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KNIGHTDALE, N.C. (WNCN) — North Carolina residents have the chance to make this Labor Day weekend special by winning a $1 billion prize, lottery officials said Friday.
According to the North Carolina Education Lottery, the Powerball jackpot in Saturday’s drawing has increased to $1 billion. The jackpot is the Powerball’s largest since the $1.3 billion won by an Oregon man in April 2024.
If claimed in North Carolina, according to lottery officials, the prize may be claimed as a $1 billion annuity or $453.1 million in cash.
“Many North Carolinians have been eager for a chance to play for a $1 billion jackpot and, for only the sixth time in Powerball’s 33-year history, they have that opportunity this weekend,” NC Lottery CEO Mark Michalko said in a statement. “We are all hoping to see a lucky North Carolinian win that epic prize on Saturday night. Good luck.”
More than a dozen customers walked into the Eagles Express Gas Station on Knightdale Boulevard in Knightdale within an hour to snag tickets. According to cashiers, the customers are usually there to buy tickets and they see up to 100 customers buying tickets daily.
Although most of the customers declined to be interviewed, they all acknowledged the grand prize is too high for them to ignore.
“I always buy lottery tickets because I really want to win,” longtime player Arleana Harrison said.
Knightdate resident Arthur Harris Jr. said winning the lottery is more than just luck. He described it as “daring to be lucky” and staying persistent until it is your time to win.
Lottery officials said the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million.
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Matthew Sockol
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