Las Vegas, Nevada (October 06, 2021) – On Tuesday, October 5th, the American Gaming Association (AGA) honored their Gaming Hall of Fame classes of 2020 and 2021, recognizing leaders who have distinguished themselves through significant contributions to the gaming industry at the AGA’s Chairman’s Reception during the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The 2020 Inductees included James R. Maida, President, and CEO of Gaming Laboratories International (GLI), Jeffery A. Silver, Gaming and Administrative Law of Counsel at Dickinson Wright PLLC and Dr. Mark Yoseloff, Retired Chairman, CEO with Shuffle Master, Inc., and Founder of the UNLV Center for Gaming Innovation.

The 2021 Inductees were Jeremy M. Jacobs, Chairman of Delaware North; Jim Shore, General Counsel of the Seminole Tribe of Florida; Knute Knudson, Jr., Vice President of Global Business Development and Tribal Ambassador.

According to an AGA press release, AGA President and CEO Bill Miller said, “Each of these pioneers has left a unique, indelible mark on our industry. Under their leadership, tribal gaming has boomed, professional sports leagues have embraced sports betting, and the gaming industry is thriving despite the challenges we’ve faced over the past year and a half.”

According to an AGA press release, AGA President and CEO Bill Miller said, “Each of these pioneers has left a unique, indelible mark on our industry. Under their leadership, tribal gaming has boomed, professional sports leagues have embraced sports betting, and the gaming industry is thriving despite the challenges we’ve faced over the past year and a half.”

National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr., a 2014 AGA Hall of Fame inductee, applauded the AGA for recognizing these outstanding representatives of the gaming industry and those who are an integral part of the success of the tribal government gaming industry. “Each of these honorees are truly remarkable people who have worked tirelessly in the best interest of our industry. It is an amazing opportunity to witness Indian country and other folks in this gaming industry being inducted into the World Hall of Fame – the American Gaming Association Hall of Fame.”

Stevens shared, “James Maida, without a doubt, is an icon of gaming. What he has given to our industry is insurmountable. James is a good friend of mine, and I’m very excited for him. And it’s certainly a long time coming.”

He continued, “Knute Knudson is one of my best friends. He is truly a tremendous warrior for all of Indian Country. He has a life-long dedication and passion for advancing the success of our tribal government gaming industry. Knute has been with us on the front line every step of the way, supporting the overall interest of our organization in Washington, D.C., for the betterment of the tribal governments we serve.”

Stevens concluded, “Jim Shore has given his life to this industry. He is a consummate professional and an expert in Indian gaming. If you look around, not just in his home country but all-around Indian country, his impact, knowledge, commitment, and work in the industry have changed the world around us. When you see gaming, you should see Jim Shore.

Induction into the Gaming Hall of Fame is the highest honor accorded by the gaming industry. Each year, two or more individuals who have distinguished themselves through significant contributions receive this honor. Gaming Hall of Fame honorees are selected by an independent panel of gaming leaders.