Death sucks, but it is an unavoidable part of life. In a bowling community aslarge and as aging as ours, news about bowlers whose lives have sadly endedreaches us often. We say goodbye to former Hall of Famers, coaches and localbowlers who gave years of their lives to the sport. But not every message stops the entire bowling world in its tracks. The one that reached us last Friday did. Jakob Butturff died unexpectedly on July 31 at the age of just 32. Even a weeklater, those words still do not feel real, and are no easier to write. The shock comes not only from how hard it was to believe that he's gone, butfrom everything the bowling world has lost with him. Jakob was not simply a major champion or a future HOF'er. He, above all, wasan incredibly warm human being. Yes, his release did not look like something taken from a traditional coachingmanual. And let’s be honest: many people found his style strange because itlooked so different from what "conventional" bowling technique was supposed tobe. Even commentators during PBA Tour telecasts were always quickto point it out. But Jakob never needed to look conventional. He was simply a hell of a bowler. Over his career, Butters won eight PBA Tour titles, including a major at the2019 USBC Masters, and collected 27 PBA Regional Tour titles. He representedTeam USA seven times, won the 2017 QubicaAMF World Cup and rolled a televised300 game in PBA history. A player with that much success could easily have become distant. Years on TV,major championships and a million dollars in earnings on Tour can sometimeschange how a person sees himself and the people around him. But anyone who knew Jakob, even a little, will tell you that he was theopposite. It was as if he carried a master key that could open the door to anyone’sheart. Butters found his way in through warmth, love and true care for the peoplewho surrounded him. That is why the messages shared after his passing were not about his trophies,which are now just gathering dust on a shelf, but about the lasting memorieshe created with everyone he met - memories that will live on in the hearts ofthose who remember him. Last Friday, Jason Belmonte probably wrote the best sentence to describeButturff's legacy better than any list of his achievements on the lanes evercould. “The PBA has lost one of its kindest.” Jakob was incredibly kind to others, even when he was going throughdifficult times of his own. Even while his mother was living with terminal lung cancer, Jakob not only dideverything in his power to help her, but also used part of his tournamentwinnings to support organizations helping people affected by cancer and rarediseases. He always wanted to help, but he did not make those actions the center of hispublic image. He simply helped because that was the kind of person he was. The PBA Tour has lost a major champion. Team USA has lost one of its own. Manypeople have lost a teammate and a friend, but all of us have lost someonewhose presence made this sport, with all its problems, feel a little warmer. Let’s always remember Jakob for what he gave to the sport and, mostimportantly, look after the people you love. Call them. Check on them. Tellthem what they mean to you, because you never know when it might be the lasttime.Jakob’s family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover funeralexpenses and his Celebration of Life. Any remaining funds will go toward ascholarship in his name, while Ripic’s Carousel Lanes also plans to hold anannual memorial scholarship tournament. Those wishing to support the familycan do sothrough the official GoFundMe campaign. through the official GoFundMe campaign Rest in peace, Jakob. {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/remembering-jakob-butturff-legacy/#article","headline": "Remembering Jakob Butturff: PBA Major Champion and One of Bowling's Kindest Souls","description": "The bowling world mourns the sudden passing of 8-time PBA Tour champion and 2019 USBC Masters winner Jakob Butturff at the age of 32.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-08-07T10:00:00-04:00","dateModified": "2026-08-07T10:00:00-04:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/remembering-jakob-butturff-legacy"},"about": [{"@type": "Person","name": "Jakob Butturff","jobTitle": "Professional Bowler","description": "8-time PBA Tour Champion, 2019 USBC Masters Major Champion, and 7-time Team USA member","deathDate": "2026-07-31"}]},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/remembering-jakob-butturff-legacy/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "When did Jakob Butturff pass away?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Jakob Butturff passed away unexpectedly on July 31, 2026, at the age of 32."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What were Jakob Butturff's major career accomplishments?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Jakob Butturff won eight PBA Tour titles, including a major championship at the 2019 USBC Masters. He also earned 27 PBA Regional Tour titles, represented Team USA seven times, won the 2017 QubicaAMF World Cup, and rolled a televised 300 game on the PBA Tour."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "How can the bowling community support Jakob Butturff's family?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "His family launched an official GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral costs and his Celebration of Life. Remaining funds will establish a scholarship in his name, alongside an annual memorial tournament planned by Ripic's Carousel Lanes."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What made Jakob Butturff's bowling style unique?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Jakob was famous for his highly unconventional and distinct double-jointed wrist release, which set him apart from traditional coaching techniques and made him one of the most recognizable stars on the PBA Tour."}}]}]}

Rumors and criticism surrounding the future of the PBA Regional Tour had beencirculating long before the PBA officially announced the new ELITE Regional Tour. PBA officially announced the new ELITE Regional Tour And even after the announcement, unanswered questions kept the discussionalive and continued to fuel debate across the bowling community. PBA Tour champion AJ Chapman, however, believes manypeople are judging the changes before the PBA has released the full details. “It’s been pretty frustrating reading all the negative comments about thePBA’s announcement today,” Chapman wrote yesterday on social media. “It’s soeasy for people to get on here and complain instead of actually digestingmaterial, especially when it’s not all even announced yet.” The PBA announced earlier this week that its Regional Tour will berestructured into the PBA ELITE Regional Tour beginning in September 2026. The first PBA ELITE schedule will include 21 invitational events across sevenregions, with three tournaments held in each. PBA CEO Peter Murray says theevents will feature larger prize funds, stronger media coverage and a moredirect route toward the National Tour. Chapman believes the new structure could bring the Regional Tour closer to itsmain purpose - identifying players capable of competing at the highestprofessional level. “With these changes, it seems like they’re building an actual pathway to thePBA Tour. Which is how it’s supposed to be,” Chapman wrote. “It’s not the responsibility of the PBA to give a platform for everyone tocompete. It’s their responsibility to give the Elite the chance to compete atthe highest level.” Chapman also argued that bowlers outside the ELITE structure will still haveother places to compete, including state tours, local tournament series,sweepers and handicap events. The 32-year-old knows what the path from regional bowling to the National Tourcan look like. Chapman owns four PBA Regional Tour titles and finally earned his firstPBA Tour title this season alongside Zach Wilkins at the PBA Roth/Holman Doubles Championship. PBA Roth/Holman Doubles Championship “Bowling is not dying, it’s evolving,” Chapman wrote. “This is about theintegrity of the sport at every level. The picture gets much clearer when youlook at it as a whole.” {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/aj-chapman-defends-pba-elite-regional-tour/#article","headline": "AJ Chapman Defends PBA Elite Regional Tour Restructure Against Community Criticism","description": "PBA Tour champion AJ Chapman addresses online criticism regarding the new PBA Elite Regional Tour, arguing that establishing a clear pathway to the PBA National Tour protects the integrity of professional bowling.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-08-06T10:00:00-04:00","dateModified": "2026-08-06T10:00:00-04:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/aj-chapman-defends-pba-elite-regional-tour"},"about": [{"@type": "Person","name": "AJ Chapman","jobTitle": "Professional Bowler","description": "PBA Tour Champion and 4-time PBA Regional Tour Title Winner"},{"@type": "Organization","name": "Professional Bowlers Association","url": "https://www.pba.com"}]},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/aj-chapman-defends-pba-elite-regional-tour/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "What is AJ Chapman's perspective on the new PBA Elite Regional Tour?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "AJ Chapman urged bowlers to wait for full details before judging the changes, stating that the PBA's responsibility is to provide a platform for elite players to compete at the highest level and build a legitimate pathway to the PBA National Tour."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the new PBA Elite Regional Tour structure?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Launching in September 2026, the PBA Elite Regional Tour consists of 21 invitational events across seven regions (three per region), offering larger prize funds, increased media coverage, and a direct path to national PBA Tour competition."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Where can non-elite bowlers compete following these regional changes?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Chapman noted that bowlers outside the PBA Elite structure still have many competition venues available, including state tours, local tournament series, sweepers, and handicap events."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What titles has AJ Chapman won in his PBA career?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "AJ Chapman holds four PBA Regional Tour titles and won his first PBA National Tour title alongside Zach Wilkins at the PBA Roth/Holman Doubles Championship."}}]}]}

After days of rumors surrounding the future of the PBA Regional Tour, theProfessional Bowlers Association has announced a major change to its regionalstructure. In an interview with BowlingLife in February, Murray revealed that the PBA was exploring new formats that could be introduced as early as 2027. Now, that vision is beginning to take shape. In an interview with BowlingLife in February, In an open letter to the bowling community on August 4, PBA CEO Peter Murrayconfirmed that the new PBA Elite Regional Tour will launch in September 2026.The invitational program is designed to create a clearer path from regionalcompetition to the PBA National Tour, with fewer but larger events. In an open letter to the bowling community on August 4 According to Murray, 21 tournaments across seven regions, with three events ineach, will offer larger prize funds than before, stronger competition and moremedia coverage. He also noted that event dates, host centers and further details will beannounced on August 10. As a result of this change, all previously scheduled PBA Regional Tour eventsafter August 31 will be canceled. That is why the PBA Regional schedule on thePBA website was adjusted, and the bowling community was quick to notice it. Players who have already entered those tournaments will receive full refundsfrom the PBA. They will also be given a chance to compete in the new PBA Eliteevents, although the exact entry and selection process has not yet beenannounced. The new Elite events will be connected to the annual Regional PlayersInvitational in December. At the same time, the PBA will hold its first PBACombine, where leading regional bowlers will be evaluated for possibleselection to the PBA National Tour. The PBA also confirmed that its Senior Tour and PBA Juniors program willreturn in 2027. Peter Murray's full lettercan be found on pba.com. can be found on pba.com {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/pba-announces-new-pba-elite-regional-tour/#article","headline": "PBA Announces Major Structural Shift with New PBA Elite Regional Tour Launching September 2026","description": "PBA CEO Peter Murray confirms the launch of the PBA Elite Regional Tour in September 2026, featuring 21 high-stakes invitational tournaments across seven regions and canceling existing regional events after August 31.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-08-04T12:00:00-04:00","dateModified": "2026-08-04T12:00:00-04:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/pba-announces-new-pba-elite-regional-tour"},"about": [{"@type": "Organization","name": "Professional Bowlers Association","url": "https://www.pba.com"}]},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/pba-announces-new-pba-elite-regional-tour/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the new PBA Elite Regional Tour?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The PBA Elite Regional Tour is a revamped invitational program launching in September 2026. It features 21 tournaments across seven regions (three per region) designed to offer larger prize funds, stronger competition, and broader media coverage while creating a clearer path to the PBA National Tour."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What happens to PBA Regional Tour events scheduled after August 31?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "All previously scheduled PBA Regional Tour events after August 31 have been canceled. Players who registered for these events will receive full refunds and will have opportunities to compete in the new PBA Elite events."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "When will full dates and host centers for the Elite Regional Tour be announced?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Full details, including tournament dates, host centers, and specific selection criteria, will be officially announced by the PBA on August 10, 2026."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the PBA Combine?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Held alongside the Regional Players Invitational in December, the PBA Combine is a new event where top regional bowlers will be evaluated for potential selection to the PBA National Tour."}}]}]}

Spencer Robarge and Annalise OBryant won the 2026 Storm PBA/PWBA StrikingAgainst Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles after a close finish at Copperfield Bowlin Houston. The young pair entered Sunday’s 12-game round-robin match play with a 52-pinlead, but their position changed during the second half of match play. Graham Fach and Breanna Clemmer erased a 111-pin gap during the 10th game andmoved ahead of the leaders, together with Deo Benard and RocioRestrepo-Hostetler, who also passed Robarge and OBryant. Fach and Clemmer entered the position round in first place, but their lead didnot last. The Russos also had an opportunity to move into the top position,but an unfortunate break at the end shut down their hopes. That left the championship in the hands of Robarge and OBryant, along withBenard and Restrepo-Hostetler. OBryant doubled in the 10th frame before Robarge struck on his first shot.Benard then left the 2-4-7-8 and failed to convert the spare, giving Robargethe chance to close out the tournament. The 23-year-old rookie delivered the strike and secured the title for histeam. Robarge earned the second PBA Tour title of his rookie season afterwinning the PBA Ohio Classic,joining Alex Horton as the second rookie to win two PBA Tour titles duringthe 2026 season, while OBryant collected her first PWBA Tour title. winning the PBA Ohio Classic The SABC Mixed Doubles was the second-to-last title event of the 2026 PBA Tourseason. The final stop will be theStorm Lucky Larsen Masters,scheduled for August 21-31 at Olympia Bowling in Helsingborg, Sweden. Storm Lucky Larsen Masters {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/spencer-robarge-annalise-obryant-win-2026-sabc-mixed-doubles/#article","headline": "Spencer Robarge and Annalise OBryant Win 2026 SABC Mixed Doubles","description": "Spencer Robarge and Annalise OBryant captured the 2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles title after a dramatic 10th-frame finish at Copperfield Bowl in Houston.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-08-03T10:00:00-05:00","dateModified": "2026-08-03T10:00:00-05:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/spencer-robarge-annalise-obryant-win-2026-sabc-mixed-doubles"}},{"@type": "SportsEvent","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/spencer-robarge-annalise-obryant-win-2026-sabc-mixed-doubles/#event","name": "2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles Finals","sport": "Bowling","startDate": "2026-08-02","endDate": "2026-08-02","location": {"@type": "Place","name": "Copperfield Bowl","address": {"@type": "PostalAddress","addressLocality": "Houston","addressRegion": "TX","addressCountry": "US"}},"competitor": [{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Spencer Robarge" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Annalise OBryant" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Deo Benard" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Rocio Restrepo-Hostetler" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Graham Fach" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Breanna Clemmer" }],"description": "The final 12-game match play round of the 2026 SABC Mixed Doubles tournament in Houston, Texas."},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/spencer-robarge-annalise-obryant-win-2026-sabc-mixed-doubles/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "Who won the 2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Spencer Robarge and Annalise OBryant won the title after a clutch performance in the 10th frame of the position round at Copperfield Bowl in Houston."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What milestones did this win mark for Robarge and OBryant?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The victory earned 23-year-old rookie Spencer Robarge his second PBA Tour title of the 2026 season (joining Alex Horton as two-time rookie winners), while Annalise OBryant collected her first career PWBA Tour title."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the next event on the 2026 PBA Tour schedule?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The final title event of the 2026 PBA Tour season will be the Storm Lucky Larsen Masters, taking place from August 21–31 at Olympia Bowling in Helsingborg, Sweden."}}]}]}

John Janawicz won the 2026 PBA50 Norfolk Classic after climbing from the fifthseed and winning four consecutive matches in Thursday’s stepladder finals. The two-time reigning PBA50 Player of the Year defeated Mika Koivuniemi256-225 in the championship match to claim his 11th career PBA50 Tour titleand second victory of the season in five tournaments. A hand injury had kepthim away from competition after his win at the Ballard Championship. Janawicz had led the PBA50 Norfolk Classic through qualifying and theAdvancers Round, but a loss to Parker Bohn III during bracket match playdropped him to the fifth seed for the stepladder. That meant he needed to defeat every other finalist to win the title. Janawicz began the ladder with a 258-215 victory over Ricky Schissler. He thenrolled seven consecutive strikes to start his match against Tony Campagna Jr.and advanced with a 267-183 win. The semifinal brought a rematch with Bohn III, who had beaten Janawicz earlierin the day. Janawicz finished the match with seven straight strikes to advance246-214. In the final, No. 1 seed Mika Koivuniemi was looking for his second title ineight days after winning the Bud Moore PBA50 Players Championship. He startedwith five strikes in his first six frames, but his run ended with a 7-10 splitin the seventh. Koivuniemi recovered to finish with 225, but Janawicz stayed patient andstruck on all three shots in the 10th frame to close out the match in hisfavor. Your Weekly Bowling Digest The latest bowling news, tips, and gear reviews—all wrapped up in a quick 3-minute read delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe Now For the win, Janawicz earned $7,500. The PBA50 Tour season will conclude with the PBA50 Tournament of Champions inMorgantown, West Virginia. Janawicz will enter the event as the defendingchampion. {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/john-janawicz-wins-2026-pba50-norfolk-classic/#article","headline": "John Janawicz Climbs from No. 5 Seed to Win 2026 PBA50 Norfolk Classic","description": "John Janawicz won four consecutive stepladder matches, defeating Mika Koivuniemi 256-225 in the championship match to capture his 11th career PBA50 Tour title at the 2026 PBA50 Norfolk Classic.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-07-31T10:00:00-04:00","dateModified": "2026-07-31T10:00:00-04:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/john-janawicz-wins-2026-pba50-norfolk-classic"}},{"@type": "SportsEvent","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/john-janawicz-wins-2026-pba50-norfolk-classic/#event","name": "2026 PBA50 Norfolk Classic Stepladder Finals","sport": "Bowling","startDate": "2026-07-30","endDate": "2026-07-30","location": {"@type": "Place","name": "Norfolk","address": {"@type": "PostalAddress","addressLocality": "Norfolk","addressCountry": "US"}},"competitor": [{ "@type": "Person", "name": "John Janawicz" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Mika Koivuniemi" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Parker Bohn III" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Tony Campagna Jr." },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Ricky Schissler" }],"description": "The stepladder finals of the 2026 PBA50 Norfolk Classic, where No. 5 seed John Janawicz ran the ladder to win his 11th PBA50 Tour title."},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/john-janawicz-wins-2026-pba50-norfolk-classic/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "Who won the 2026 PBA50 Norfolk Classic?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "John Janawicz won the title, climbing from the No. 5 seed to defeat top seed Mika Koivuniemi 256-225 in the final match to earn his 11th career PBA50 Tour victory and a $7,500 grand prize."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "How did John Janawicz reach the championship match from the fifth seed?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Janawicz ran the ladder by winning four straight stepladder matches, defeating Ricky Schissler (258-215), Tony Campagna Jr. (267-183), and Parker Bohn III (246-214) before taking down Koivuniemi in the final."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the next and final event of the PBA50 Tour season?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The PBA50 Tour season concludes with the PBA50 Tournament of Champions in Morgantown, West Virginia, where John Janawicz will compete as the defending champion."}}]}]}

Summer is usually a quieter time for bowling, but this week the lanes inHouston will be anything but quiet. The PBA and PWBA will come together at Copperfield Bowl for the annual SABCMixed Doubles, bringing 160 teams and many of the biggest names from bothprofessional tours into the same competition. The event begins Thursday with two official practice sessions before thereturn of Beauties vs. Beasts, featuring five players from each division basedon the 2025 qualifying standings. Five teams of two will compete in a five-gameBaker-format contest for a share of the $4,000 prize fund. The teams are Erin McCarthy and Keven Williams, Jordan Snodgrass and Alec Keplinger, Josie Barnes and Justin Knowles, Diana Zavjalova and Deo Benard, and Sin Li Jane and Shawn Maldonado. Main-event qualifying will follow on Friday and Saturday, with the championsdecided on Sunday. Each mixed doubles team will bowl seven qualifying games. The top quarter ofthe field will advance to Sunday’s semifinals. The remaining teams will then bowl four more games, after which the field willbe reduced to the top 12. Those teams will enter round-robin match play todecide the 2026 champions. Last year, Bryanna Coté and Chris Via won the title. Via returns to defend it,but Coté will not compete this year as she recovers from surgery. Last year, Bryanna Coté and Chris Via won the title Via will instead partner with Shannon Pluhowsky. The SABC Mixed Doubles will be streamed live on BowlTV. Coverage begins withBeauties vs. Beasts on Thursday at 5 p.m. ET and continues through Sunday’sfinals. Your Weekly Bowling Digest The latest bowling news, tips, and gear reviews—all wrapped up in a quick 3-minute read delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe Now {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/2026-sabc-mixed-doubles-preview/#article","headline": "PBA and PWBA Stars Head to Houston for 2026 SABC Mixed Doubles","description": "160 mixed doubles teams gather at Copperfield Bowl in Houston for the annual SABC Mixed Doubles, featuring the Beauties vs. Beasts showdown and elite PBA and PWBA competition.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-07-30T10:00:00-05:00","dateModified": "2026-07-30T10:00:00-05:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/2026-sabc-mixed-doubles-preview"}},{"@type": "SportsEvent","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/2026-sabc-mixed-doubles-preview/#event","name": "2026 SABC Mixed Doubles","sport": "Bowling","startDate": "2026-07-30","endDate": "2026-08-02","location": {"@type": "Place","name": "Copperfield Bowl","address": {"@type": "PostalAddress","addressLocality": "Houston","addressRegion": "TX","addressCountry": "US"}},"description": "The annual joint PBA and PWBA mixed doubles event bringing 160 teams to Houston, featuring qualifying, match play, and the Beauties vs. Beasts exhibition."},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/2026-sabc-mixed-doubles-preview/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "When and where does the 2026 SABC Mixed Doubles take place?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The tournament is hosted at Copperfield Bowl in Houston, Texas, running from Thursday, July 30 through Sunday, August 2, 2026."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the Beauties vs. Beasts match?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The Beauties vs. Beasts match is a Thursday kickoff event featuring five PWBA stars (Erin McCarthy, Jordan Snodgrass, Josie Barnes, Diana Zavjalova, Sin Li Jane) against five PBA stars (Keven Williams, Alec Keplinger, Justin Knowles, Deo Benard, Shawn Maldonado) in a five-game Baker match for a $4,000 prize pool."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Who is defending the title at the 2026 tournament?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Chris Via returns to defend the title he won in 2025. With his former partner Bryanna Coté recovering from surgery, Via is teaming up with PWBA star Shannon Pluhowsky for 2026."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Where can fans stream the SABC Mixed Doubles?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The entire event will be broadcast live on BowlTV, starting with the Beauties vs. Beasts event on Thursday at 5 p.m. ET through Sunday's championship match play."}}]}]}

The 2024 USBC Masters champion DeeRonn Booker recently revealed that he had been diagnosed with BPDCN, or blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm, arare and aggressive form of cancer. DeeRonn Booker recently revealed that he had been diagnosed with BPDCN The 35-year-old right-hander from Albuquerque, New Mexico, began chemotherapyand shared a message thanking his friends, family and the bowling communityfor their support. “After receiving some of the worst news of my life just a few weeks ago, myfriends, family and bowling community showed me that I wasn’t alone,” Bookersaid. “I won’t have an update on how the treatment is going for another coupleof weeks, but my body is handling the chemotherapy very well. We will play thewaiting game to see if it killed all the bad cells, which will allow my bodyto produce new healthy cells. “I feel the support and prayers from everyone, which is getting me throughthis first round of chemo. I’m a fighter, and I’m going to beat this. Muchlove to everyone. More updates later.” Booker won the 2024 USBC Masters at Suncoast Bowling Center in Las Vegas. Thevictory made him the third African-American bowler to win a major championshipon the PBA Tour. Booker’s family also launched the “Hope for DeeRonn: Fighting BPDCN Together”fundraiser to help cover chemotherapy, specialized medication, medical bills,co-pays and possible travel for clinical trials and other treatment. “Hope for DeeRonn: Fighting BPDCN Together” Community Support & Fundraiser Hope for DeeRonn: Fighting (BPDCN) Together Rallying Around PBA Champion DeeRonn Booker DeeRonn is battling a rare and aggressive cancer (BPDCN). Funds raised through this campaign help cover ongoing chemotherapy, specialized treatment, travel for clinical trials, and medical expenses so he can focus entirely on his recovery. Donate Now on GoFundMe {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/deeronn-booker-chemotherapy-update-bpdcn/#article","headline": "DeeRonn Booker Shares Positive Chemo Update and Thanks Community After Cancer Diagnosis","description": "2024 USBC Masters champion DeeRonn Booker shares an update on his first round of chemotherapy for BPDCN leukemia, expressing gratitude to the bowling community for their overwhelming support.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-07-27T10:00:00-04:00","dateModified": "2026-07-27T10:00:00-04:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/deeronn-booker-chemotherapy-update-bpdcn"},"about": [{"@type": "Person","name": "DeeRonn Booker","jobTitle": "Professional Bowler","description": "2024 USBC Masters Champion"}]},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/deeronn-booker-chemotherapy-update-bpdcn/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "What update did DeeRonn Booker share regarding his cancer treatment?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "DeeRonn Booker shared that his body is handling his initial round of chemotherapy very well, and expressed deep appreciation for the prayers, support, and messages received from the bowling community."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What form of cancer is DeeRonn Booker battling?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "DeeRonn Booker is fighting BPDCN (blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm), a rare and aggressive form of leukemia."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Where can supporters donate to assist with DeeRonn Booker's care?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Donations can be made through the official GoFundMe campaign, 'Hope for DeeRonn: Fighting (BPDCN) Together,' created by his family to assist with chemotherapy, specialized treatment, medical bills, and potential clinical trial travel."}}]}]}

The 2024 USBC Masters champion DeeRonn Booker has announced that he has beendiagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. The 35-year-old right-hander from Albuquerque, New Mexico,shared the news on Instagramand said he is preparing for a long road to recovery. shared the news on Instagram “A week ago I was diagnosed with BPDCN, a rare and aggressive form ofleukemia. I’m never one to share bad news over social media, but I felt likethis was important. I have a long road to recovery, but I’m going to beatthis,” Booker wrote. BPDCN, or blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm, is a rare,fast-growing blood cancer that can affect the blood, bone marrow and skin. Booker has already started chemotherapy and will remain in the hospital undermedical supervision for the next month. He will also need a bone marrowtransplant as part of his treatment. Booker won the 2024 USBC Masters at Suncoast Bowling Center in Las Vegas. Thevictory made him the third African-American bowler to win a major championshipon the PBA Tour. Your Weekly Bowling Digest The latest bowling news, tips, and gear reviews—all wrapped up in a quick 3-minute read delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe Now His sister, Kaprice Booker, created a fundraiser titled “Hope for DeeRonn:Fighting BPDCN Together.” She called on those who have been supported,encouraged or inspired by Booker to stand with him during his treatment. “The funds raised through this campaign will help cover ongoing chemotherapy,access to specialized drugs for DeeRonn’s particular cancer, and travelopportunities to participate in distant clinical trials and case studies,”Kaprice Booker said. “They will also help with medical bills, co-pays, andfuture financial challenges related to the disease.” Those wishing to support DeeRonn Booker and his family can join thefundraiser. Community Support & Fundraiser Hope for DeeRonn: Fighting (BPDCN) Together Rallying Around PBA Champion DeeRonn Booker DeeRonn is battling a rare and aggressive cancer (BPDCN). Funds raised through this campaign help cover ongoing chemotherapy, specialized treatment, travel for clinical trials, and medical expenses so he can focus entirely on his recovery. Donate Now on GoFundMe The bowling community quickly responded after Booker shared his diagnosis. "Woke up to the news that Masters Champion and just all-round fantastic humanDeeRonn Booker has been diagnosed with leukemia," Jason Belmonte wrote."Really hope the bowling community pulls together and gives as much support ashe needs. He deserves it!" {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/deeronn-booker-bpdcn-cancer-diagnosis-fundraiser/#article","headline": "2024 USBC Masters Champion DeeRonn Booker Diagnosed with Rare Form of Cancer","description": "PBA Major champion DeeRonn Booker announces his diagnosis with BPDCN, a rare and aggressive blood cancer. A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched by his family to assist with medical treatments.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-07-24T12:00:00-04:00","dateModified": "2026-07-24T12:00:00-04:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/deeronn-booker-bpdcn-cancer-diagnosis-fundraiser"},"about": [{"@type": "Person","name": "DeeRonn Booker","jobTitle": "Professional Bowler","description": "2024 USBC Masters Champion and PBA Tour Major Title Holder"}]},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/deeronn-booker-bpdcn-cancer-diagnosis-fundraiser/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "What cancer diagnosis did DeeRonn Booker share?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "DeeRonn Booker was diagnosed with BPDCN (blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm), a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer affecting the blood, bone marrow, and skin."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What major title did DeeRonn Booker win in his professional career?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Booker won the 2024 USBC Masters at Suncoast Bowling Center in Las Vegas, becoming only the third African-American bowler in history to capture a major championship on the PBA Tour."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "How can the bowling community donate to DeeRonn Booker's treatment?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "His sister, Kaprice Booker, organized an official GoFundMe campaign titled 'Hope for DeeRonn: Fighting (BPDCN) Together' to help cover chemotherapy, specialized medications, clinical trials, and an eventual bone marrow transplant."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What treatment plan is DeeRonn Booker following?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Booker has begun chemotherapy and will remain hospitalized under medical supervision for a month, with plans to undergo a bone marrow transplant as part of his long-term recovery."}}]}]}

How many bowlers can say they have won a professional major title insidesomeone else’s home? I bet the answer is very few. Mika Koivuniemi joined that short list on Wednesday after winning the 2026 BudMoore PBA50 Players Championship on lanes 13 and 14 in the basement of BillMoore’s home in Clifton, Virginia. The private bowling center, Bud Moore Lanes, was built as a tribute to BillMoore’s father, Lewis “Bud” Moore, a Niagara Falls Bowling Association Hall ofFamer who spent much of his life around the sport. Even the lane numbers carry part of the Moore family story. Although thecenter has only two lanes, they are numbered 13 and 14 - the pair on which BudMoore rolled one of his two perfect games. With only two lanes, Bud Moore Lanes hosted the star-studded stepladderfinals, while qualifying and match play took place at Bowl America Woodbridge. The stepladder began with No. 5 seed Pete Weber facing defending champion TomHess. Weber advanced with a 224-213 victory. Brad Angelo then defeated Weber 247-224 to reach the semifinal. Angelo openedthe next match with a double, but Chris Barnes took control with sixconsecutive strikes and won 256-233. That set up a championship match between Koivuniemi and Barnes, longtimefriends who also share accommodation while competing on the PBA and PBA50tours. Both players opened the final with three strikes. Koivuniemi then left a splitin the fourth frame and was unable to convert it. Barnes continued strikingand began the match with six in a row before making a spare in the seventh. Koivuniemi recovered from his open frame with a double. He covered a 10-pin inthe seventh and struck again in the eighth. The match changed when Barnes missed a 10-pin spare to the left. He returnedwith a strike in the foundation frame, but Koivuniemi struck in the ninth anddelivered three more strikes in the 10th to finish with 245. Barnes needed a strike on his first ball in the 10th, but he left anotherringing 10-pin, ending the title race. Barnes finished with 235. The victory earned Koivuniemi the $20,000 first prize. Barnes received $11,000for second place, while Angelo finished third. It was Koivuniemi’s third PBA50 Tour title and his second PBA50 major. Your Weekly Bowling Digest The latest bowling news, tips, and gear reviews—all wrapped up in a quick 3-minute read delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe Now {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/mika-koivuniemi-wins-2026-pba50-players-championship/#article","headline": "Mika Koivuniemi Wins 2026 PBA50 Players Championship at Private Home Bowling Alley","description": "Mika Koivuniemi captured his second PBA50 major title by defeating Chris Barnes 245-235 in a unique basement stepladder final at Bud Moore Lanes in Clifton, Virginia.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Were_nominated_1200_x_150_px_2.png","https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-07-23T09:00:00-04:00","dateModified": "2026-07-23T09:00:00-04:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/mika-koivuniemi-wins-2026-pba50-players-championship"}},{"@type": "SportsEvent","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/mika-koivuniemi-wins-2026-pba50-players-championship/#event","name": "2026 Bud Moore PBA50 Players Championship Finals","sport": "Bowling","startDate": "2026-07-22","endDate": "2026-07-22","location": {"@type": "Place","name": "Bud Moore Lanes","address": {"@type": "PostalAddress","addressLocality": "Clifton","addressRegion": "VA","addressCountry": "US"}},"competitor": [{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Mika Koivuniemi" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Chris Barnes" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Brad Angelo" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Pete Weber" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Tom Hess" }],"description": "The stepladder finals of the PBA50 Tour major held in a private two-lane residential center in Clifton, Virginia."},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/mika-koivuniemi-wins-2026-pba50-players-championship/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "Who won the 2026 Bud Moore PBA50 Players Championship?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Mika Koivuniemi won the championship by defeating Chris Barnes 245-235 in the final match, earning the $20,000 top prize."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Where were the finals of the tournament hosted?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "While qualifying and match play took place at Bowl America Woodbridge, the stepladder finals were held at Bud Moore Lanes, a private two-lane center in the basement of Bill Moore's home in Clifton, Virginia."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Why are the lanes at Bud Moore Lanes numbered 13 and 14?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Even though the private facility only has two lanes, they are numbered 13 and 14 as a tribute to Lewis 'Bud' Moore, who rolled one of his perfect 300 games on those lane numbers."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "How many PBA50 titles does Mika Koivuniemi have?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "With this victory, Mika Koivuniemi secured his third PBA50 Tour title and his second career PBA50 major championship."}}]}]}

Marshall Kent already had one unforgettable win over Anthony Simonsen on oneof bowling’s biggest stages. In 2024,Kent defeated Simonsen to win the PBA Tournament of Champions,claiming the first major title of his career. Kent defeated Simonsen to win the PBA Tournament of Champions On Sunday, Simonsen had another chance to solve him. Instead, Kent once againfound a way. Kent defeated Simonsen in the Race-to-Two championship match at the PBA NormDuke Open, winning the title after a roll-off and claiming his second PBA Tourtitle of the 2026 season. The final did not start in Kent’s favor. Simonsen opened the first game withfour straight strikes and controlled the match from there, taking the firstpoint with a 244-203 win. But Kent did not let the match get away from him in Game 2. He converted the 4-9 split in the second frame, then covered the 4-10 splittwo frames later. Those shots kept him alive long enough to find his strikelook, and when the chance came, Kent made his move. Four straight strikes gave him a 16-pin lead heading into the ninth frame.Kent needed only 15 pins in the 10th to shut out Simonsen, but the finishbecame more complicated than expected. Kent left the 3-10 split and converted it, but then knocked down only six pinson his fill ball. That gave Simonsen a small window to steal the game.Simonsen could not take advantage, and Kent held on for a 223-210 win to forcethe roll-off. Kent struck first in the roll-off. Simonsen answered with two spares. Kentthen delivered another strike, closing the match and another title. Kent reached the title match by defeating A-Squad top seed Deo Benard in aRace-to-Two match that also went to a roll-off. Benard won the first game205-186, Kent answered 192-186, and Kent took the roll-off 59-34. Simonsen reached the final from the other side by defeating B-Squad top seedEJ Tackett 2-0. He beat the2026 PBA World Championshipwinner 207-191 and 195-154 to set up another meeting with Kent. 2026 PBA World Championship Earlier in the A-Squad stepladder, Richie Teece defeated Pennsylvania favoriteBill O’Neill 246-204 before losing to Kent 243-215. In the B-Squad stepladder, Eric Jones opened with a 214-162 win over AJJohnson, but Simonsen stopped his run with a 198-179 victory. Your Weekly Bowling Digest The latest bowling news, tips, and gear reviews - all wrapped up in a quick3-minute read delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe Now The PBA Tour now heads into a short break before one of its final stops of theseason. 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Marshall Kent fought back to take the second game 223-210, forcing a decisive roll-off. Kent struck twice in the roll-off to seal the victory while Simonsen answered with two spares."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "How did the finalists advance through their respective squad brackets?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Marshall Kent advanced from the A-Squad side by defeating Richie Teece (243-215) and outlasting top seed Deo Benard in a roll-off (59-34) after splitting games 186-205 and 192-186. Anthony Simonsen advanced from B-Squad by defeating Eric Jones (198-179) and dominating top seed EJ Tackett 2-0 (207-191, 195-154)."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the next stop on the 2026 PBA Tour schedule?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Following a short mid-summer break, the tour heads to Houston, Texas, for the 2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles Tournament, scheduled from July 30 through August 2 at Copperfield Bowl."}}]}]}

The oil pattern for the 2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast CancerMixed Doubles Tournament has been announced, giving players an early look atwhat they will face this summer at Copperfield Bowl in Houston. This year’s pattern is 40 feet long with 2.18:1 ratio. The event will take place from July 30 through August 2, 2026, at CopperfieldBowl. It will once again bring together top PBA and PWBA players for one ofthe most recognized mixed doubles tournaments in the sport. The tournament also continues its larger mission. The annual event benefitsthe X Out Breast Cancer Foundation and is sponsored by Storm Bowling Productsand the Professional Bowlers Association. Practice sessions and the Beauties vs Beasts match will open the week onThursday, July 30. Qualifying will take place Friday and Saturday, with A andB squads bowling Friday and C and D squads bowling Saturday. The semifinalsand finals are scheduled for Sunday, August 2. In 2025, Chris Via and Bryanna Coté won the 25th anniversary edition of theevent at Copperfield Bowl. Chris Via and Bryanna Coté won the 25th anniversary edition Your Weekly Bowling Digest The latest bowling news, tips, and gear reviews—all wrapped up in a quick 3-minute read delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe Now {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/2026-striking-against-breast-cancer-mixed-doubles-oil-pattern/#article","headline": "Oil Pattern Revealed for 2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles","description": "Officials have released the oil pattern specifications for the 2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles Tournament, featuring a 40-foot distance and a challenging 2.18:1 ratio.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/727621723_1743087420203698_7541557623484194091_n.jpeg","https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-06-21T14:00:00-05:00","dateModified": "2026-06-21T14:00:00-05:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/2026-striking-against-breast-cancer-mixed-doubles-oil-pattern"}},{"@type": "SportsEvent","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/2026-striking-against-breast-cancer-mixed-doubles-oil-pattern/#event","name": "2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles Tournament","sport": "Bowling","startDate": "2026-07-30","endDate": "2026-08-02","location": {"@type": "Place","name": "Copperfield Bowl","address": {"@type": "PostalAddress","addressLocality": "Houston","addressRegion": "TX","addressCountry": "US"}},"competitor": [{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Chris Via" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Bryanna Coté" }],"description": "The elite annual mixed doubles tournament bringing top professional male and female bowlers together in Houston to raise funds for breast cancer research."},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/2026-striking-against-breast-cancer-mixed-doubles-oil-pattern/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "What are the oil pattern specifications for the 2026 Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The 2026 tournament lane condition features a pattern length of 40 feet with a flat and demanding oil ratio of 2.18:1."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "When and where is the 2026 Storm PBA/PWBA Striking Against Breast Cancer Mixed Doubles held?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The event takes place from July 30 through August 2, 2026, hosted at Copperfield Bowl in Houston, Texas."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the tournament event schedule?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The week kicks off on Thursday, July 30, with official practice sessions and the Beauties vs Beasts match. Qualifying squads A and B take the lanes on Friday, followed by squads C and D on Saturday. The tournament wraps up with the semifinal and final rounds on Sunday, August 2."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Who are the defending champions at the Mixed Doubles event?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "PBA star Chris Via and PWBA standout Bryanna Coté are the defending champions, having captured the historic 25th anniversary tournament title during the 2025 event."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What charity does the Striking Against Breast Cancer tournament support?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "This annual tournament operates with a larger mission to benefit the X Out Breast Cancer Foundation, organized with major sponsorship from Storm Bowling Products and the Professional Bowlers Association."}}]}]}

Thursday’s power outage in the area did not stop EJ Tackett and Deo Benard from holding their leads at the PBA Norm Duke Open. Thursday’s power outage EJ Tackett and Deo Benard from holding their leads Both players finished qualifying on top of their respective squads at LuckyStrike Sinking Spring in Pennsylvania, earning No. 1 seeds for Sunday’stelevised stepladder finals on CBS Sports Network. CBS Sports Network Benard led A-Squad with 5,659 after 25 games, while Tackett topped B-Squadwith 5,580. The 22-year-old Benard averaged more than 226 on the 39-foot Norm Duke oilpattern and will now wait for his opponent in the A-Squad final. It will beeither Marshall Kent, Richie Teece or Bill O’Neill. Kent earned the No. 2 seed with 5,460, while Teece climbed into third with5,354 after a wild final round. O’Neill grabbed the fourth seed with 5,339,finishing just one pin ahead of Zach Wilkins. On the other side of the bracket, the 2026 PBA World Championship winnermaintained the lead in B-Squad. Tackett finished 201 pins ahead of AnthonySimonsen, who took the No. 2 seed with 5,379. 2026 PBA World Championship winner AJ Johnson earned the third seed with 5,366, while Eric Jones secured thefinal spot with 5,313. Your Weekly Bowling Digest The latest bowling news, tips, and gear reviews—all wrapped up in a quick 3-minute read delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe Now The Norm Duke Open format keeps the two squads separate until the final match.Each squad will bowl its own televised stepladder, with the No. 1 seed waitingfor a Race-to-Two match. The A-Squad stepladder will begin Sunday at 12 p.m. ET and will be aired onCBS Sports Network. The B-Squad stepladder will follow at 2 p.m. ET. The twosquad winners will then meet in the championship match at 4 p.m. ET. {"@context": "https://schema.org","@graph": [{"@type": "NewsArticle","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/pba-norm-duke-open-finals-stepladder-set/#article","headline": "Deo Benard and EJ Tackett Lock Up No. 1 Seeds for PBA Norm Duke Open Televised Finals","description": "Deo Benard captures the A-Squad top seed and EJ Tackett paces B-Squad through 25 games of qualifying to lead Sunday's unique dual-stepladder finals at Lucky Strike Sinking Spring.","image": ["https://fsn1.your-objectstorage.com/bowlinglife/media/Posts_Uploads/Discord_ad_banner_bowlinglife.png"],"datePublished": "2026-06-20T10:00:00-04:00","dateModified": "2026-06-21T09:00:00-04:00","author": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu"},"publisher": {"@type": "Organization","name": "BowlingLife","logo": {"@type": "ImageObject","url": "https://bowlinglife.eu/logo.png"}},"mainEntityOfPage": {"@type": "WebPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/pba-norm-duke-open-finals-stepladder-set"}},{"@type": "SportsEvent","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/pba-norm-duke-open-finals-stepladder-set/#event","name": "2026 PBA Norm Duke Open Televised Finals","sport": "Bowling","startDate": "2026-06-21T12:00:00-04:00","endDate": "2026-06-21T18:00:00-04:00","location": {"@type": "Place","name": "Lucky Strike Sinking Spring","address": {"@type": "PostalAddress","addressLocality": "Sinking Spring","addressRegion": "PA","addressCountry": "US"}},"competitor": [{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Deo Benard" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "EJ Tackett" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Marshall Kent" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Richie Teece" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Bill O'Neill" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Anthony Simonsen" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "AJ Johnson" },{ "@type": "Person", "name": "Eric Jones" }],"description": "Televised dual-squad stepladder finals on CBS Sports Network concluding with a Race-to-Two title match between the A-Squad and B-Squad winners."},{"@type": "FAQPage","@id": "https://bowlinglife.eu/pba-norm-duke-open-finals-stepladder-set/#faq","mainEntity": [{"@type": "Question","name": "Who secured the No. 1 seeds for the PBA Norm Duke Open finals?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "Deo Benard earned the No. 1 seed for A-Squad with a 25-game total pinfall of 5,659. EJ Tackett secured the top spot for B-Squad finishing with a 5,580 total."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Which players made the TV stepladder finals for A-Squad?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The four advancing players from A-Squad are No. 1 Deo Benard (5,659), No. 2 Marshall Kent (5,460), No. 3 Richie Teece (5,354), and No. 4 Bill O'Neill (5,339), who edged out Zach Wilkins by just one pin."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "Which players made the TV stepladder finals for B-Squad?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The final four advancing from B-Squad are No. 1 EJ Tackett (5,580), No. 2 Anthony Simonsen (5,379), No. 3 AJ Johnson (5,366), and No. 4 Eric Jones (5,313)."}},{"@type": "Question","name": "What is the Sunday television schedule for the PBA Norm Duke Open?","acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer","text": "The live finals air Sunday, June 21, on CBS Sports Network. The A-Squad stepladder triggers at 12 p.m. ET, the B-Squad block follows at 2 p.m. ET, and the two respective squad champions collide in the ultimate match at 4 p.m. ET."}}]}]}