The PBA said there would be an exciting big great incredible announcement. Well, where the heck is it?!

Anyone have any ideas as to what it may have been or might be?

Rumors seem to all center around the amount of the first place check for tournaments. The actual amount has been debated, but anything more than what they're making now would be a good sign.

My guess is they're waiting to make the announcement when they have the TV deal. The fact the announcement was due in late March and we're already beyond that by nearly a month isn't a great sign, but we can hope.

There is supposed to be something going on during the "off-season" as well. Something about a world tour.

Hi all,

I'm new here, this is my first post. As far as the 'big announcement' goes, I was at a clinic this past Saturday with Brian Voss, Norm Duke and Bob Learn, Jr. Brian alluded to this, pretty much saying it was about the prize money. He said in 2-3 weeks we would be hearing big news about the tour and the next generation of bowlers would be making millions.

Sharon

What i heard about this big thing is that they are trying to standardize the top 5 prize money for all the stops. The number i've been hearing is 50 grand for first in all the regular tour stops, both winter and summer, and 70 grand for all the majors. I think its a great idea, cause you know i want more cash money, but is it going to happen...probably not.
Rob

The PBA is preparing to hold a press conference in New York City on May 8.

It is believed that they will announced a TV deal and partnership with a cable network (probably ESPN) for air times and substantial increases in prizes paid in regular and major events.

I think the 50K for first is a start, but in all reality, there needs to be at least $300,000 min. prize fund per tournament.
The money needs to be dipursed so the FIELD can make a living also. If not you will end up with the same 20 bowlers surviving.

Benedettaj
Fla.

John, the way I hear it, they will pay dpwn to about 60 spots or so, with low cash being 2 grand.

good enough?

The PBA's big announcement was made on 5/8 and it's very good news for all pro's and bowling enthusiasts. They have a long term {3years with a 3 year option} agreement with ESPN for regular spots and its to include commercial spots on ESPN's networks.
The other good news is that the prize funds witll increase 139% over this year with much larger 1st place awards= $40,000 to $120,000 and more places will be paid. Full story and info available on this website. WAY TO GO PBA !!!!!!!

I did find it interesting the ESPN folks balked at the question regarding getting bowling on SportsCenter.

Also, the PBA is being tightlipped about the format of the tournament, but with 64 checks, and the cash breakdown, it really screams of being an elimination tournament (single or double). Based on how they list the payouts, could it be anything else?