- Winning numbers: 9, 19, 30, 35, 66 (Mega Ball: 16)
- 3x Megaplier boosts secondary prizes
- Jackpot ranks among 2024’s top 10 unclaimed prizes
- Ohio sales spike 41% near jackpot milestones
Friday’s Mega Millions draw delivered a mix of single-digit and mid-range numbers, culminating in a near-$200 million jackpot that has lottery enthusiasts nationwide buzzing. The combination of 9, 19, 30, 35, and 66 proved elusive for jackpot hunters, while the 16 Mega Ball and 3x multiplier created dozens of secondary winners across participating states.
Industry analysts note this marks the eighth consecutive week without a grand prize winner, continuing a trend that’s seen Mega Millions jackpots grow 23% faster year-over-year since 2022. The current $197 million prize pool reflects growing player participation, particularly in Midwestern states where ticket sales typically surge 18-25% during holiday weekends.
Ohio’s recent lottery data reveals a fascinating regional pattern: Border counties consistently account for 67% of Mega Millions purchases when jackpots cross the $175 million threshold. A Toledo convenience store chain reported selling 1,200 tickets per hour last Friday – triple their typical volume – as Michigan residents crossed state lines to play.
The 3x Megaplier option, purchased by 43% of players according to 2023 lottery commission reports, continues reshaping non-jackpot winnings. A $10,000 prize becomes $30,000 with this multiplier, a feature responsible for creating 19 new millionaires in Q1 2024 alone.
As the next Tuesday draw approaches, financial advisors caution against overspending while acknowledging lottery tickets’ entertainment value. Historical data shows 82% of jackpot winners use Quick Pick selections, though 61% of players still prefer personal number combinations tied to birthdays or anniversaries.