Nick Vertucci, co-owner of Hustler Casino Live (HCL), has indicated that NBA player Jimmy Butler will not be welcomed back to the poker show due to his "rude behavior" at the table. The Miami Heat forward participated in a star-studded lineup that included poker entrepreneur Dan Bilzerian, popular Twitch streamer Ninja, soccer star Andre Neumaier, boxer Ryan Garcia, and Alan Keating.
The episode became one of the most memorable streams in poker history, highlighted by Keating's participation in an extraordinary high-stakes hand. However, Vertucci reported that Butler was consistently disrespectful throughout the evening, demanding to sit next to Neumaier, which added to Vertucci's frustration, though he did not initially act on it.
Butler also showed visible annoyance with certain game elements that other participants enjoyed, which escalated tensions and ultimately led him to abandon the game altogether. Reports suggest that he was also verbally abusive to staff members.
When Vertucci attempted to diffuse the situation by placing a hand on Butler's arm and offering assistance, Butler responded harshly, insisting he remove his hand and telling him, "If you want to help me, go get my money." Vertucci declined and walked away. Despite winning $122,000 that night, Butler's challenging demeanor left a lasting impression. When asked if he would consider inviting Butler back, Vertucci firmly stated: “I don’t care how many viewers he brings; I don’t want him back because he was rude to the dealers, other players, and the staff."
