November Nine Player Focus: David Rheem

David Rheem was undoubtedly the most recognisable face of the November Nine.

The 28 year-old, nicknamed ‘Chino’, had live tournament winnings of over $700,000 and since he first appeared on the circuit in 2005 has enjoyed a fine WSOP history.

Los Angeles resident Rheem has 5 previous World Series cashes to his name, his best performance being a 2nd in the 2006 $1,000 NLH re-buys. He lost heads-up to Allen Cunningham but still took home $327,981 for his sterling efforts.

See below for the finale of their heads-up battle:

Rheem also made a final table this year (the $5,000 Mixed Hold’Em), eventually busting in 5th to earn himself $93,624.

Missed the WSOP? Never mind - get yourself over to the Irish Open for as little as five bux:

He is not just a World Series specialist, however, and has taken down 3 Bellagio Cup events as well as final tabling the 2005 EPT Grand Final (coming 3rd for $10,129).

‘Chino’ has clearly come a long way from his humble beginnings in Florida, grinding the low levels in the Seminole Hollywood Casino during the early 2000’s soon after he turned 18. His time in Hollywood, FL has been heavily scrutinised recently and an article in the South Florida Sun Sentinel recently brought to light apparent past criminal convictions (see here).

The reporter, Nick Sortal, wrote that: “Eight years ago in Broward County, Rheem was convicted of dealing in stolen property and burglary, both felonies, as well as larceny and possession of marijuana, court records show. He was sentenced to four months jail time and 30 months probation.”

“He also failed to appear in court on a 2003 misdemeanour trespassing charge in Hollywood (Florida), according to state criminal records, leading to a court order for his arrest. The warrant for his arrest remains active.”

Rheem has since been defended by WSOP Communications Director Seth Palansky. He said of Rheem’s conviction: “It's basically the odds of society. Not an unusual circumstance.”

“There's baseball, football players who do break the law, do their time, then return to the field. He has the same constitutional right as anyone else.”

Nevertheless, Rheem has been defended by the poker community and is widely regarded as one of the most cordial and humble players on the circuit.