Derek Ellig

Derek Ellig is a semi-professional poker player based in Los Angeles, known for balancing his deep passion for poker with a challenging career at Microsoft. His journey into advanced tournament strategy began in early 2020 when he joined Pokercode, a platform founded by poker legends Fedor Holz and Matthias Eibinger.

Derek's familiarity with poker dates back long before his Pokercode days. He initially honed his skills in heads-up SNGs on Full Tilt Poker and played live cash games, relying on forums like 2+2 for knowledge. The pivotal moment came when Nick Shulman's commentary on a WSOP stream on Poker Go opened his eyes to advanced tournament strategy, prompting him to dig deeper.

Joining Pokercode as an early member was a significant inflection point. Derek credits the platform for refining his preflop ranges, helping him avoid tough spots and improve his responses to 3bets. He absorbed postflop strategy through videos and solver sessions by various coaches, filling critical gaps in his game. He emphasizes the dramatic differences between cash and tournament strategy that he learned over time.

Despite time constraints from his professional commitments, Derek has achieved notable wins. He secured a 2nd place finish in the ACR OSS $1m Guarantee High Roller and won a live tournament at the Bicycle Casino in Los Angeles. He candidly shares his journey through live tournament vlogs on his YouTube channel, adding authenticity to his accomplishments.

Derek's ability to balance a demanding role at Microsoft with poker, a happy marriage, a variety of pets, and a gaming hobby is remarkable. His dedication to continuous improvement is driven by the Pokercode community, which he credits for fostering humility and commitment.

Beyond the tables, Derek recently launched a YouTube channel and a poker podcast, expanding his footprint in content creation. These platforms allow him to share his experiences and connect with the poker community, further solidifying his presence as a thoughtful and engaged player.

Derek's advice for budding players is straightforward: decide how seriously you want to engage with poker. If it's more than a casual hobby, dive deep, surround yourself with motivated and like-minded individuals, and remain a humble learner. His journey underscores the importance of community, continuous education, and dedication.