act.

PART 3 forthcoming

Good luck and ENJOY!

Scott Clark

This is good to hear...and when does this air? Now I have somebody to legitimately root for.

UB is going to be pissed that you posted spoilers, they read 2p2...

Then they know that we hate them and dont care.

what spoilers? I see no spoilers...maybe in section D, but not enough to put anybody into a b!tch-fit mode.

Clearly a joke...sad you didn't get it

As the host of this season of the BDPS season 2 -- and a new UB pro -- i was on set for the duration of the shooting last week. And without getting into the specifics of details better left unspoiled for the viewing audience, i do need to correct some misinformation here.

You said UB trimmed the prizes from last year, which is untrue. UB only offered 3 Aruba seats last year, not 6. I would know -- i played the final table and won one of the 3 packages.

In fact, UB ADDED a 2nd main event seat this season, in addition to the 3 Aruba packages. This is why the production staff was not 'forthcoming' until the final table was set -- this additional prize was a bonus from last year, meant to be a positive surprise for the lucky 6 who made it that far.

As far as the 'overwheming schedule,' i hardly think that anyone minded a few long days to have a 4-in-24 shot into the WSOP or Aruba main events. Plenty of other people would kill for a chance at a freeroll like that!

Lastly, I'm a bit confused why you are disclosing all the details of the show months before it airs. Having worked in television for many years now, I can tell you that its extremely unprofessional to disclose these types of details about a show before it airs. It really discredits a lot of the hard work and effort that all of the production, cast, crew, and other staff (UB and otherwise) put into creating the new TV series that you seem so intent on spoiling right now.

Just some thoughts to mull over before you decide to continue disclosing every detail of the final conflict and drama of this show.

-hd.

October 27 on FSN is when the show debuts.

Anything or anyone associated with the UB brand or Annie Dyke deserves to be shat on. Case closed, end of story. More spoilers please.

FYN

UB may suck, but Hollywood Dave is about the most annoying person ever. Fits they would have him represent them. I did laugh at the 4 in 24 chance, was 1 in 6 just too simple and you had to show everyone your genius math skills? UB now has the trifecta of HD, PH, and AD, is someone in their marketing trying to sink that ship or what?

who is hollywood dave?
edit: and what the hell is a best damn poker show?

lol at 'Hollywood' Dave...known UB shill.

If you would like to know more 'about the man'. Heres his biography at his web site. I just hate the thought of directing ANYONE to give your site a hit. Trust me, my penis knows more about poker than 'Hollywood'.

http://www.hollywooddave.com/whoishd.php

AND another thing David, I did observe you and Annie speaking of me today on UB as Annie played a Sit and Go.

Dave? You just wanna fist fight on tape? Get you some Scotty Clark!

Now THAT would make great television!

It would be funny if UB didn't have them sign a non-disclosure form.

Dave's the bad boy of blackjack, doesn't everyone know that?

Best Damn Poker Show - found on Pokertube for sure. It was a reality show with Phil Hellmuth and Annie Duke acting like fools as they select two teams from a field of contestants that qualified thru UB, "auditions", celebrities, or by being a spokemodel from a sister site (last year, Serinda Swan was a contestant). The team format encourages collusion, as the teams earn points based on their finish to earn the Aruba and WSOP prizes.