2008 NBC National Heads-Up Poker Championship: Orel Hershiser Fans Two More, Advances to Quarters Along with Phil Ivey and Our Pick to Win, Huck Seed; Dancing with the Stars’ Shannon Elizabeth Still Eliminated

Looks like Gavin Smith is one helluva poker instructor.

Two nights before the NBC National Heads-Up Poker Championship began, Gavin Smith held a heads-up poker clinic for Orel Hershiser. While the ex-Dodger Cy Young Award winner had some general poker ring game background, he wasn’t as skilled in heads-up play.

Apparently Orel is a fast learner.

After impressive wins today against Allen Cunningham and half-man, half-amazing Freddy Deeb, Hershiser finds himself as this year’s Dancing with the Stars’ Shannon Elizabeth: that is, the unlikely quarter-finalist.

Hershiser will face Andy Bloch for a spot in the semis.

Phil Ivey continues his strong run of late. After capturing the WPT LAPC just a few days ago, Ivey now faces Gus Hansen in the day’s most anticipated match.

The two other quarter-final match-ups are Jonathan Little vs. two-time National Heads-Up runner-up Chris "Jesus" Ferguson. And our pick to win yet again, Huck Seed, who takes on David Benyamine.

Orel Hershiser learns heads-up poker from Gavin Smith video

Full NBC National Heads-Up Poker Championship bracket results

Orel Hershiser NBC National Heads-Up Poker Championship red carpet video