Tackett Homecoming, Troup Rekindling Highlight PBA Indiana Classic

The PBA Indiana Classic is gearing up to kick off at David Small’s Pro Bowl West in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This tournament, the fifth title event of the season, is the second title event in the Hoosier State this month. Qualifying rounds will take place at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET from Wednesday to Friday, leading up to the live stepladder finals on Sunday, March 22 at 4 p.m. ET on The CW.

If you were to head 45 minutes south of Fort Wayne, you’d find yourself in Bluffton—the hometown of EJ and Zac Tackett. EJ Tackett has a strong history in his home state, finishing in the top four in each of the last seven title events. Although he landed in 12th place before the U.S. Open this season, he’s still hunting for his first win. Patrick Dombrowski took the U.S. Open victory less than two weeks ago in Indianapolis, followed by a 23rd place finish in Illinois.

Kyle Troup, the winner of the 2024 Just Bare PBA Indiana Classic in Anderson, claimed the most recent non-major title event in Indiana. With a two-year title drought, he’s looking to make a comeback in the Hoosier State. Also, Troup was a highlight in the premier episode of the new HBO docuseries “Born to Bowl,” airing on Monday nights at 9 p.m. ET with episodes streaming on HBO Max.

In terms of the tournament format, all players will compete in 24 qualifying games between Wednesday and Thursday. The 39-foot Mike Aulby oil pattern, an ode to the legendary Indiana bowler, will be used throughout the event. The top 32 players will advance to the first Advancers Round on Friday morning, leading to the final Advancers Round on Friday night. The top five players after 36 games will secure spots in Sunday’s championship round, with the live stepladder finals scheduled for Sunday, March 22 at 4 p.m. ET on The CW.

It’s shaping up to be an exciting and competitive event, so be sure to tune in and catch all the action!