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CBS Sports Signs Two-Year Deal to Expand Coverage of PBA World Series of Bowling
CBS Sports Signs Two-Year Deal to Expand Coverage of PBA World Series of Bowling
The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) has struck an exciting new partnership with CBS Sports, announcing a two-year agreement that promises to elevate bowling’s global visibility. This deal significantly expands CBS Sports’ coverage of the PBA World Series of Bowling (WSOB), bringing fans even closer to the action with 31 hours of broadcasts in 2026, a thrilling increase from 2025’s nine hours. Live streaming via Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network will provide bowling enthusiasts with unmatched access to the sport they love.
Revamped Coverage for Bowling’s Biggest Stage
Bowling fans rejoice! The expanded deal ensures comprehensive coverage of two marquee events. First, the PBA World Championship finals will now take center stage on CBS and Paramount+, reaffirming its position as one of the sport’s most coveted titles. Additionally, the agreement introduces the newly formatted PBA Commissioner’s Cup, which will provide even more electrifying moments for viewers.
Since 2013, CBS Sports has been a committed partner of the PBA Tour, featuring prestigious events like the US Open and live coverage of the PBA Tour Finals. This new deal ensures that the WSOB, regarded as the sport’s ultimate global showcase, receives its well-deserved spotlight.
Lev Ekster, President of Lucky Strike Entertainment, remarked, “CBS Sports has been a steadfast supporter of the PBA and our athletes for over a decade. With the WSOB being one of the most significant platforms in bowling, we’re thrilled that CBS Sports will continue to deliver world-class events to fans while raising the profile of our sport.”
A Global Phenomenon: The PBA World Series of Bowling
The WSOB has cemented its place as the pinnacle of professional bowling. Since its inception 16 years ago, athletes from over 30 countries have competed, with 14 international bowlers claiming victory. Most recently, champions such as Darren Ong from Singapore and Tun Hakim from Malaysia made waves during WSOB XVI, epitomizing the event’s global reach.
The enhanced 2026 coverage will offer even greater excitement as preliminary rounds and finals of the four animal pattern championships air exclusively on CBS Sports Network. These events ultimately build up to the live broadcast of the PBA World Championship finals, ensuring a captivating experience for fans.
Notably, superstar bowlers like Australia’s Jason Belmonte and the United States’ EJ Tackett share the record for the most WSOB titles, with nine apiece. Tackett, who has dominated with three consecutive PBA World Championship victories, will have his sights set on an unprecedented fourth title in 2026.
The All-New PBA Commissioner’s Cup
The PBA Commissioner’s Cup, formerly known as the PBA Tour Finals, will undergo an exciting transformation in 2026. Unlike previous years where the top eight players in competition points automatically qualified, the revamped format opens the opportunity to all PBA members. A qualifying round will determine the final eight players who will vie for glory during the televised finals.
Fans can look forward to nine hours of live coverage on CBS Sports Network, capturing every moment of the high-stakes competition. Since its introduction in 2017, bowling greats like EJ Tackett, Jason Belmonte, Kyle Troup, and Anthony Simonsen have each claimed the title twice. With this fresh format, the Commissioner’s Cup promises to be even more thrilling and inclusive.
A Bright Future for Bowling
This groundbreaking partnership between CBS Sports and the PBA reflects a shared commitment to showcasing bowling’s best on a global stage. By delivering expanded coverage and reimagined formats, the PBA is not only honoring its storied legacy but also inspiring the next generation of bowlers. With millions of fans around the world and growing, the sport of bowling is poised for an exciting future.
The 2025 PBA Tour Finals, a precursor to these exciting changes, will air live on June 7-8 on CBS Sports Network. For fans eager to catch their favorite players and witness the sport’s evolution, this is a must-watch event.
Stay tuned as CBS Sports and the PBA continue their mission to bring professional bowling to new heights. Exciting times lie ahead for the athletes, fans, and the entire bowling community!
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