James Obst Eliminated in 10th Place ($115,447)

Chad Holloway

Level 19

No-Limit Hold'em

James Obst opened for 50,000 and was met by a three-bet to 135,000 from Allen Kessler in the small blind. The big folded, Obst called, and it was heads-up action to the flop. Kessler quickly continued for 175,000, and Obst paused for a few moments before making the call.

When the appeared on the turn, Kessler announced that he was all in for 710,000. Obst, who only had 610,000 or so, hit the tank for a solid six minutes. He seem pained by the decision and his lips could be seen moving as if he were talking it over with himself. Eventually he whispered, "Call."

Kessler:
Obst:

Both players had flopped top pair, but of course Kessler's kicker had him out in front. Obst began to get out of his seat and watched helplessly as the useless blanked on the river. Obst will take home $115,447 for his tenth-place finish.