Mega Millions Winner Update: New Jersey Ticket Hits $90 Million Jackpot

The latest Mega Millions winner update confirms that a single ticket sold in New Jersey matched all six numbers in the December 2 drawing worth an estimated $90 million. The winning combination was 17, 25, 26, 53, and 60, with a Gold Ball number of 16. The jackpot now resets for the next draw on December 5.

The lottery operator confirmed the winning ticket on December 3. This marks one of the largest wins since the major $980 million prize claimed in Georgia on November 14. The jackpot now returns to a $50 million starting point, following the updated rules implemented earlier this year.

Full Breakdown of the Mega Millions Winner Update

Mega Millions officials reported that the December 2 draw produced a single jackpot winner from New Jersey. This win follows recent rule changes that increased ticket prices and adjusted jackpot odds. According to the lottery’s update, the jackpot had climbed to $90 million before being claimed.

The previous major jackpot was won in Georgia on November 14 when a ticket matched all six numbers in a $980 million draw. That payout was one of the largest in the game’s history. Mega Millions has continued to attract attention due to higher starting jackpots and improved odds for smaller prizes.

The winning numbers for December 2 were 17, 25, 26, 53, 60, and Gold Ball 16. Lottery officials noted that prize structures have shifted, giving players a better chance to win lower-tier rewards. The updated system increases the minimum prize value and creates more frequent mid-range wins. Officials from multiple state lotteries, including the Washington state lottery director speaking to national media, said the changes aim to boost participation.

The next Mega Millions drawing takes place on December 5 with an estimated $50 million jackpot. This reset follows the new rules that raise the minimum starting jackpot from $20 million to $50 million after a jackpot is claimed.

How the New Jackpot Reset and Rule Changes Affect Players

The updated structure means players now see larger initial jackpots. Mega Millions tickets now cost $5 instead of $2, shifting the odds and prize tiers. Officials said the goal is to create more excitement around the game while increasing the pace of larger jackpots.

The improved odds for smaller prizes mean more frequent wins. According to lottery officials who spoke with national outlets earlier this year, players have a 1 in 23 chance of winning any prize. The last time the game changed its pricing was in 2002, when Mega Millions launched.

The New Jersey win adds to a long list of notable jackpot stories in 2025. While the December 2 winner has not yet come forward publicly, state lottery officials will confirm details once the claim is processed. This update marks one of the final major draws before the holiday season.

The Mega Millions winner update signals another big moment for players as the game resets to $50 million for the next drawing. Officials expect strong participation ahead of the December 5 event.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What were the winning numbers for the December 2 Mega Millions drawing?

The winning numbers were 17, 25, 26, 53, and 60, with a Gold Ball number of 16.

Q2: Where was the winning $90 million ticket sold?

Officials confirmed it was sold in New Jersey. The exact retailer will be announced after validation.

Q3: What is the jackpot for the next Mega Millions drawing?

The next drawing on December 5 starts at $50 million.

Q4: Why did the jackpot reset to $50 million instead of $20 million?

New rules increased the starting jackpot to $50 million following ticket price changes.

Q5: How often do players win smaller prizes?

Lottery officials say players now have a 1 in 23 chance to win any prize.