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Player hits ‘unforgettable’ jackpot on $5 slot machine bet at Sacramento casino

A longtime lottery player’s luck finally changed in the Maryland Powerball, winning them a big prize.
A longtime lottery player’s luck finally changed in the Maryland Powerball, winning them a big prize. Getty Images/iStockphoto

A gambler at Thunder Valley Casino Resort near Sacramento hit a $100,677 jackpot on a 10-cent slot machine, casino officials reported.

The player won a progressive jackpot on a $5 bet on a “Dragon Link: Panda Magic” slot machine Wednesday, May 27, the casino said.

“Every jackpot creates excitement on our casino floor, and it is always fun to see a guest experience that kind of unforgettable moment,” said Dawn Clayton, general manager of Thunder Valley Casino Resort. “Wins like this are part of what makes Thunder Valley such a special place for our guests every day of the week.”

Thunder Valley Casino Resort at 1200 Athens Ave. in Lincoln has 3,500 slot machines and 89 table games. It is about 35 miles northeast of Sacramento.

Many people can gamble or play games of chance without harm. However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.

If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website.

This story was originally published May 28, 2026 at 10:35 AM.

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Don Sweeney
The Sacramento Bee
916-321-1028
Don Sweeney has been a newspaper reporter and editor in California for more than 35 years. He is a service reporter based at The Sacramento Bee.
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