"$1 Billion Mega Millions Jackpot Numbers Drawn"

The Mega Millions jackpot has reached nearly $1 billion, with the winning numbers for the $977 million prize being 3, 8, 31, 35, 44, and Mega Ball 16. This marks the 10th largest jackpot in U.S. lottery history, with no winner since December 8. The prize is for a sole winner who can choose to be paid through an annuity over 30 years or opt for a cash payment estimated at $461 million. The Powerball jackpot has also grown to $750 million, with a cash payout of $357.3 million for the next drawing scheduled for Saturday night.