Starting today, lottery players in New Jersey are able to purchase tickets for the multistate Powerball lottery. “Previously, New Jersey, like other states, could only sell either Powerball or Mega Millions-but not both,” state Lottery Acting Executive Director Steven Palmieri said. “New Jersey Lottery players can now participate in four multi-state jackpots each week. That’s a winning combination for our players, our retailers and the many beneficiaries of lottery revenues.” Powerball is picked at 10:59 p.m. every Wednesday and Saturday.

Mega Millions is drawn Tuesday and Friday nights.

Powerball is similar to Mega Millions. Five white balls are drawn from a drum of 59, and one red Powerball is drawn from a drum of 39, according to the game’s Web site.

The second prize (won by matching five white balls in any order) is $200,000 paid in cash and any time a player matches the red Powerball, he or she win.

The overall odds of winning a prize in the game are approximately 1 in 35. 

Players may choose a lump-sum cash payment or a 29-year annuity.

The jackpot for Wednesday’s game is estimated at $107 million, or $52.5 million for the lump sum.

Tickets are $1 each. Star Ledger.