• Nicknamed "Chino," Rheem has played professionally for 10 years.

• Rheem has cashed in five World Series of Poker events since 2005. The closest Rheem came to a bracelet was in 2006, when he finished second in a no-limit hold'em event, winning roughly $328,000. He came into the final table with career poker winnings of almost $625,000.

GETTING TO FINAL TABLE

Rheem said the biggest aspect in his poker life would be the financial boost afforded by making the final table. His winnings from the final table will surpass his total career poker earnings (ninth place is guaranteed more than $900,000). "Obviously the biggest change is financial, but the acceptance from my peers is a big spirit lift for me."

STRANGEST THING THAT HAS HAPPENED SINCE MAKING THE FINAL TABLE

Rheem is a somewhat unassuming player and the limelight and attention is not what drives his game. "Not that I don't like it, but it's not what I play poker for."

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ESPN POKER ANALYST NORM CHAD:

"He could go out first or he could end up first. He's not afraid to mix it up, he goes with his reads and he'll risk it all early if the spot feels right. Even when he bluffs off most of his stack, he has a great ability to not let the moment destroy him. He'll brush it off and move on. And, of course, most of the established pros are rooting for him."

COMING MONDAY: DARUS SUHARTO