Much has been written about tournament bubbles….a little too much in fact. So for your sake, we’ll avoid any corny tips about how you should play aggressive on the bubble because everyone else will be trying to sneak into the money. Instead, let’s take a look at the psychological aspect of playing the bubble and ask, “What type of bubble player are you?”
As simple or pointless as this question may seem, it is actually worth examining. And if you don’t have an answer at this point, consider the following description of the average bubble player.
The average bubble player is a person who has read all of the advice about playing aggressive near the bubble, wants to finish at the top of the tournament knowing this is where the money is, yet still can’t let go of the need to cash. And we all know players like this check, fold, and limp in with A-Q from middle position because they once read some quote from Daniel Negreanu about how he’s lost millions with this hand.
Contrast this to the experienced bubble player who has cashed in numerous tournaments so one more cash isn’t going to make a real impact on their bankroll. This bubble player only has their eyes set on one thing: the final table. They know that they only real way to make money in tournament poker is by finishing near the top so they don’t tighten up as the bubble draws near. Instead they’re looking to steal blinds and small pots whenever the situation arises to build their stack all along.
Obviously, this is the ideal way to play a tournament bubble, as well as the only way that you’re ever going to make any serious profits from the game. And even if you’re a total poker newb who has only cashed in a handful of tournaments, this is the mindset you want as the bubble draws near. So next time the bubble comes up in a tournament, take a look at how you’re playing this situation.
