Stanford Wong
Childhood
Little is known about Wong’s early life, as he has kept much of his personal history private. However, his academic background reveals a sharp analytical mind. He earned a Ph.D. in finance from Stanford University while teaching finance courses at San Francisco State University.
Career
Wong’s gambling career began in 1964 when he started playing blackjack. Dissatisfied with academia, he famously accepted a $1 salary in his final teaching term to avoid faculty meetings and focus on gambling.
His book Professional Blackjack (1975) became a cornerstone for advantage players. He also developed the Blackjack Analyzer, one of the first commercially available blackjack odds software programs.
Wong popularized "wonging"—a technique where players avoid betting until the count is favorable. This strategy led casinos to implement "No Mid-Shoe Entry" rules.
Beyond blackjack, Wong explored craps and video poker. His book Wong on Dice (2005) claimed that controlled dice throwing could beat craps, though this remains controversial.
Personal life
Wong adopted his pen name when "Nevada Smith" was unavailable. A friend suggested "Stanford" (his alma mater) and "Wong" for an exotic touch.
He lives in La Jolla, California, with his wife. They have two college-educated, married children. His publishing company, Pi Yee Press, was based in Las Vegas but dissolved after 2017.
Revenue
While exact figures are undisclosed, Wong’s income streams include:
- Book sales (Professional Blackjack, Wong on Dice, etc.)
- Software (Blackjack Analyzer)
- Publishing (Current Blackjack News)
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Subscriptions to his website, BJ21
Interesting facts
- Wong was part of an advantage-play team targeting casino tournaments.
- He was inducted into the Blackjack Hall of Fame.
- His newsletter, Current Blackjack News, was a top resource for professionals.
- The "Post of the Month" feature on his website awards $100 to the best contributor.
Legacy
Wong revolutionized the blackjack strategy with his books and software. His name is now a verb ("wonging") in gambling circles. His work continues to influence professional players worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
Wonging is a strategy where a player observes a blackjack game without betting until the count becomes favorable, then joins only during advantageous situations.
Wong claimed it was possible in Wong on Dice, but many experts remain skeptical, as dice control lacks the mathematical backing of card counting.
No, his real name is John Ferguson. "Stanford Wong" is a pseudonym.
The company dissolved after 2017, but Wong’s books remain in circulation.
It remains a resource for blackjack players, with free and subscriber-only sections.
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