Mega Millions Jackpot Reaches $277 Million Ahead of Friday Drawing

ROCKLAND, N.Y. — The Mega Millions jackpot has soared to an estimated $277 million for the next drawing set for Friday night, following another drawing where no one matched all six numbers. The cash option for this jackpot stands at roughly $128.4 million.

The latest winning ticket was sold in Arizona, which claimed an $113 million jackpot on January 17. With only four jackpots won in 2024 so far, this is the lowest number since the game’s inception in 2002, according to Mega Millions officials.

The drawing for the most recent batch of numbers took place on March 14 at 11 p.m. ET. The winning numbers were 3, 17, 39, 42, 70, and the Mega Ball was 1. The Megaplier was recorded at 3X, potentially boosting non-jackpot winnings for the evening.

To participate in the Mega Millions, tickets are available for purchase for $2 each. They can be bought at various locations including convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores. Some states also allow online ticket purchases, expanding access to potential winners.

Players need to select six numbers: five from a set ranging from 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball number between 1 and 25. For those who prefer not to choose their numbers, a “Quick Pick” option is available, which uses a computer to generate random numbers.

Participants can also opt for the Megaplier feature for an additional $1, which increases the value of non-jackpot prizes by two, three, four, or five times, enhancing the potential winnings significantly.

For the current jackpot cycle, the draw will take place again on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Sales for tickets in New York are open until 10 p.m. on the night of the draw.

The odds of landing the Mega Millions jackpot stand at 1 in 302,575,350. Despite the long odds, winners can choose between receiving their prize as an annuity, paid out in an immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5% each year, or as a lump-sum cash payment.

Should multiple winners emerge from the same drawing, the jackpot is equally distributed among all winning tickets. Lottery enthusiasts are reminded to check their tickets after each drawing, as the winning numbers are also posted on the Mega Millions website and various news outlets.

“Every drawing brings a new chance for players,” said a spokesperson for Mega Millions. “We encourage everyone to play responsibly and wish the best of luck to all participants.”