2/10/2010 - 4:00 PM

Monroe Man is Louisiana Lottery’s First Millionaire of 2010

Phillip Gossett of Monroe had a reason to smile after he claimed a $1 million match-5 Powerball prize at Lottery headquarters.

Phillip Gossett of Monroe became the first Louisiana Lottery millionaire of 2010 when he claimed a $1 million Powerball prize from the Feb. 3 drawing at Lottery headquarters yesterday.

"Excited doesn't even cover it, man," exclaimed the 36-year-old Gossett after learning he had won a million dollars. "My boss said he was going to have to give me mouth-to-mouth if I'd have kept on going. . . words can't describe it."

Gossett's ticket matched all five white balls, but missed the red Powerball number, to win $200,000. By adding the Power Play option to his ticket, Gossett's winnings were automatically multiplied by five, bringing his total prize to $1 million.  His ticket was a quick-pick, meaning his numbers were randomly generated by the Lottery's system.

For an additional $1, Powerball players can purchase the Power Play option to multiply any nonjackpot Powerball prize up to five times.  In 2009, there were six $1 million Powerball with Power Play winning tickets sold in Louisiana. 

Gossett received $700,000 after federal and state taxes were withheld. The winning numbers were 17-22-36-37-52 and the Powerball number was 24. 

Gossett said he plans to use his winnings to set up college funds for his children, purchase a new home and invest what remains.

He purchased his winning ticket from Sterlington U Pak It on Highway 2 in Sterlington. The store will receive a bonus of $10,000, or 1 percent of the prize, for selling the winning ticket.

Ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age.  Draw-style game tickets must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing.  Anyone who may have a gambling problem or friends and family of anyone with a gambling problem should call toll free 1-877-770-7867 for help.  For security purposes, the Lottery strongly encourages players to sign the back of their tickets immediately after purchasing. 

Visit the Lottery's YouTube Channel to watch Phillip Gossett discuss his big win!