WSMV Channel 4 Powerball reaches $325 million

Powerball reaches $325 million

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NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) -

Jackpot fever is once again spreading nationwide.

Tonight's Powerball drawing will be for an estimated $325 million. That's the largest jackpot in five years, and the third largest in the game's history.

Lottery officials say the increase can be attributed to brisk sales and changes to the game designed to create better odds and bigger jackpots.

"Just as we anticipated, the redesigned Powerball game is quickly providing the huge jackpots that create excitement throughout the state and beyond," said Rebecca Hargrove, President and CEO of the Tennessee Lottery. "Players are excited, sales are on the rise, and it's all for a great cause."

Since Powerball launched in Tennessee in 2004, players in the state have won nearly $300 million in prizes.

In this past fiscal year, the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation announced an all-time high transfer of $293.5 million to education programs in the state.

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