Philip Hueller, a resident of Calvert County, claimed a $50,000 top prize from the Maryland Lottery’s Bonus Match 5 game on November 17, 2025, at Lottery headquarters in Baltimore. The winning ticket came from the September 9, 2025, drawing, marking a significant payoff for the longtime player who has stuck with his preferred numbers throughout the year.
Hueller, who has participated in Maryland Lottery games for over a decade, matched all five numbers with his consistent selection of 3, 6, 9, 18, and 27 to secure the prize. He discovered the win after scanning his ticket, an experience he described as leaving him feeling “on top of the world.” “It feels so good to hit,” Hueller said during his claim visit. He attributes his success to a blend of persistence and a personal number system involving birthdays, favorite figures, and their sums, noting that while “it doesn’t always work, but I win so it works for me.”
The ticket was purchased at a 7-Eleven located at 4199 Kenilworth Avenue in Bladensburg, Prince George’s County, a spot Hueller visits regularly despite living in Calvert County. The retailer earned a $500 bonus from the Lottery for selling the top-prize ticket.
Hueller favors Bonus Match 5 along with other pick-style games like Pick 4, having sampled nearly all offerings from the Maryland Lottery over the years. He views playing as entertainment, stating he feels “a little ambitious, a little lucky, and very entertained” each time. “It’s so fun,” he added. “And it’s worth it when you win, no matter how much. It’s still winning when you have a little fun.”
Upon confirming the win, Hueller’s first call went to his sister, who shared in the excitement and offered practical advice. While Hueller mentioned a boat as a potential purchase, his sister urged prioritizing financial stability. He intends to apply the winnings toward paying off his mortgage and expressed hope that future prizes could help support family members and others.
Bonus Match 5 is a daily draw game where players select five numbers from 1 to 39, with a $50,000 top prize for matching all five. An additional Bonus Ball drawn from the remaining numbers creates more winning combinations at lower tiers. Tickets cost $2 per play, with an option for advance plays up to seven days. Drawings occur every evening, and players can check results through the Maryland Lottery app, website, or retailers.
Hueller plans to continue playing, maintaining his routine and number strategy. The Maryland Lottery reminds participants to play responsibly and offers resources for those needing support.
