The winner receives bragging rights and a NAPT Main Event spot
The first-ever NAPT Golden Player of the Series competition attracted a large turnout during the RGPS Tunica stop, with players battling it out for a prestigious prize package worth $10,000. Participants earned leaderboard points based on their tournament cashes throughout the series, and the winner would receive a $5,300 NAPT Main Event Seat, $2,900 in hotel and lodging expenses, and $1,800 for additional costs.
Michael Johns emerged as the winner of the series, claiming victory after an impressive run. Johns secured six cashes, made three final tables, and clinched a first-place finish, making him the main player of the inaugural Golden Player of the Series title. His success in the competition came down to an amazing race, keeping the tournament interesting until the final day.
After securing his victory, Johns reflected on the achievement, expressing his excitement about how everything had come together. “This day is a perfect day,” he said. “I told my friend I had a shot at it, and to see it happen is just so exciting.”
The competition was fierce, particularly toward the end, with Johns battling against fellow top competitors Preston McEwen and Joshua Turner. Although none of the top five players cashed in the main event, Johns and McEwen found themselves head-to-head at the final table in the $200 Closer event. Despite moments where McEwen gained the upper hand, Johns fought back, ultimately securing the top spot when McEwen finished in sixth place.
The series concluded with McEwen praising Johns, calling him a “very nice kid and a great player” who deserved the win. Johns now looks ahead to participating in the NAPT Main Event, the largest buy-in of his poker career, while McEwen plans to chase another shot at the leaderboard in future events.
