North Carolina Woman's 'Unreal' Lottery Win 'Hasn't Sunk In Yet'

A North Carolina woman is reveling in the "unreal" fact that she scored a huge lottery prize.

Victoria Washington, a teacher from Charlotte, recently picked up a $1 Cash 5 Quick Pick ticket from the Saturn Petroleums on Little Rock Road as she made her way home from school last month, according to a release from the NC Education Lottery. This proved to be a successful move as her lucky ticket matched all five numbers called during the April 24 drawing, beating the 1 in 962,598 odds to win the $172,302 jackpot.

"I've had some success before but nothing like this," she said. "I matched four balls two other times. That's what made me think I could get all five one day."

Washington was eager to share the exciting news, quickly calling her friend to celebrate.

"It was the most exciting feeling I've ever had," she said. "It was unreal."

Washington claimed her prize at lottery headquarters on Wednesday (April 30), taking home a grand total of $123,627 after all required state and federal tax withholdings. She even already has plans for how to use her winnings, telling lottery officials she hopes to buy a new car. Until then, she is still basking in the win.

"It was thrilling," she said. "It still hasn't sunk in yet."