RALEIGH, N.C. – The Powerball jackpot reached $426 million for Monday night’s drawing, offering winners the choice between the full annuity amount or a $193.5 million cash option.

Mark Michalko, chief executive officer of the N.C. Education Lottery, expressed optimism about the potential for a North Carolina winner. “Tonight could deliver a life-changing moment for some lucky winner and we hope that celebration happens in North Carolina,” Michalko said. “Remember there are nine different ways to win so check your tickets carefully and good luck.”

While the jackpot remained unclaimed, Saturday’s Powerball drawing generated significant activity across the state, producing more than 23,000 winning tickets in North Carolina alone.

The ongoing Powerball run also benefited education programs statewide, raising nearly $8 million for North Carolina schools during the current jackpot cycle. North Carolina players contributed to these education funds each time they purchased tickets.

Lottery officials reminded players that Powerball tickets were available at any retail lottery location throughout the state, as well as through the lottery’s Online Play system at www.nclottery.com. The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot stood at 1 in 292 million.

Information about how lottery funds have impacted all 100 North Carolina counties was available in the “Impact” section of the lottery’s website.