Current champion Kevin Laskowski, an Episcopal priest from Falls Church, Virginia, returned to defend his title, facing off against Julia Schan, a stay-at-home mom from Pleasanton, California, and Drew Wheeler, a high school social studies teacher from Athens, Georgia. Laskowski, with a comfortable two-day total of $39,400, was hoping for another victory.
The first round saw Wheeler jump to an early lead, capitalizing on categories like “Slogans” and “Quoting the King James Bible.” Laskowski trailed but not by much while Schan struggled to gain momentum.
Double Jeopardy offered a more volatile playing field. Laskowski, initially in the lead, stumbled on a Daily Double about the Pulitzer Prize-winning book “Evicted,” falling to third place. Schan, finding her footing, uncovered the final Daily Double in “4-Syllable Words” but opted for a conservative bet, keeping her in first but failing to significantly widen the gap. By the end of the round, Schan maintained a slight edge with $8,600, followed by Laskowski at $6,800 and Wheeler at $6,300.
The Final Jeopardy category, “State Songs,” proved tricky. The clue hinted at a state with a diverse musical heritage, including songs about moonshine and those in 3/4 time. Laskowski and Wheeler correctly identified Tennessee, while Schan missed the mark. Laskowski’s wager propelled him to victory with $13,599, bringing his three-day total to an impressive $52,999. Wheeler, also answering correctly, finished second, while Schan’s incorrect response dropped her to third.
Laskowski’s strategic wagering and correct Final Jeopardy response secured his win. One notable moment was Wheeler’s conservative wager on the first Daily Double; a more aggressive bet could have altered the game’s outcome. The strategic decisions, and occasional missteps, provided an exciting and unpredictable match.
Jeopardy! airs weekdays in Syndication. Check local listings.
