INGLEWOOD — The latest Mega Millions lottery drawing did not yield any jackpot winners, which has pushed the estimated pot for the upcoming drawing to a whopping $740 million. Lottery officials revealed on Saturday morning, December 14, 2024, after the previous evening's drawing, where no tickets matched all six numbers.
The drawing on Friday, December 13, saw numbers 36, 43, 52, 58, 65, with the Mega number being 16. Despite no one hitting the jackpot, there were four lucky tickets sold across the country, matching five out of the six numbers drawn, albeit missing the Mega number. These tickets were sold in California, Massachusetts, New York, and Vermont.
The two tickets awarded $1 million each were sold to players from Massachusetts and New York, whereas the ticket sold in Vermont was even more lucrative, amounting to $3 million since it matched the five numbers along with the Megaplier. The ticket from California was worth $359,992 and was purchased at a liquor store located on the 300 block of East South Street, Long Beach.
The excitement around lotteries like Mega Millions has significantly grown as the jackpots swell, drawing more players hoping for life-changing prizes. The next drawing is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, December 17, and the urgency to participate is palpable, particularly with such high stakes on the line.
While this year has been extraordinary for lottery players, the enormous jackpots have even led to unclaimed prizes. A notable case occurred earlier this year where one player won $1.1 billion but has yet to come forward. And with the December 13 drawing being marked by superstition—being Friday the 13th—it may prompt players to engage with the lottery even more fervently, hoping for luck to be on their side.
The current estimated jackpot for January is set at $740 million, making the lump-sum cash payout worth approximately $322 million after taxes. This enticing amount has already drawn the attention of millions who may choose to gamble on their chance to win big.
For those who are unsure how to play Mega Millions, the rules remain relatively straightforward. Players select six numbers: five white balls selected from 1 to 70 and one gold Mega Ball from 1 to 25. But if the odds seem intimidating, players have the option of using Quick Pick or Easy Pick, where the numbers are generated randomly.
For just $1, participants can also add the Megaplier feature, enhancing non-jackpot winnings by 2X, 3X, 4X, or even 5X, depending on the drawn Megaplier ball.
Lottery tickets are accessible at gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores, among other locations. Some states also provide online purchasing options through platforms like Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Individuals wishing to play need to be at least 18 years old, with age limits varying by state.
Despite the thrill of potentially winning big, lottery players are reminded of the importance of responsible gambling. Enthusiastic players should only invest what they can afford to lose and remain vigilant about gambling addiction risks.
The upcoming drawing offers not just hope but also anticipation as players dream of the vast possibilities the Mega Millions jackpot could provide. It allows for the chance to envision life beyond the everyday grind, igniting imaginations everywhere from small towns to larger cities as they await their lucky moment.
While the jackpot remains unclaimed for now, the hope remains alive, allowing millions to dream big. Keep your tickets close because the next drawing could change someone's life forever.