Powerball is a widely recognized American lottery game operated by the **Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL)**, a non-profit government-benefit organization formed in December 1987 by seven U.S. lotteries to facilitate multi-jurisdictional lottery games[1]. Powerball itself was launched in April 1992, evolving from an earlier MUSL game called Lotto America. The game introduced a unique two-drum drawing system, an innovation suggested by Steve Caputo of the Oregon Lottery, which set it apart in the lottery market[1]. Powerball has become a flagship lottery game in the U.S., currently offered in 47 jurisdictions, including 44 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands[3]. In 2009, MUSL reached an agreement with the Mega Millions consortium allowing cross-selling of tickets, effectively expanding Powerball’s and Mega Millions’ reach to 46 jurisdictions each by 2016[1]. This collaboration is notable for enhancing player access and increasing overall lottery sales. Since its inception, Powerball has generated approximately $55.8 billion in ticket sales, distributing about half of that revenue in prizes—$16.5 billion in jackpots and $11.8 billion in smaller prizes[3]. The game’s jackpots have reached record highs, including a $1.4 billion estimated jackpot drawing that captured national attention due to its staggering odds of roughly 1 in 292 million[3]. Ticket sales contribute significantly to state-funded programs and good causes, underpinning Powerball’s role as a major revenue source for public benefit. Powerball offers winners the option of a lump-sum payment or 30 annual installments, subject to federal and state taxes, with detailed prize claim procedures managed by MUSL and individual lotteries[4]. The organization also actively combats scams, emphasizing that lotteries do not contact winners by phone or email and never require fees t