Tournament XI - First Round Day 24

The last day before a planned break is here. We begin with...

Sony Center, Queens: Violetta v. Kayla. The green cue opens the day in 10-ball. Queens' Violetta had a slightly better game 1, making a pair at the end to defeat Royal's Kayla. Violetta owns a 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Kayla couldn't get anything going in game 2, and she scratched as she made the 8. The Flames' Violetta got away with an awful break to earn the win, which clinched the series at 2-0. Kayla had a scratch on the 2 in game 3, and that proved costly yet again. Violetta finished a 3-0 series sweep with the 3-10 combination to the bottom left. Violetta will play in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Pedey v. Josie. The blue cue draws in for 12-ball, its first series since the announcement of a planned phase-out and replacement. Todavía's Pedey got off to a five-ball run to start game 1. His positioning for the bottom side wasn't great, but he eventually kicked in the winning shot after Viewpoint Sound's Josie failed to keep up. Pedey leads the series 1-0. The Meteors' Josie had a great push with a four-ball run after the Stills' Pedey started game 2 well. Josie then kicked the 2 to the top right for the win, tying the series at 1. Josie got off to a strong start in game 3, but her last ball never lined up right. Pedey fired back from ball-in-hand on a four-ball run-out to claim the win and 2-1 series win to get into the second round.

Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Klaus v. Shawn. The green cue is back for 15-ball. Midland's Shawn surged late in game 1 with a seven-ball run, but he made the 15 while scratching to gift the win to Central's Klaus, who leads the series 1-0. The Predators' Shawn had another solid game 2 effort, but he came up short at the end. The Warriors' Klaus grabbed a three-ball run-out for the win to seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Shawn was able to finally finish off a performance with four of the last five balls after Klaus flubbed his look at the 15. Klaus still won the series 2-1 to get into the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Rudolph v. Maison. An all-Sharks series is played in Accuracy with the silver cue. In game 1, both players had some poor moments. The battle went to overtime, where Rudolph made two on the break and Maison came up empty. Rudolph won 5-6 for a 1-0 series lead. In game 2, Rudolph maintained a much higher level of play, and Maison wasn't able to keep pace. Rudolph's 1-3 win clinched the series in his favor at 2-0. Maison finally found some control in game 3, and he rode it to a 1-2 win. Rudolph took the series 2-1 and will visit Maplewood Lumberjacks sophomore Marissa in the second round.

Google Hall, Modernistic: Ms. Puppy v. Toki. The purple cue enters the action in 13-ball. After a slow start to game 1, Modernistic's Ms. Puppy began to find her way. Eastside's Toki had little strategy in this one, and Ms. Puppy earned the win with a three-ball run-out to go up 1-0 in the series. A fortunate bounce gave the Sharks' Toki stripes early in game 2. The Union's Ms. Puppy tried to battle back, but she missed at the bottom side, and Toki sealed the win well to tie the series at 1. Ms. Puppy maintained a small advantage throughout game 3, doing well enough to keep Toki from catching up. Ms. Puppy cashed in the win and won the series 2-1 to earn a hosting position in the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Smudge v. Ingrid. The red cue's lone series today is in 10-ball. A choppy battle on both sides saw Southridge's Ingrid make a few too many errors. Infinity's Smudge held her off at the end to sink the 10 at the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Torpedoes' Smudge struggled a bit more in game 2, as the Defenders' Ingrid was able to pace the offense with a three-ball run. Smudge also whiffed on the 10, and Ingrid deposited it at the bottom left for the win to tie the series at 1. Ingrid had a chance to end game 3 early but elected to play it out. It ended up being a bad choice, as Ingrid's late error gave Smudge a free look at the 10 for the win and the series. Smudge converted, a 2-1 series win taking her to the second round.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Delila v. Mr. Snowman. The blue cue is back in action in Rotation. Atlantic's Delila tried to keep up early in game 1, but Apex's Mr. Snowman ran away with an 8-2 win at the end to go ahead 1-0 in the series. A close battle in game 2 saw the Pirates' Delila escape with an 8-5 win as she surged on a three-ball run-out to beat the Wonders' Mr. Snowman. The series is tied at 1. While not dominant, Delila controlled and won game 3 with relative easy by an 8-1 score as Mr. Snowman failed to get any offense going. Delila took the series 2-1 and will play in the second round.

Mitsubishi Arena, Apex: Blair v. Roxy. The blue cue is done for the day after 10-ball. A messy game 1 saw Southridge's Roxy strike late on the 10 to get the win and 1-0 series lead over an uninspired effort from Apex's Blair. In game 2, the Defenders' Roxy took her chances on offense, but the pace was improved on both sides. The Wonders' Blair prevailed this time with a three-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. Blair was a little shaky on offense in game 3, but Roxy had a good look on the 10. Roxy scratched as she made it, and Blair took it for free after that to win the series 2-1 and earn his place in the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Vladimir v. Gabby. The green cue cycles in for a 9-ball set. Maplewood's Vladimir couldn't string much together in game 1, and Southern's Gabby picked up the slack late on a five-ball run-out. Gabby owns a 1-0 series lead. The Lumberjacks' Vladimir again struggled on offense in game 2. The Monarchs' Gabby wasn't a lot better, but she still found a three-ball run-out at the end for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Vladimir finally got a win in game 3, making the final pair of shots in another choppy battle. Gabby won the series 2-1 and will visit Diamond Gems captain Shadow in the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Sydney S. v. Kitty. South Division rivals clash in 13-ball with the silver cue. Boston's Sydney S. had a rough start in game 1 that gave Midland's Kitty an advantage, but it didn't last. Sydney S. pushed on and made the final pair of shots for a 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Kitty came close to a win in game 2, but she sent the 8 wide of the bottom right. The Swifts' Sydney S. shot back on a pair of shots to get the win, clinching the series at 2-0. In game 3, Sydney S. had a slow attack. Kitty had her chances to finish it off, but she fell short. Sydney S. swept the series 3-0 and will visit her former teammate, Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II, in the second round.

Volkswagen BeetleDome, Viewpoint Sound: Josie v. Carly. The silver cue stays on for a North Division 13-ball set. Westside's Carly made a decent push early in game 1, then maintained the lead just well enough to prevent Viewpoint Sound's Josie from getting onto the 8 at the end. Carly was able to grab the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Carly started well with a four-ball run in game 2. The Meteors' Josie nearly got it all back, but a scratch set her back too far. Carly was able to close out the win to secure the series at 2-0. Carly had a good break in game 3, but Josie pushed back quickly. Josie was faster on offense at the end to get the win, while Carly's 2-1 series win sets her up to host the North Modernistic Nighthawks' Cheddar in the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Mams v. Chicky Phil. The purple cue gets a look in 13-ball here. After a slow start, Midland's Chicky Phil produced arguably the weirdest automatic loss in UPCL history. He attempted a shot that skipped up twice off the bottom bumper, then hit the left bumper in the air with spin. From there, the cue ball made legal contact with the 6 and rolled back into the bottom left, while the 6 drove the 8 to the top side to gift Swordpoint's Mams the win and 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Chicky Phil got right back into action in game 2, and he was first on the 8, but he missed it. The Blades' Mams made a pair of shots to close it out and clinch the series at 2-0. In game 3, Chicky Phil tried to keep up. A late scratch doomed that effort, and Mams made a pair of shots for the win to finish a 3-0 series sweep that earns her the right to face Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy in the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Bright v. Avril. The silver cue exits the day with 15-ball. Pronger's Bright didn't have the better offense in game 1, but when Pronger's Avril ended a four-ball run with a miss on the 15, Bright struck for the win. This gave the host a 1-0 series lead. The Tridents' Avril continued to see her offense ebb and flow, and it went south on her near the end in game 2. The Surfers' Bright pushed through with a three-ball run-out to get the win and seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Bright came close to a sweep, but he scratched on the 15. Avril cleaned it up for her lone win, while Bright's 2-1 series win puts him on the road versus Royal Crowns captain Kayla in round two.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Jennifer v. Valencia. The green cue checks out with 15-ball. Terrace City's Jennifer didn't get much offense in game 1, but she was still in the mix at the end. Golden's Valencia had just enough to sink the 15 at the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. In game 2, the Knights' Jennifer tried a bold two-rail kick on the 1 but ended up scratching. The Pilots' Valencia made the 1 on ball-in-hand and then her shot on the 2 sank the 15 to the top side for the win to seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Valencia had a chance for a deep run at the end but missed on the 13. Jennifer salvaged a result with a three-ball run-out for the win, but it'll be Valencia who heads to Todavía to face the Stills' Ruby in the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Puff III v. Mr. Snowman. The first half of the First Round ends with 7-ball and the purple cue. Apex's Mr. Snowman was decent at times in game 1, but Everton's Puff III fired back on a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. Another lackluster game 2 on both sides saw the Wonders' Mr. Snowman butcher his finishing attempt. The Eagles' Puff III gladly cleaned it up for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Mr. Snowman didn't have much left to give in game 3, and he faltered on the 7 yet again. Puff III buried it for the win and 3-0 series sweep that takes her into the second round. 

With that done, we're halfway through the First Round. A scheduled break begins tomorrow, the length of which is undecided. It will be a minimum of three days and like closer to five before we resume the action.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 23

The weather's cooler but the play should remain strong. We begin today with...

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Rocky v. Snowball. The green cue is up in 8-ball to start things off. Westside's Snowball had a good start in game 1, but she still had to scrap for the win after a slow comeback push from Oceanside's Rocky. Snowball barely held on for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Snowball was better in game 2, carving a four-ball run-out at the end to shock the Waves' Rocky. Snowball's late surge secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Snowball continued to shoot well in game 3, leading to a six-ball run after an early scratch. Rocky had nothing on offense, and Snowball got the win to sweep the series 3-0, earning a road position in the second round.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Rainmane v. Bells. South Division rivals battle in 8-ball with the purple cue. Midland's Rainmane wasted a late three-ball run in game 1 when she couldn't put away the 8 twice. Zenith's Bells eventually made it to the top side for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Rainmane kept her pace high in game 2, making a five-ball run. The Skywatchers' Bells tried to keep up but fell short as Rainmane earned the win to tie the series at 1. Rainmane smashed a six-ball run to start game 3, and Bells again couldn't match the intensity. Rainmane won the series 2-1 to earn a hosting position in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Ellie v. Hughbert. The West Division gets the spotlight in 9-ball with the purple cue. Capital City's Ellie was decent to start game 1, but Todavía's Hughbert answered her with a three-ball run-out at the end. Hughbert leads the series 1-0. The Stills' Hughbert was solid early in game 2, but the Sharpshooters' Ellie stung him with a 4-9 combination to the bottom right for the quick win. Ellie tied the series at 1. In game 3, Ellie had a six-ball run-out to pull her way to a win and 2-1 series win over Hughbert. Ellie will host the Queens Flames' Mario in the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Summer v. Acorn. The purple cue remains active for 12-ball. Lighton's Acorn had a decent look throughout game 1, but he stalled out on his last ball. Maplewood's Summer answered with a pair of shots to nab the win and 1-0 series lead at the end. The Prestige's Acorn was again first to get onto his last ball, only to fall short of the win again in game 2. The Lumberjacks' Summer made three balls over her last two turns for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Summer started well in game 3 with one of each, and she controlled the game on stripes to sweep Acorn 3-0 in the series. Summer will host the Swordpoint Blades' Mams in the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Rudolph v. Blake. The blue cue will test things out in 10-ball for its lone series today. Eastside's Rudolph pushed on offense late and took a pair at the end for the win after a good challenge from Freedom's Blake in game 1. Rudolph holds a 1-0 series lead. Both players attempted to make bold moves, but they often resulted in turnovers of possession. At the end, the Cascades' Blake sniped the 10 to the bottom right to tie the series at 1 versus the Sharks' Rudolph. In game 3, Blake was able to double down with a masse shot on the 6 and a deflection off the 7 to put the 10 in the bottom left for the win. Blake won the series 2-1 and will play in the second round. After the series, the assessment on the blue cue was that it will remain playable but the replacement process will begin, likely in time for the second round or bracket quarterfinals.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Vladimir v. Spot. Back north, the green cue is in for 8-ball. Pronger's Spot was a little more persistent in game 1, getting a three-ball run-out after Maplewood's Vladimir stalled out. Spot leads the series 1-0. Both players went in hot on the 8 in game 2, but the Lumberjacks' Vladimir missed his chance on it at the bottom side. The Tridents' Spot sniped the 8 to the bottom right for the win that clinched the series at 2-0. Spot was strong again in game 3, although Vladimir certainly had a few looks on offense too. Spot won with a three-ball run-out for the 3-0 series sweep, and he'll host the Westside Rockers' Snowball in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Chris. A West Division captains' battle uses the red cue in Accuracy. Todavía's Easter had a costly scratch near the end of regulation in game 1, which dropped her into a tie. She got nothing on the overtime break, and Capital City's Chris easily converted a shot for the 1-2 win and 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Chris suddenly lost all control on his shots in game 2 near the end, leading to a sloppy performance. The Stills' Easter also struggled, but easily won 3-6 to tie the series at 1. In game 3, Chris faltered first and fell behind. He thought he did enough to force overtime after a long-range shot near the end, but Easter answered on the last ball for the 1-2 win. Easter took the series 2-1 and will host in the second round.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Strawberry v. Bright. The red cue stays in for 7-ball. Pearl's Bright played well enough to win, but he was too loose on his shots late in game 1. This allowed Victoria's Strawberry to survive an error on the 6 and end up kicking the 7 in the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Strawberry made a pair on the break and scratched in game 2, but she got possession back after the Surfers' Bright scratched. Strawberry closed the win with a three-ball run-out to seal the series at 2-0. Strawberry wasted no time in making it a sweep, beating Bright with the 7 at the bottom right on the game 3 break. Strawberry moves on to round two.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Daisy v. Precious. The red cue checks out after a turn in 8-ball. Oceanside's Daisy started fairly well, but Pronger's Precious stayed close and overtook her on offense late in game 1. Precious cruised to the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Tridents' Precious didn't play as well in game 2, while the Waves' Daisy attacked somewhat recklessly. Despite a late error, Daisy was able to stay ahead and earn the win, tying the series at 1. Precious got back on track with a five-ball run early in game 3. Daisy had trouble getting loose on a run, and Precious knocked the 8 down legally at the bottom side for the win and 2-1 series win. Precious will continue her travels in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Slinks v. Spice. The silver cue cycles in for 12-ball. Victoria's Spice had a mediocre game 1, striking first before Tysini's Slinks made a five-ball run. In a frenzy, Spice got no more offense before Slinks sank the last ball at the bottom side for the 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Slinks made a four-ball run off the break in game 2. The Spurs' Spice tried to keep up again and came close, but Slinks was good enough to finish it off for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Spice was a little faster on offense in game 3, and it paid off when Slinks knocked a ball in for her. Spice dodged the sweep with her win, but Slinks' 2-1 series win sets her up to host Diamond Gems captain Shadow in the second round.

Sony Center, Queens: Pauline v. Acorn. The green cue is up for a 7-ball set here. Queens' Pauline had a five-ball run in game 1, but her miss on the 7 allowed Lighton's Acorn to poach the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Acorn made a pair at the start and the end of game 2, offsetting a three-ball run by the Flames' Pauline in the middle that ended with illegal contact. Acorn's win secured the series in his favor at 2-0. Acorn had a chance to finish the sweep in game 3, but he flubbed his shot on the 7. Pauline mopped it up to get on the board, but Acorn's 2-1 series win assures he'll be on his way to Apex to visit Wonders captain Midnight in the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Kodiak v. Violetta. The green cue administers 8-ball between club-mates. Queens' Violetta completely lost control late in game 1 after a mediocre start. Web City's Kodiak benefited from it, as Violetta scratched when she made the 8 on an angry shot. Kodiak leads the series 1-0. The Spiders' Kodiak looked to be cruising toward victory in game 2 as well, but the Flames' Violetta rallied back with a six-ball run-out to claim the win. This tied the series at 1. In game 3, Kodiak took a massive lead early and had a great look at the 8 that just barely missed at the bottom side. Desperate for offense, Violetta unleashed another six-ball run-out for the win to take the 2-1 series win. Violetta will visit Atlantic Pirates veteran Dusky in the second round.

Kraft Forum, Royal: Jake v. Hoot. The green cue exits the day after this 7-ball battle. A choppy game 1 saw both players miss on the 7 before Royal's Jake put it down for the win and 1-0 series lead over Viewpoint Sound's Hoot. The Crowns' Jake opened game 2 with a three-ball run, but the Meteors' Hoot killed the pace after that. Jake eventually got a lucky spinning bounce on the 7 to send it to the top left for the win, clinching the series at 2-0. In game 3, Jake scratched on the break and Hoot made a six-ball run-out for his lone win of the series. Jake won the series 2-1 to get a hosting position in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Twinkie II v. Oreo. The silver cue checks out with a 13-ball set. Harrison's Twinkie II played well from the start and knew when to give her defense up. Terrace City's Oreo didn't have time to overcome a late scratch, and Twinkie II earned the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Twinkie II had a decent showing in game 2, but the Knights' Oreo played a more physical game at the end to win on a three-ball run-out. Oreo's win tied the series at 1. A close battle for positioning emerged to end game 3, but it was Twinkie II who buried the three-ball run-out this time to beat Oreo 2-1 in the series. Twinkie II retains hosting rights in the second round. This was Twinkie II's 100th unique opponent.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Citrus v. Rudolph. Today's finale is in 15-ball with the purple cue. Eastside's Rudolph had a five-ball run in game 1, but Lighton's Citrus started and ended the game with four-ball runs to earn the win for a 1-0 series lead with pace. The Prestige's Citrus wasn't as good in game 2, leading to a slow start. The Sharks' Rudolph hushed the crowd with an eight-ball run, then scuffled before getting on track to make the final pair for the win. This tied the series at 1. Game 3 saw both players trying to pull off the spectacular. Eventually, they switched to regular shooting, and Citrus made a four-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win. Citrus will host again in the second round. 

Tomorrow, we end the first half of the First Round before taking a scheduled break.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 22

Things are heating up again, and so is today's UPCL action. The purple cue will be spared from the heat and not participate today. First up...

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Starlight v. Midnight. The silver cue gets the start today in Rotation. Apex's Midnight enjoyed a better start to game 1, and she was able to see it out in the end after Pacific's Starlight came up short. Midnight won 8-4 and earned a 1-0 series lead. The Wonders' Midnight wasn't as sharp on offense in game 2. She battled a bit early on, but the Volcanoes' Starlight simply played better in an 8-3 win to tie the series at 1. Midnight bounced back in a methodical game 3, winning 8-3 to get the better of Starlight 2-1 in the series. Midnight is headed to the second round.

Sony Center, Queens: Violetta v. Spot. Outcast club-mates spar in 7-ball with the green cue in today's marquee series. Queens' Violetta didn't do much in game 1 as Pronger's Spot enjoyed a three-ball run. Spot then missed the 7 at the bottom right, and Violetta cleaned it up for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Violetta did a much better job of earning the win in game 2, smashing in a three-ball run at one point. The Tridents' Spot got a look at the 7, but he missed it, and Violetta tucked it in to the bottom right again to seal the series at 2-0. Violetta did it again in game 3 with a three-ball run-out to earn the 3-0 sweep over Spot. Violetta will play in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Leandra v. Sydney S. The red cue draws in for a 9-ball set. Boston's Sydney S. made some early moves in game 1, but Tysini's Leandra recovered after the 6 proved difficult. Leandra won on a three-ball run-out for the 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Leandra scratched on her attempt at the 5 in game 2, and the Swifts' Sydney S. stepped up for a five-ball run-out. Sydney S.'s surge tied the series at 1. A choppy start to game 3 gave way to Sydney S. earning the win with a three-ball run-out. Sydney S. took the series 2-1 over Leandra, and she'll head to the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Sparkles v. Paps. South Division rivals clash in 13-ball with the red cue. Zenith's Paps had a great start in game 1, but he wasn't able to convert on the 8 at the end. Golden's Sparkles stunned with a five-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Sparkles had her looks in game 2, but a few too many mistakes opened the door for the Skywatchers' Paps to win on the final pair. The series is tied at 1. Paps didn't have the best start in game 3, but Sparkles lost control near the end. Paps found his way to the final pair and converted for the win to take the series 2-1 as he heads to visit Capital City Sharpshooters rookie Kelsea in the second round.

Apple Center Todavía: Easter v. Nibbles. The red cue continues in Rotation. Todavía's Easter had a bad mix of inaccuracy and scratches, making it much easier for Web City's Nibbles to surge with an 8-3 win in game 1. Nibbles leads the series 1-0. A much faster game 2 worked out well for the Stills' Easter as she paced the play. The Spiders' Nibbles had a pair, but Easter fired back on a four-ball run-out for her own 8-3 win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, Easter made three balls on the break. Nibbles never made a real challenge to the lead, and Easter held on for an 8-1 win to clinch a 2-1 series win. Easter will host club-mate and Maplewood Lumberjacks captain Diddley in the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Kodiak v. Goldy. In the East Division, the silver cue is up for 7-ball. Everton's Goldy did all the work in game 1, but her six-ball run wasn't enough. Web City's Kodiak poached the win for a 1-0 series lead when he tapped in the 7 at the top left. The Spiders' Kodiak took a pair early in game 2, but the Eagles' Goldy found a five-ball run-out to close out her win this time, tying the series at 1. In game 3, Goldy pulled off a nice move on the 2, driving the 4-7 bank combination on a deflection to the bottom side for a quick win. Goldy took the series 2-1 and will play in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Leandra v. Diddley. Captains battle in 15-ball with the green cue. Maplewood's Diddley pulled off a strong finish with a three-ball run-out after a lively game 1 battle with Tysini's Leandra. Diddley holds a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Leandra took a six-ball run and pushed late in game 2, but she couldn't cash it in. The Lumberjacks' Diddley made a tough diagonal bank on the 15 to the top right for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Leandra had some wild shots and good plays in game 3, but her miss on the 7 left Diddley lined up for a 7-15 combination to the bottom left. Diddley converted, sweeping the series 3-0 to get into the second round.

Volkswagen BeetleDome, Viewpoint Sound: Princess v. Greg. The green cue stays up for 13-ball. Viewpoint Sound's Princess was sloppy with a scratch and an overfill in game 1. Archtown's Greg avoided such problems and cruised to the win and 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Princess had a five-ball run to open game 2, but she couldn't find the shot at the top side. The Arrows' Greg answered on a four-ball run and then pushed his way to the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Princess again jumped out to a lead in game 3, only for Greg to deny her the chance to close it out. Greg swept the series 3-0 to reach the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Snuggle v. Stripes. The silver cue cycles in for 7-ball. Southridge's Stripes had a tough finish in game 1, scratch after she made the 6 to conclude a long chase. Harrison's Snuggle took the 7 to the bottom side from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. Another slow-paced battle in game 2 saw the Specters' Snuggle miss the 7 at the end. The Defenders' Stripes was there to clean things up for the win, tying the series at 1. In game 3, Stripes somehow worked her way to a four-ball run-out, benefiting from a double-kiss of the 6 into the bottom side. She beat Snuggle 2-1 in the series, and Stripes will visit Capital City Sharpshooters veteran Sprinkles in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Ellie v. Fluffina. The green cue exits the day after 12-ball. Capital City's Ellie somehow pieced together a run early in game 1, and she was patient with positioning. Infinity's Fluffina failed to keep pace, and Ellie got the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Torpedoes' Fluffina tried to go through the defense of the Sharpshooters' Ellie late in game 2. She came up short, and Ellie kicked in her last ball for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Game 3 went well for Ellie, who fended off Fluffina's early challenge. Ellie banked her last ball to the top left for the win to complete the 3-0 series sweep that earned her a hosting position in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Leonette v. Whiskers. The silver cue takes a turn in 13-ball. Pacific's Leonette had a good distribution to start game 1, but she struggled to finish things off. Maplewood's Whiskers stormed ahead just in time to win on a four-ball run-out for the 1-0 series lead. The Lumberjacks' Whiskers couldn't get herself organized at all in game 2. The Volcanoes' Leonette held the lead throughout, but it took a couple of attempts to finish it off with a three-ball run-out. The series is tied at 1. A comedy of errors unraveled the ending of game 3. Leonette scratched, but Whiskers followed up right behind her before both players searched for positioning. Soon after, Leonette sank the 8 illegally to gift the 2-1 series to Whiskers, who moves on to the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Ingrid v. Leandra. The visitor's third series today is in 8-ball as the blue cue joins the party. Tysini's Leandra had a strong push in game 1, while Southridge's Ingrid dropped off the pace after only a few shots. Leandra closed it out with a pair of shots for the 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Ingrid couldn't find a stronger pace in game 2, and the Hummingbirds' Leandra continued to show better on offense. Leandra earned the win on a four-ball run-out to secure the series at 2-0. Leandra got her game on with a nice run in game 3, while Ingrid again struggled to keep pace. Ingrid pushed later, but Leandra closed out the win for a 3-0 series sweep to get herself in the second round.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Sage v. Bandit. West Division foes go at it in Accuracy with the blue cue. Victoria's Sage had a tough time in game 1, and Swordpoint's Bandit did just well enough to pick up the 4-7 win for a 1-0 series lead. A more normal game 2 saw the Blades' Bandit miss a couple of chances to force overtime. The Spurs' Sage finally finished it off for a 2-3 win, tying the series at 1 in an impressive redemption game. Sage faltered again in game 3, blowing a massive lead and twice missing a chance to force overtime. Bandit held on just enough for a 5-6 win to grab an unconvincing 2-1 series win, which sends him to the second round. After the series, the league addressed a new development with the blue cue, a rattle in the back end. For now, maintenance will be performed on the stick to stabilize it, and if that fails to work, a replacement will be brought in.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Kitty v. Summer. The red cue checks out after 10-ball. Maplewood's Summer looked to be in good shape late in game 1, but she missed on the 10. Midland's Kitty took the shot at the top right for the win, and stole away a 1-0 series lead. Neither player was able to take control in game 2, leading to a choppy battle the whole way through. The Lumberjacks' Summer prevailed in the end with a pair of shots for the win to tie the series at 1 versus the Predators' Kitty. Game 3 was also slow, going right down to the wire thanks to rattled shots. Kitty was able to pick up the win in this one, and that gave her a 2-1 series win to set up a meeting with the Tysini Hummingbirds' Sugar in the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Blaze v. Gizmo. Today's finale is in Rotation with the silver cue. North Modernistic's Gizmo had a better start in game 1, but Infinity's Blaze pushed his way to the win with a big run in the middle and a pair at the end for the 8-4 win. Blaze leads the series 1-0. Game 2 went to the Nighthawks' Gizmo after he made a big push early on and backed up with a four-ball run-out. The Torpedoes' Blaze had no burst of offense as Gizmo tied the series at 1 with an 8-1 win. In game 3, Gizmo took the initial lead and got Blaze to scramble. Frustration set in on both sides and tempers flared before Gizmo won 8-2 to take a 2-1 series win. Gizmo will visit the Queens Flames' Violetta in the second round. 

That's it for the heatwave era (hopefully). An assessment on the blue cue's status going forward will be made in the next two days. It remains in playable but poor condition.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 21

Resilience keeps the league going for today, which will feature Sunday scheduling. First up...

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Panda v. Gabby. The silver cue makes the start today in 13-ball. Southern's Gabby had a good push on offense in game 1, but a scratch slowed her down. Everton's Panda couldn't quite gain control at the end, narrowly missing the 8 before Gabby won with a pair of shots to go up 1-0 in the series. The Monarchs' Gabby again had a big attack early in game 2, a scratch to set her back as the Eagles' Panda pushed, and then a recovery. Gabby made a three-ball run-out for the win this time, sealing the series at 2-0. Gabby wasn't able to finish a sweep in game 3, playing much more poorly. Panda took advantage of it for the win, but Gabby is headed to the second round on a 2-1 series win.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Peach v. Kacey. The red cue draws in for a 9-ball series. North Modernistic's Peach had some offense in game 1, but she left a few too many shots on the board. At the end, Royal's Kacey took the win with a 6-9 combination to the bottom right for the 1-0 series lead. A slow start to game 2 flipped to fast when the Nighthawks' Peach pulled off a six-ball run-out capped by double-potting the 5-9 combination to the top left with the 5 caroming to the bottom right. The Crowns' Kacey had no offense as Peach tied the series at 1. Peach took control with a four-ball run-out in game 3, sinking the 9 on a deflection off the 4 near the bottom left. Peach beat Kacey 2-1 in the series, and she'll host again versus the Pacific Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Max v. Blizzard. The red cue is done for the day after 10-ball between South Division rivals. Golden's Max had a nice run in game 1, but it ended with him sinking the 6 on illegal contact. Zenith's Blizzard took over for a three-ball run-out, winning on a 9-10 combination to the bottom right. The Pilots' Max showed impeccable control in game 2, running the table on his first turn for the win to tie the series at 1 versus the Skywatchers' Blizzard. Max couldn't pace the offense in game like he did before, leading to a hard-hitting and even battle. At the end, Blizzard sniped the 10 to the top right for the win and 2-1 series win that takes her to the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Rudolph v. Lily. A pair of Sharks do battle in 7-ball with the green cue. Rudolph established a 1-0 series lead on the game 1 break, with a textbook shot that sent the 7 to the bottom right for the win over Lily. In game 2, Lily had a little more joy with a three-ball run early on. She later missed on the 6, allowing Rudolph to tap in the final pair of shots for the win and 2-0 series lead. Rudolph opened game 3 with a pair of double-pots, then finished running the table with shots to the side pockets, sweeping Lily 3-0 in the series. Rudolph will visit Terrace City Knights veteran Oreo in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Puff II v. Strut. The blue cue checks in with Accuracy. Harrison's Puff II played well in game 1 and held her own late despite some challenging shots. Golden's Strut couldn't quite keep up, and Puff II took a 2-3 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Puff II had an early error in game 2, and she faltered late as well. The Pilots' Strut had some dodgy moments, but he handled it in a 2-5 win to tie the series at 1. Strut didn't do so well in game 3, faltering in the middle and at the end while Puff II held true for her 1-4 win. Puff II took the series 2-1 and will host again in the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Shadow v. Whiskers. A strong pair of players meet in 12-ball with the silver cue. Diamond's Shadow made a three-ball run on solids after sinking one of each on the game 1 break. His late error gave Maplewood's Whiskers a chance for a comeback, but she fell short before Shadow sank the 4 in the bottom right for the win and 1-0 lead in the series. The Lumberjacks' Whiskers hated the distribution in game 2, as it led to her making a pair for the Gems' Shadow. After that, Shadow still had some trouble but he had plenty of time to earn the win that secured the series at 2-0. Whiskers dominated with an early five-ball run in game 3. Shadow couldn't counterattack before Whiskers won, but Shadow moves on to the second round with a 2-1 series win.

BMW RockDome, Westside: Misty v. Smokey. The silver cue exits the day after 15-ball. A slow start on both sides gave way to an exchange of runs. Westside's Misty had a four-ball run just after the middle of the rack, but Pacific's Smokey answered on a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Misty had another surge late in game 2, a four-ball run this time, but the Volcanoes' Smokey cashed in a deflection off the 12 to sink the 15 at the top side. Two close battles have now favored Smokey, who clinched the series at 2-0. In game 3, frustration was a factor for Misty, who didn't have a great effort. Smokey wasn't sharp either, but a little luck at the end earned him the win and 3-0 series sweep. Smokey will be on the road again in the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Stripes v. Bells. South Division foes battle in 12-ball with the green cue. Southridge's Stripes was able to overcome a slow start, beating Zenith's Bells late in game 1 after a close battle. Stripes owns a 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Stripes had a big lead for much of game 2, but she couldn't make this one stick. The Skywatchers' Bells executed on positioning and made the winning pair after Stripes missed contact on her last ball. The series is tied at 1. Bells did better in game 3, picking up just enough offense early on. Stripes was unable to mount a comeback push, and Bells made her final pair for the win and 2-1 series win. Bells will visit the Royal Crowns' Brownie in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sugar v. Goldy. The purple cue joins the action in 15-ball. Tysini's Sugar had some nice looks in game 1, but she faltered on the 15 at the end. Everton's Goldy gladly sniped the win at the bottom side for the 1-0 series lead after not her best effort. The Eagles' Goldy couldn't get anything going in game 2. The Hummingbirds' Sugar played the wrong ball in the middle, but she was able to recover for a four-ball run-out later to tie the series at 1. Another slow-paced game 3 went in favor of Sugar, as she made a three-ball run-out this time to beat Goldy. Sugar won the series 2-1 and will host Swordpoint Blades veteran Bandit in the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Wario v. Angelica. The green cue is back for more 12-ball. Southridge's Wario struck first in game 1, but he wasn't able to sustain his offense. Lighton's Angelica took care of her positioning and won on a three-ball run-out for a 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Angelica had her moments in game 2, but she wasn't able to finish it off. The Defenders' Wario did better this time, closing out the win to tie the series at 1. Angelica seemed to hold a lead again in game 3, but she wasn't able to close it out again. Wario kept even with her defensively and then made three balls over his last two turns for the win. Wario won the series 2-1 and will host the Maplewood Lumberjacks' Vladimir in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Esmeralda v. Sage. The purple cue checks out after 8-ball. Harrison's Esmeralda had a bad break, scratched multiple times, and then sank the 8 in the wrong pocket after Victoria's Sage somehow hadn't ended game 1 earlier. Sage took the free win for a 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Sage remained the better of the two players in game 2, as the Specters' Esmeralda was too tilted to put in a reasonable effort. Sage owns a 2-0 series lead. Esmeralda finally got the edge in game 3, and while Sage nearly made a comeback, Esmeralda held on for the win. Sage took the series 2-1 and will host Swordpoint Blades newcomer Stephanie in the second round.

Volkswagen BeetleDome, Viewpoint Sound: Hoot v. Whiskers. The blue cue cycles in for 9-ball. After a bit of a slow start, Viewpoint Sound's Hoot made a three-ball run-out with a 3-9 combination deflected off the 5 to the top left as the winning shot for his 1-0 series lead over Maplewood's Whiskers. The Meteors' Hoot had a less impressive start to game 2, but the Lumberjacks' Whiskers couldn't capitalize. Hoot eventually won on a four-ball run-out with a 7-9 combination to the top left to seal the series at 2-0. Hoot had more of the offense in game 3 with a four-ball run, but he got shaky at the end. Whiskers held true to pick up the win, while Hoot's 2-1 series win sees him into the second round.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Steven v. Rosalina. The blue cue is done after a 13-ball set. Atlantic's Steven started well and then crumbled as game 1 went along. Victoria's Rosalina remained steady and clean to earn the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Rosalina held the lead for almost all of game 2, but she was unable to bring it home at the end. The Pirates' Steven was close enough to win on the final pair to tie the series at 1. In game 3, Steven had a chance to finish the series and couldn't do it. Rosalina was able to pick up the slack at the end, making a pair of shots for the 2-1 series win that sends her to the second round.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Yekaterina v. Jake. An 8-ball battle uses the green cue. Royal's Jake kind of came out of nowhere in game 1, smashing a seven-ball run-out for the win with a kick on the 8 to the bottom left to finish. He leads Victoria's Yekaterina 1-0 in the series. The Spurs' Yekaterina started a bit slow in game 2, then caught up near the end, only for the Crowns' Jake to make a pair of shots for the win. Jake sealed the series at 2-0. Jake was merciless on offense in game 3, attacking quickly. He faded late, but Yekaterina again came up short before Jake finished the 3-0 series sweep. Jake will face the Midland Predators' Americus in the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Vincent v. Jennifer. The top series today ends the action with the green cue in Rotation. Everton's Vincent had a great start in game 1 with a three-ball run off the break. He outpaced Terrace City's Jennifer after that, with Vincent winning 8-2 for a 1-0 series lead. The Eagles' Vincent had some offense in game 2, but the Knights' Jennifer ran away with the lead initially. Vincent clawed back, only for a scratch to end his comeback when Jennifer won 8-5 to tie the series at 1. Jennifer made three balls on the break in game 3 and still barely escaped with the win. Vincent came within an illegal contact of surging to the win before Jennifer held him off at 8-7. Jennifer is set to play in the second round on a 2-1 series win. 

Tomorrow is the projected end of the heatwave era, which will be the hottest day of UPCL pool on record.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 20

Heatwave pool continues today. First up...

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Bandit v. Graham. The blue cue is in for 7-ball to start the day. Swordpoint's Bandit nearly won on the break in game 1, but the 7 rattled out of the top right. Central's Graham took the early win with a 2-7 combination to go up 1-0 in the series. The Warriors' Graham had a tough time shooting around the table in game 2. The Blades' Bandit wasn't great either, but he made a three-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, Graham made a 3-7 kick combination to the bottom right, but the spin on the cue sent it into the pocket as well. Bandit took the gift win for a 2-1 series win that puts him in the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Gizmo v. Nikolai. The green cue draws in for 8-ball in the second series. Freedom's Nikolai took the early lead in game 1, but North Modernistic's Gizmo battled back to keep things close. Nikolai then made a four-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. Despite a strong push from the Cascades' Nikolai at the end of game 2, the Nighthawks' Gizmo was able to fend him off and cash in a strong start. The series is tied at 1. In game 3, Gizmo made a great push at the end as Nikolai faltered on offense. Gizmo picked up the win and took the series 2-1, and he'll host the Todavía Stills' Hughbert in the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Kodiak v. Solaris. The purple cue takes a turn in 15-ball here. Commerce's Solaris broke out in the middle of game 1 with a five-ball run. A chase ensued on the 12 until Solaris banked it to knock in the 15 at the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead over Web City's Kodiak. In game 2, another contested start saw the Spiders' Kodiak make a breakout late. Kodiak potted a four-ball run, then won on a banked 13-15 double-pot to the top right, tying the series at 1 versus the Tradewinds' Solaris. In game 3, Solaris appeared to have momentum near the end until he missed his 13-15 combination at the bottom left. Kodiak mopped it up for the win and 2-1 series win that gives him a hosting position in the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Marissa v. Omari. The silver cue enters the action in Accuracy. Zenith's Omari was solid in game 1, but Maplewood's Marissa maintained her pace after making three balls on the break. Marissa took a 1-2 win here for a 1-0 series lead. The Lumberjacks' Marissa got off to a sour start in game 2 with a scratch on the break. She never got back on track as the Skywatchers' Omari cruised to a 1-4 win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, neither player brought their best effort. Marissa was a touch better in the 4-5 win over Omari, and Marissa's 2-1 series win puts her in a hosting position in the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Stealth v. Nightfur. The green cue is back for 9-ball. Zenith's Nightfur had most of the offense in game 1, but a bold cut on the 8 ended in her scratching. Swordpoint's Stealth took the 9 to the bottom left from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Blades' Stealth was unable to make much offense in game 2. The Skywatchers' Nightfur smashed a seven-ball run-out with two long cuts, a two-rail bank and some short plays for the win, tying the series at 1. Nightfur kept the offense rolling in game 3, eventually taking control from Stealth and beating him on a five-ball run-out. Nightfur took the series 2-1 and will visit the Westside Rockers' Chimpy in the second round.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Solaris v. Cobalt. The host's second series today features the silver cue in 13-ball. Commerce's Solaris brought strong offense initially, then halted as both players struggled in the middle of game 1. Viewpoint Sound's Cobalt, but Solaris answered with a bank of the 8 to the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Solaris had a four-ball run at the start of game 2, but the Meteors' Cobalt matched and had better positioning. After a long battle, Cobalt took the win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, Solaris again took the early lead, and Cobalt pushed back late. It didn't pay off, as Solaris was able to eventually win despite a late scratch setting him back. Solaris took the series 2-1 and will play in the second round.

Porsche Events Center, Zenith: Bells v. Juno. The blue cue is ready to go in 15-ball. Zenith's Bells started decently in game 1, then completely fell apart. Stonebridge's Juno couldn't get anything going, but she got the win when Bells scratched after making an 11-15 kick combination to the top side. Juno holds a 1-0 series lead. The Wolves' Juno had a little offense early in game 2, but not enough to sustain any success. Her lacking attack was punished when the Skywatchers' Bells cleanly made the final pair for the win to tie the series at 1. Juno had some looks in game 3, but she missed contact on the 14. Bells made the final pair this time as well, taking a 2-1 series win into the second round, where she'll host the Everton Eagles' Puff III.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Steven v. Hershey. The blue cue goes again with an 8-ball set. Stonebridge's Hershey pushed late in game 1 with a five-ball run, but Atlantic's Steven was able to overcome his scratch and make a pair of shots for the win. Steven leads the series 1-0. The Pirates' Steven had a slower start in game 2, and the Wolves' Hershey rattled off a solid five-ball run again. Hershey missed on the 8, and Steven rallied back on a four-ball run-out for the win to seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Hershey finally got the better of Steven, who was a little slow on his offense at the end. Steven still won the series 2-1 and will play in the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Watermelon v. Acorn. The silver cue exits the day after Accuracy. Pearl's Watermelon was good enough early on to cruise to the game 1 win, as Lighton's Acorn quickly lost the pace. Watermelon took a 1-4 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Acorn held on a little longer in game 2, but a late fade ended in the same result. The Surfers' Watermelon held true for a 1-4 win again to clinch the series at 2-0. Watermelon faded quickly in game 3, unable to compete for a series sweep. Acorn took the 0-3 win, but Watermelon's 2-1 series win has her set to host in the second round.

Porsche Events Center, Zenith: Omari v. Waluigi. Former teammates clash in Rotation with the blue cue. Zenith's Omari struck early in game 1 to establish his lead. Web City's Waluigi couldn't keep up, and Omari closed out an easy 8-1 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Waluigi was much better in game 2, as the Skywatchers' Omari had a terrible break. Waluigi built a lead and fended off challenges to win 8-4, tying the series at 1. Waluigi scratched on the break in game 3, and Omari immediately made a three-ball run. After that, Omari remained stronger in an 8-3 win for the series win that sets him up to visit Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy in the second round.

Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Dustin v. Bells. The visitor's second series today is in 9-ball with the green cue. Central's Dustin had to watch Zenith's Bells make a four-ball run before answering with a three-ball run, but Dustin missed on the 9. Bells cleaned up the last shot for the win to go up 1-0 in the series. The Skywatchers' Bells took her chance when it presented itself in game 2, sniping a 6-9 combination to the bottom left to beat the Warriors' Dustin. Bells clinched the series at 2-0. Dustin was able to pick off a win in game 3, pulling together a three-ball run-out at the end to beat Bells, who took the series 2-1. Bells will be on the road again in round two.

Porsche Events Center, Zenith: Omari v. Nibbles. Another battle between former teammates plays out in 15-ball with the red cue. Zenith's Omari did slightly better on offense in game 1 than Web City's Nibbles. It was a slow game that saw Omari do enough late to get the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Nibbles battled back in another slow game 2, taking the win this time as the Skywatchers' Omari lost control late. Nibbles' win tied the series at 1. In game 3, frustration took over for Omari, and Nibbles capitalized on it with a three-ball run-out for the win. Nibbles took the series 2-1 and will visit the Golden Pilots' Sparkles in the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Briana. The red cue checks out after 12-ball. Everton's Cleo pulled off a four-ball run early in game 1 and held off Queens' Briana well after that. Cleo had no trouble in the win to earn a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Briana got off to a better start in game 2. She set herself up for success and capitalized when the Eagles' Cleo missed the ignition on what would have been her final run. The series is now tied at 1. In game 3, Briana struck first on stripes, but Cleo played out a five-ball run to take a commanding lead. Cleo then sank her last ball to the bottom right for a 2-1 series win to get into the second round.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Shawn v. Rainmane. The Predators' leaders battle it out in Accuracy with the green cue. Game 1 saw Shawn struggle initially, but Rainmane couldn't make her lead stick. Shawn battled back and won 3-4 to take a 1-0 series lead. In game 1, Shawn did much better early on. He faded a little bit later, but Rainmane didn't get a chance to tie the game up, with Shawn winning 2-4 to secure the series at 2-0. Shawn mailed it in a bit in game 3, leading to a rather sloppy performance. Rainmane easily handled things for a 1-6 win, but Shawn's 2-1 series win assures he'll host the Atlantic Pirates' Dusky in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Charli v. Diddley. The day ends with the purple cue in Accuracy. Maplewood's Diddley was slow to start in game 1, and he didn't have the time to recover. A double-pot from Tysini's Charli locked in her 2-3 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Charli couldn't hang on in regulation in game 2, but she had the last-shot advantage. The Lumberjacks' Diddley got nothing from the break, and Charli went on for a 3-4 win to seal the series at 2-0. With nothing to play for, both players relaxed in game 3. Charli still came out on top with a 2-4 win to sweep Diddley 3-0 en route to a hosting position in the second round. 

The plan is to continue playing tomorrow as the heatwave nears its peak. The play today was solid for the conditions, and after the action, the cues were cleaned to allow for a smoother shooting process.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 19

As the heat takes hold around the region, we begin a new day of action. First up...

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Solaris v. Smokey. The green cue starts the day in 12-ball as the host ends his split-day doubleheader. Both players had good positioning in game 1, but Pacific's Smokey was a little faster to capitalize on it as he got the win for a 1-0 series lead over Commerce's Solaris. The Volcanoes' Smokey scratched and overfilled on the game 2 break, solving his own problem. What didn't help him was how sharp the Tradewinds' Solaris was after that. Solaris cruised to the win and tied the series at 1. Solaris wasn't able to assert himself in game 3, as Smokey had the better positioning and used it well to get the win when Solaris missed contact. A 2-1 series win sent Smokey to the second round.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Frosty v. Rosalina. Another 12-ball set sees the blue cue activated. Victoria's Rosalina quickly got into her last ball in game 1, but she missed a bank to the top side. Freedom's Frosty stormed back on a five-ball run-out for the win to take a 1-0 series lead with confidence. In game 2, the Cascades' Frosty had an empty break, but she followed it up with a pair of three-ball runs. The Spurs' Rosalina didn't have time to set herself up as Frosty clinched the series at 2-0 with a win. Rosalina finally got a win in game 3, maintaining her lead throughout the battle. Frosty settled for a 2-1 series win to get into the second round, where she'll host Everton Eagles captain Goldy.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sarah v. Marsell. The purple cue is ready to play in 8-ball. Tysini's Sarah surged with a seven-ball run early in game 1. Whitewater's Marsell couldn't counter it, and Sarah eventually made the 8 to the bottom side for the 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Marsell picked up a five-ball run early in game 2, but the Hummingbirds' Sarah responded with an eight-ball run-out on the next turn. Sarah's massive attacks propelled to sealing the series at 2-0. Sarah wasn't quite able to complete the sweep in game 3, as she peaked at a four-ball run. Marsell was sharper on offense and picked up the win late, while Sarah rides a 2-1 series win into a hosting position in round two. This was Marsell's 100th unique opponent.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Peach v. Cubby. The purple cue remains active in 12-ball. North Modernistic's Peach retreated to defense in game 1, but Archtown's Cubby worked around her for a four-ball run-out anyway. Cubby holds a 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Peach had a decent start to game 2, but she couldn't finish it off. The Arrows' Cubby struck quickly and then made a pair at the end for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Peach wasn't able to corral enough offense in game 3, slipping up late with a missed contact. Cubby finished off the 3-0 series sweep with a tap-in, and he'll head to the second round in a visiting role.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Puff III v. Chris. The red cue takes a turn in 8-ball here. Everton's Puff III had some offense early in game 1, but she stalled out just as Capital City's Chris found his groove. Chris continued to surge to the end for the win and 1-0 lead in the series. The Sharpshooters' Chris couldn't get anything going in game 2, while the Eagles' Puff III was sharp from the start. Puff III easily took the win to tie the series at 1. Chris took some gambles in game 3, but his early pace on offense helped him maintain a lead. Puff III had a disjointed attack, and Chris got the win for a 2-1 series win to earn the right to host the Pacific Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty in the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Taylor M. v. Josie. The blue cue cycles in for Rotation. Viewpoint Sound's Josie had a good start, but lost the lead in the middle of game 1 as Eastside's Taylor M. surged. Josie then shot back on a four-ball run-out for the 8-6 win and 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Taylor M. put in a strong game 2, winning 8-4 as the Meteors' Josie failed to make much of a comeback effort. This tied the series at 1. Game 3 saw Taylor M. jump out to a large lead initially. Josie pushed back this time but couldn't quite catch up before Taylor M. finished an 8-5 win. Taylor M. took the series 2-1 and will host the Archtown Arrows' Hoppy in the second round.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Americus v. Hoot. The blue cue's last series today is in 15-ball. Midland's Americus had a little pop off the game 1 break, and she picked up the pace for a four-ball run-out that ended with the 11-15 combination at the bottom left. Americus' win put her ahead of Viewpoint Sound's Hoot 1-0 in the series. The Predators' Americus stayed hot to start game 2, but she cooled off later. The ending was a bit slow until the Meteors' Hoot made a pair of shots for the win to tie the series at 1. Americus had some looks in game 3, but Hoot was able to snipe the 15 to the top right at the end for the win in a close battle. Hoot moves to the second round on a 2-1 series win.

Ford Forum, Pronger: Avril v. Sydney C. The red cue is back for a 12-ball series. Pronger's Avril paced game 1, using a three-ball run and a set-up shot to produce offense and defense. Modernistic's Sydney C. couldn't answer it, and Avril converted the 2 to the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Union's Sydney C. executed a brilliant five-ball run in game 2, but her last ball refused to line up. The Tridents' Avril quickly replied with a three-ball run-out for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Sydney C. had her best chance at a win in game 3, but she couldn't make her last ball. Avril instead potted a three-ball run-out at the end to get the win and 3-0 series sweep that sends her to the second round.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Megan v. Sarah. Cousins battle in today's marquee series of 12-ball with the purple cue in its last outing. Tysini's Sarah had an early scratch and never really recovered in game 1. Oceanside's Megan wasn't great, but she did enough for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Sarah had a better start in game 2, and she defended well. The Waves' Megan still found a way onto her last ball, and she pulled off a three-rail kick to sink it at the top right after Sarah's scratch. Megan clinched the series at 2-0. Megan was good in game 3, but Sarah was just a touch better. Megan's missed contact at the end led to Sarah taking the 6 to the top right from ball-in-hand for her lone win. Megan will host again in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Luigi. The red cue rotates in for Accuracy. Pacific's Twinkie I brought the heat in game 1, staying perfect for a 0-2 win over Commerce's Luigi in a fast game. Twinkie I holds a 1-0 series lead. A slower start in game 2 saw both players miss shots early. The Volcanoes' Twinkie I then had a late scratch that put her behind, and the Tradewinds' Luigi held on for a 1-2 win to tie the series at 1. Twinkie I had a nightmarish start to game 3, falling apart early on with no time to recover at the end. Luigi grabbed a 1-3 win and advanced to the second round, where he'll return to this venue to face the Volcanoes' Smokey.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Katharine v. Spirit. The red cue checks out after a 15-ball series. Whitewater's Katharine seemed to have an edge on offense in game 1, but Lighton's Spirit got the win with a 14-15 combination to the top right. Spirit leads the series 1-0. The Prestige's Spirit had a little better offense in game 2, especially near the end, but her miss on the 15 cost her. The Shores' Katharine picked it off at the top right for the win to tie the series at 1. Spirit ripped a five-ball run from the start in game 3. Katharine tried to keep pace, but Spirit made a 6-15 combination with a deflection on the 13-12 combination for a game-winning double-pot. Spirit won the series 2-1 to earn her hosting rights versus the Southern Monarchs' Lorde in the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Hoppy v. Goldy. East Division rivals clash in 10-ball with the silver cue. Game 1 could have gone either way with errors and zipped-in shots all over the place. Everton's Goldy ended up missing the 9, and Archtown's Hoppy made a pair for the win and 1-0 series lead. Offense sparked to life in game 2, as the Arrows' Hoppy carved up a four-ball run over the middle before she missed contact on the 7. The Eagles' Goldy took over and made a four-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1. The offense remained in game 3, but more errors popped up. At the end, Goldy made the 10 on her second try with a bank to the bottom right to beat Hoppy 2-1 to get into the second round.

Porsche Events Center, Zenith: Blizzard v. Rachel. The silver cue goes again in 9-ball. Whitewater's Rachel handled business pretty well in game 1, chipping in pairs of shots on her way to the win and 1-0 series lead over Zenith's Blizzard. The Shores' Rachel played a little too loose in game 2, losing her pace as she aimed for positioning. The Skywatchers' Blizzard stole the win with a pair of shots at the end to tie the series at 1. Blizzard completed the comeback with a no-nonsense four-ball run-out in game 3, giving her a 2-1 series win over Rachel. Blizzard will host her appearance in the second round. This was Blizzard's 100th unique opponent.

Mitsubishi Arena, Apex: Midnight v. Fluffina. The green cue is done after 15-ball. Apex's Midnight didn't do well early in game 1, but Infinity's Fluffina was sloppy as well. At the end, Fluffina's scratch allowed Midnight to bury a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Wonders' Midnight had a nothing break in game 2, but a cluster-buster shot on the 1 ended up doing just enough to put the 15 in the top left. This stunned the Torpedoes' Fluffina as Midnight sealed the series at 2-0. Fluffina dodged the sweep with a very impressive six-ball run-out in game 3, leaving Midnight to advance to the second round on a 2-1 series win. Midnight will host the North Modernistic Nighthawks' Cheddar.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Smudge v. Easter. A captains' battle with the silver cue in 9-ball ends the day. A slow start to game 1 turned around when Todavía's Easter knocked a double-pot of the 4 to the top side and the 9 to the top right for the win. Easter leads Infinity's Smudge 1-0 in the series. The Torpedoes' Smudge was a little better in game 2, but she still couldn't put much offense together. The Stills' Easter took this win on a three-ball run-out to secure the series at 2-0. In game 3, Easter made it a quick finish by deflecting off the 2 with spin to drive the 9 into the bottom left to sweep Smudge 3-0. Easter will advance to the second round. 

Heatwave pool continues in the First Round tomorrow barring any setbacks.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 18

We're set to continue playing today. First up...

BMW RockDome, Westside: Goatee v. Gabby. The silver cue makes the start today in 7-ball. Westside's Goatee made a pair early in game 1, but Southern's Gabby shot back quickly with a five-ball run-out on her first and only turn. Gabby leads the series 1-0. The Monarchs' Gabby had an improbable four-ball run in game 2, but she didn't have a second push. The Rockers' Goatee was able to make the final pair of shots for the win to tie the series at 1. Goatee barely got an edge in a tight game 3, doing just enough to dispatch Gabby with a 2-1 series win. Goatee will host her appearance in the second round.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Nikolai v. Gizmo. The red cue gets a turn in 9-ball. North Modernistic's Gizmo tried to push with a three-ball run in game 1, but he missed on the 7. Freedom's Nikolai responded with a three-ball run-out instead to get the win and 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Nikolai had some offense in game 2, but he didn't have much control. This led to the Nighthawks' Gizmo making a pair of shots at the end for the win to tie the series at 1. Nobody was able to command their way to a win in game 3, but Gizmo picked up the pace late on a four-ball run-out to defeat Nikolai. Gizmo won the series 2-1 and will play in the second round.

Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Pounce v. Toki. The green cue activates for this 10-ball series. Experience paid off in game 1 for Southern's Pounce, as he was able to overcome his errors and make a pair of shots after Eastside's Toki missed contact on the 9. Pounce leads the series 1-0. A sloppy game 2 went to the Monarchs' Pounce. He fouled as he potted the 9, but the Sharks' Toki scratched after sinking the 10 on the next shot. Pounce took a free look at the 10 to the top left for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Pounce couldn't get anything going in game 3, and Toki made a deflection off the 2 to sink the 10 at the bottom left for his lone win. Pounce's 2-1 series win allows him to host again in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Spirit. West Division rivals clash in 12-ball with the blue cue. Pacific's Twinkie I made one of each on the break in game 1, and she tried to keep up the pace but lost positioning later. Lighton's Spirit was sharp to finish with a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Spirit scratched on the break after claiming solids in game 2. The Volcanoes' Twinkie I held a lead for a bit, but Spirit was able to close it out with a pair at the end to secure the series at 2-0. Spirit had a decent start with a pair on the break in game 2, but Twinkie I eventually made a five-ball run. After some battling, Twinkie I kicked the 5 to the top side for the win, leaving Spirit to advance to the second round on a 2-1 series win. Spirit will be on the road at Swordpoint versus the Blades' Stealth.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Rachel v. Smudge. The silver cue is back for a 13-ball set. Whitewater's Rachel had a great start in game 1, but the positioning didn't stick at the end. Infinity's Smudge had just enough time to finish off the 8 at the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Torpedoes' Smudge made a ball on the break in game 2, but it ruined her positioning. The Shores' Rachel stayed flexible and earned the win to tie the series at 1 with good offense. Rachel and Smudge had a close battle right to the finish of game 3, when Rachel buried a pair of shots and then nailed the 8 at the bottom right for the win. Rachel won the series 2-1 and is set to play in the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fuchsia v. Pauline. The red cue jumps in for Accuracy. Queens' Pauline hit the skids in game 1, but she bounced back and briefly tied the game before missing the last ball. Infinity's Fuchsia escaped with a 3-4 win this time to take a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Pauline made big improvements in game 2, but she still took a loss due to a late scratch. The Torpedoes' Fuchsia refused to be beat, a perfect 0-1 win enough for her to seal the series at 2-0. Fuchsia missed the chance to win in regulation in game 3 as she scratched late, but she won 2-3 in overtime after Pauline went empty on the break. Fuchsia swept the series 3-0 and will host Southridge Defenders veteran Wario in the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Bianca v. Marsell. The purple cue's lone series of the day is in Rotation. Whitewater's Marsell had a good few turns to start game 1, but Southridge's Bianca replied with five balls over her last two turns in an 8-6 comeback win. Bianca leads the series 1-0. The Shores' Marsell was ahead again in game 2, but he failed to bring it home. The Defenders' Bianca nosed ahead, Marsell retook the lead but missed on the 13, and Bianca added a pair at the end for an 8-7 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Marsell again got to the edge of victory, but Bianca wouldn't let him have it this time either. Bianca won 8-7 on a three-ball run-out, sweeping her way into a hosting position in the second round. 

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Shaggy v. Sydney S. The blue cue is back for a 10-ball set. Whitewater's Shaggy made a quick strike after a bad break in game 1. She deflected a shot off the 4 to sink the 10 at the top left for a 1-0 series lead over Boston's Sydney S. The Shores' Shaggy put in some good work early in game 2, but she couldn't sustain it. The Swifts' Sydney S. potted four of the last five balls to earn the win, tying the series at 1. In game 3, Sydney S. had a couple of looks on the 10 that didn't pan out. Shaggy then made a four-ball run-out capped by a 9-10 combination to the bottom left to take the win and 2-1 series win that vaults her into the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Sweetheart v. Starlight. The marquee series today is a captains' battle in 15-ball with the silver cue. Boston's Sweetheart got off to a slow start in game 1, but she made up for it with seven balls over the last two turns in a dominant win over Pacific's Starlight. Sweetheart has a 1-0 series lead. The Swifts' Sweetheart commanded most of the offense in game 2, but she appeared to falter late. The Volcanoes' Starlight pushed to make the 15 on a bank to the bottom left, but she scratched on the play to give the game and the series away as Sweetheart sealed it at 2-0. Sweetheart didn't have much left to give in game 3, so Starlight took up the pace and won with a double-pot of the 5 to the top side and the 15 to the top left. Sweetheart won the series 2-1 and will play in the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Watermelon v. Nightfur. Veterans battle in 15-ball with the blue cue. Both players put in some shots in a slow start to game 1. At the end, Zenith's Nightfur won on a five-ball run-out, finishing off a 13-15 kick combination to the bottom left to go up 1-0 in the series on Pearl's Watermelon. The Surfers' Watermelon needed only one shot in game 2 to tie the series at 1, making a 1-8-15 combination to the bottom left. This stunned the Skywatchers' Nightfur, who had made a ball on the break. Nightfur had a missed contact on the 3 in game 3, and that proved costly too. Watermelon lined up and converted the 3-15 combination to the top left from ball-in-hand for the win and 2-1 series win. Watermelon will host again in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Esmeralda v. Pedey. The blue cue stays in for Accuracy. Harrison's Esmeralda had luck on her side in a shaky but perfect 0-1 win over Todavía's Pedey in game 1. The Specters' Esmeralda faced a calmer game 2, allowing her to get away with a late miss. The Stills' Pedey was not great this time, as Esmeralda posted a 1-5 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Esmeralda had a worse start in game 3, and while she pulled back to even by the end, she sportingly set up Pedey for the last ball. Pedey converted for a 3-4 win, while Esmeralda's 2-1 series win sets her up to host East Division rival Vincent of the Everton Eagles in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Ruby v. Sydney C. The green cue is done for the day after this 15-ball series. Todavía's Ruby made three balls on the break in a fast-paced start to game 1. She didn't find much other offense, and Modernistic's Sydney C. eventually buried a 6-15 combination to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Union's Sydney C. didn't get much going in game 2, leading to the Stills' Ruby taking control on offense. Close-quarters shooting favored Ruby, who picked off the final pair for the win to tie the series at 1. Sydney C. had some looks in the middle of game 3, but nothing all that threatening. Ruby fired up her offense late and won with a six-ball run-out, carrying a 2-1 series win to a hosting position in the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Dreamy v. Wario. In 13-ball, the red cue gets another turn. Swordpoint's Dreamy had the edge early in game 1, but her execution of a final run never got off the ground. A miracle kick on the 15 for Southridge's Wario helped him get onto the 8, which took a few turns to convert at the top right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Blades' Dreamy got ahead early in game 2, but it took her quite some time to execute her finishing attack again. The Defenders' Wario was no sharper this time, and Dreamy picked up the win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, both players wanted to work on positioning before offense. Wario made more of a mess of his, and Dreamy was able to escape with a win for a 2-1 series win. Dreamy will host again in the second round.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Strawberry. The blue cue exits after a West Division showdown in 10-ball. Victoria's Strawberry had to pick her moments, but she did well at the end with a three-ball run-out. Lighton's Spirit was just okay in game 1, while Strawberry's win earned her a 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Strawberry appeared set to dominate game 2, but her late seven-ball run was brought to an end as she sank the 10 in an uncalled pocket. The Prestige's Spirit took her lone look at the 10 to the bottom side for the win, tying the series at 1. In game 3, Strawberry had a four-ball run early on. The two players tangled in the middle, then Spirit made a four-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win. Spirit will play in the second round as a hosting player.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Solaris v. Stinky. The host begins a split-day doubleheader in Rotation with the red cue to wrap today's action. Commerce's Solaris made a three-ball run that included a perfect masse shot on the 5 to the top right. Freedom's Stinky never had a real attack, and Solaris won 8-5 for a 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Solaris continued to play loose and attack well in game 2, and the Cascades' Stinky again fell short of answering that style. Solaris earned an 8-3 win and clinched the series at 2-0. In game 3, Solaris remained dominant with an 8-2 win as Stinky had nothing on offense. Solaris swept the series 3-0 to move into the second round. 

That's all for today. The heat will be on over the weekend, which could lead to some unplanned days off.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 17

We continue play under slightly more normal weather conditions today. The blue will sit out today's action. First up...

Ford Forum, Pronger: Potter v. Wild Thing. The purple cue makes the start today in 10-ball. Pronger's Potter had a slight edge on offense in game 1, but Web City's Wild Thing made the final pair of shots for the win. Wild Thing holds a 1-0 series lead. The Tridents' Potter tried to surge in game 2, but he missed contact on the 10 at the end. A free shot was all the Spiders' Wild Thing needed to earn the win that sealed the series in his favor at 2-0. Potter had six of the last seven balls as he approached a finish in game 3, but he missed the 10 twice before Wild Thing sank it to get the win and 3-0 series sweep. Wild Thing heads to the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Missy v. Rocky. The purple cue stays in for 13-ball. Oceanside's Rocky made both players' final ball on an impressive bank late in game 1. The close battle took a brutal turn for him when he missed contact on the 8, and Capital City's Missy put it away at the bottom left for the 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Rocky did better to protect his lead in game 2, while the Sharpshooters' Missy lacked her previous pace. Rocky was able to take the win fairly easily to tie the series at 1. Rocky had a hot start in game 3, and he was able to maintain positioning despite aggressive play from Missy. Rocky made a three-ball run-out at the end for the win to take the series 2-1, earning him a spot in the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Wings v. Mr. Snowman. The green cue takes a turn in 12-ball. Pearl's Wings made a four-ball run off the break in game 1, but Apex's Mr. Snowman fired back on a brilliant six-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Wonders' Mr. Snowman was quite as dominant in game 2, but his positioning was far better than the Surfers' Wings. At the end, Mr. Snowman made three balls on his last two turns for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Wings came closest to the win in game 3, but he couldn't get his last ball in the bottom right before Mr. Snowman made his final pair. Mr. Snowman won the series in a 3-0 sweep and he'll visit the Atlantic Pirates' Dusky in the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Taylor M. v. Puff II. The red cue's lone series today is in 15-ball. Harrison's Puff II made a four-ball run in game 1, but she fell short of victory. Eastside's Taylor M. answered it on a six-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead in a fast-paced battle. The Sharks' Taylor M. wasn't able to rediscover her form in game 2, with too much choppy play. The Specters' Puff II lacked a big run, but she was able to clean up the 15 in the end for the win to tie the series at 1. Taylor M. again struggled with building a run in game 3, and Puff II took advantage of this late by making the final pair of balls. Puff II won the series 2-1 and she'll play in the second round.

Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Noelle v. Frosty. East Division foes battle in Accuracy with the silver cue. Central's Noelle started out alright, but she made mistakes while Freedom's Frosty stayed perfect for a 0-3 win. Frosty leads the series 1-0. In game 2, the Warriors' Noelle held at a tie in the middle, but she slipped up late and the Cascades' Frosty emerged with a 2-5 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Game 3 saw Noelle fall behind early again, but she recovered this time as Frosty mailed it in. Noelle took a 5-6 win in overtime to avoid the sweep. Frosty will visit the Terrace City Knights' Jennifer in the second round after winning this set 2-1.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Chicky Phil v. Marissa. The silver cue remains in action for 8-ball. Midland's Chicky Phil took stripes early, but his offense wasn't very sharp. Maplewood's Marissa got the win on a five-ball run-out to go up 1-0 in the series. The Lumberjacks' Marissa scratched on the break but still started game 2 strong. Her finish wasn't as good, and the Predators' Chicky Phil roared back on a six-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, Marissa had a little less success on her shots, and Chicky Phil again punished that with a six-ball run-out. Chicky Phil won the series 2-1 and will host again in the second round. This was Chicky Phil's 100th unique opponent.

Volkswagen BeetleDome, Viewpoint Sound: Cobalt v. Vladimir. The green cue checks in with 12-ball again. Maplewood's Vladimir showed no hesitation to play physical, doing so to lock in game 1 after Viewpoint Sound's Cobalt couldn't make a late push. Vladimir leads the series 1-0. The Lumberjacks' Vladimir continued to find good positioning in game 2, while the Meteors' Cobalt wasn't able to contend very well. Vladimir made a pair after Cobalt's late error to get the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Cobalt again suffered a late error in game 3, and Vladimir again made a pair of shots to get the win, sweeping the series 3-0. Vladimir is headed to the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Shadow v. Katharine. The Bloodbath derby is renewed in 13-ball with the purple cue. Diamond's Shadow had better positioning in game 1, although it took him a little time to capitalize on it. Whitewater's Katharine was never threatening as Shadow picked up a 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Katharine made improvements in game 2, but she faltered near the end in a close battle. The Gems' Shadow was sharp enough to make a three-ball run-out for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Katharine salvaged game 3 after a brilliant kick on the 14 to the bottom side. On her next turn, she sank the 8 to the bottom right, leaving Shadow to move on with a 2-1 series win. Shadow will host the Swordpoint Blades' Bandit in the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Marsell v. Puff I. The purple cue goes again in 9-ball. Modernistic's Puff I alternated between brilliance and blunder in game 1, while Whitewater's Marsell was steady and won on a three-ball run-out. Marsell leads the series 1-0. The Shores' Marsell used a four-ball run late in game 2, but his miss on the 7 was costly. The Union's Puff I fired back with a pair of shots for the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was a bit of organized chaos, with Puff I coming up short on her attempt at the 9. Marsell buried it to the bottom right for the win and 2-1 series win.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Chris. A marquee captains' battle in 13-ball uses the green cue. A close battle in game 1 saw Golden's Valencia fall apart with a lack of positioning. Her missed contacts helped Capital City's Chris find his way to the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Valencia looked better in game 2, but she missed contact on the 9 as she attempted a kick to the top left. The Sharpshooters' Chris initiated a six-ball run-out from ball-in-hand to claim the win and seal the series at 2-0. Chris got down to the 8 in game 3, but Valencia didn't let him sweep, pulling off a five-ball run-out for her lone win. Chris won the series 2-1 and will face another captain, the Southern Monarchs' Pounce, in the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Salmo v. Taylor S. The green cue is done for the day after this Rotation series. A three-ball run off the break and a five-ball run-out on his second turn lifted Diamond's Salmo to an easy 8-0 win over Commerce's Taylor S. Salmo leads the series 1-0. The Gems' Salmo started great again in game 2, but he appeared to run out of steam at the end. The Tradewinds' Taylor S. made a massive comeback to get the 8-6 win, which tied the series at 1. Taylor S. started slow again in game 3, and no comeback chances came up. Salmo was merciless in picking up an 8-3 win to get the 2-1 series win, which allows him to host the Archtown Arrows' Sleepy B. in the second round.

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Dewey v. Mams. The purple cue cycles in for 12-ball. Stonebridge's Dewey made two solids and a stripe on the game 1 break. He ran with solids, playing fast enough to keep Swordpoint's Mams from catching up. Dewey sank the 4 at the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Wolves' Dewey went empty on the break in game 2, and that allowed the Blades' Mams to get a jump on stripes. Despite a late scratch, Mams still comfortably earned the win to tie the series at 1. Dewey ruined his chances of a comeback late in game 3 when he scratched. Mams was already set up for her last ball at the top side, and the conversion gave her a 2-1 series win to take with her into the second round.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Melissa v. Sarah. The purple cue goes again in 13-ball. Tysini's Sarah ripped a five-ball run on her first turn, but rattled the 6 out of the top right. She couldn't get positioning again, and instead illegally sank the 8 early to gift the win to Terrace City's Melissa, who holds a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Melissa looked to be in good shape for game 2, but she was surprisingly denied the chance to finish it off. The Hummingbirds' Sarah made a highlight-reel three-rail bank of the 1 to the bottom side before sending the 8 on a traditional bank to the bottom right for the win, tying the series at 1. Game 3 was a bit of a sloppy battle between the two players. Sarah wasted far too many chances, but Melissa only capitalized on about half of them, which was just good enough for the win and 2-1 series win. Melissa will play in the second round.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Spice v. Jack. A captains' battle begins the host's doubleheader with 8-ball and the purple cue. Victoria's Spice went on a huge run in game 1, but Web City's Jack answered with one of his own. The close finish favored Spice, who took a pair of tap-ins for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Spice had more trouble in game 2, and her slower offense gave the Spiders' Jack plenty of time to surge to a win. Jack's victory tied the series at 1. Spice wasted no time in securing the series at 2-1, winning game 3 on a mind-blowing eight-ball run-out. Jack was left stunned, and Spice will host the Todavía Stills' Sierra in the second round.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Spice v. Blaze. The host's doubleheader ends the day in 13-ball with the silver cue in a West Division showdown. Infinity's Blaze couldn't pull off the run he set up late in game 1. Victoria's Spice replied well with a pair of shots from tough angles to get the win and 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Spice didn't get anything lined up right in game 2. The Torpedoes' Blaze had to put some work in, but he went unchallenged for the win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, both players illegally overfilled pockets. It was a close battle the whole way, but Blaze made a pair at the end for the win and 2-1 series win over Spice. Blaze will visit Harrison Specters rookie Bucco in the second round. This was Spice's 100th unique opponent.

We'll be back tomorrow, hopefully at a slightly better playing pace.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 16

First Round play continues today with...

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Lionel v. Strut. The silver cue makes the start today in 12-ball. Both players looked a little timid in game 1. North Modernistic's Lionel had some bolder plays, but Golden's Strut eventually made a deep run to get ahead, and he won on the next turn to take a 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Strut didn't get what he wanted in positioning in game 2, but the Nighthawks' Lionel took a long time to capitalize on it. Lionel eventually got the win to tie the series at 1. Strut and Lionel each exchanged collateral damage in game 3. Lionel plowed through Strut's top right defense at the end, and Strut failed to force a replay when he missed at the bottom left. Lionel's 2-1 series win carries him into hosting Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M. in the second round.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Melissa v. Dominic. The purple cue gets the second series today in 8-ball. Southern's Dominic wasted a strong start and a look at the 8 near the end of game 1. Instead, Terrace City's Melissa made four balls over her last two turns for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Melissa made a six-ball run off the break, but a couple of scratches held her back. The Monarchs' Dominic tried and failed to capitalize on Melissa's errors, but the host was able to close out the win on a three-ball run-out to seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Melissa scratched early but recovered on an eight-ball run-out to stun Dominic for the 3-0 series sweep. Melissa will play in the second round.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Stinky v. Cheddar. The purple cue remains in action in 10-ball. Freedom's Stinky was sharp with a five-ball run on his second turn and a four-ball run-out after North Modernistic's Cheddar came up short on a counterattack. Stinky leads the series 1-0. The Cascades' Stinky didn't have as strong a grip on the offense in game 2. This more competitive contest led to the Nighthawks' Cheddar getting a win on a four-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. Scratches came through on both sides in game 3, but Cheddar was able to recover with a three-ball run-out in the end, and Stinky took the loss. Cheddar won the series 2-1 and will host Maplewood Lumberjacks captain Diddley.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Rosemary v. Taylor M. The silver cue returns for some Accuracy. Commerce's Rosemary had too much of a skid in game 1, allowing Eastside's Taylor M. to play patiently in a 2-3 win. Taylor M. holds a 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Taylor M. had a couple of slips early in game 2, and the Tradewinds' Rosemary didn't let her back in. Rosemary claimed a 1-2 win this time, tying the series at 1. In game 3, Taylor M. had a disaster run in regulation with three scratches. Rosemary couldn't grab the win then, and her miss late in overtime allowed Taylor M. to take a 4-5 win and 2-1 series win. Taylor M. will play on the road again in the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Marsell v. Bucco. The silver cue stays on in 12-ball. Whitewater's Marsell had a good start on stripes and executed a four-ball run-out later in a confident game 1 win. Harrison's Bucco struggled with positioning as Marsell pulled ahead 1-0 in the series. The Specters' Bucco had a much better push early in game 2 on solids. The Shores' Marsell had some positioning, but Bucco rattled off a strong three-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Marsell had a four-ball run in game 3, pulling off some improbable shots to get ahead. Bucco couldn't respond in time, and Marsell won the series 2-1 to set him up to visit Archtown Arrows sophomore Greg in the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Shadow v. Hoppy. The green cue draws in with 9-ball. Archtown's Hoppy dominated the pace of play in game 1, as Diamond's Shadow only had a handful of shots. Hoppy picked off the final pair for the win to get the 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw the Arrows' Hoppy get a little offense early on, but she missed a couple of looks with the 9 in dangerous positions. The Gems' Shadow capitalized with a deflection off the 6 to sink the 9 in the top left for the win, tying the series at 1. A tight battle to begin game 3 went in favor of Shadow at the end, as his lucky make on the 6 set up a four-ball run-out for the win. Shadow beat Hoppy 2-1 to get into the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Twinkie III v. Jack. The silver cue returns to action in 10-ball. Whitewater's Twinkie III went empty on the game 1 break, and Web City's Jack won with a 2-10 combination to the top left just two shots later. Jack leads the series 1-0. The Shores' Twinkie III was a little more involved in game 2, but this one had a slow pace. The Spiders' Jack ended up with the win anyway, making the final pair of shots to secure the series at 2-0. Jack did well again in game 3, closing up with a three-ball run-out to finish a 3-0 series sweep over Twinkie III. Jack will visit Harrison Specters newcomer Snuggle for a Halloween Derby in the second round.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Americus v. Cowzart. The blue cue is up now in 12-ball. Apex's Cowzart couldn't get any of his shots to land in game 1, while Midland's Americus was crisp early and patient late in the win. Americus leads the series 1-0. The Wonders' Cowzart got more offense in game 2 despite the Predators' Americus going on a three-ball run from the break. Americus stalled out after her scratch, while Cowzart was able to make his final pair with relative ease to tie the series at 1. Cowzart got another good start in game 3, and his defense at the top left stifled Americus completely. Cowzart won on a three-ball run-out to take a 2-1 series win with him into a second round series in Victoria versus Spurs veteran Sage.

Apple Center, Todavía: Ruby v. Ms. Kitty. The red cue activates for an 8-ball set between West Division rivals. Pacific's Ms. Kitty made seven balls over her first two turns of game 1. She came up short on the 8 at the top side, and Todavía's Ruby pushed all the way back with a seven-ball run-out. Ruby owns a 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Ruby thought she could make her counterattack despite some tight spaces in game 2, but she clipped the 8 to the bottom left for the instant loss. The Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty had already shown well to that point, but the win was a gift to help her tie the series at 1. Ruby couldn't execute her final run in game 3, missing the 2 from short range at the top left twice. Ms. Kitty was patient before getting the win to claim a 2-1 series win that sends her into the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Goldy v. Whiskers. The silver cue exits the day after Accuracy. Maplewood's Whiskers did enough defensively in game 1 to hold back Everton's Goldy early on. Whiskers faltered late, but held on for a 2-3 win to get the 1-0 series lead. A close battle in game 2 saw the Lumberjacks' Whiskers get the edge at the end with better defensive positioning. The Eagles' Goldy stumbled twice and Whiskers won 2-4 to clinch the series at 2-0. Goldy pulled even briefly in game 3, then slipped back behind Whiskers as she completed the 3-0 series sweep with another 2-4 win. Whiskers will head to the second round.

Ford Forum, Pronger: Spot v. Marsell. The visitor's second series today is in 15-ball with the purple cue. Pronger's Spot made a four-ball run late in game 1 after a close battle sparked from a lackluster break. He missed the 14, and Whitewater's Marsell responded with the final pair for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Tridents' Spot had another late surge in game 2, but this one also came up short. The Shores' Marsell wasn't as precise on offense this time around, and Spot was able to collect the win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, both players looked for complex plays. Spot was a little more fortunate to simplify his play at the end for the win and 2-1 series win, which sets him up to visit the Infinity Torpedoes' Fuchsia in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Max v. Juno. The green cue checks out after 7-ball. Golden's Max went empty on the game 1 break, and Stonebridge's Juno quickly made a 1-7 combination at the top side for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Wolves' Juno made two balls early in game 2, but the Pilots' Max struck for a stunning double-pot of the 2 to the top right and the 7 to the bottom side. Max's big play tied the series at 1. Neither player looked very good without fortunate positioning in game 3. Juno had the biggest blunder, scratching as she made the 5, and Max made the final pair for the win and 2-1 series lead. Max will host a former teammate, the Atlantic Pirates' Steven, in the second round.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Daisy v. Twinkie II. Along to 15-ball in the red cue's last series today. Oceanside's Daisy had a solid game 1, but her slow pace didn't work out in the end. Harrison's Twinkie II intervened with a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Daisy had a six-ball run and a five-ball run in quick succession in game 2, but she missed the 15 at the top right. The Specters' Twinkie II poached the win on a tap-in to seal the series at 2-0. Daisy didn't exit empty-handed, as she made an 11-15 combination to the bottom right for her lone win in game 3. Twinkie II won the series 2-1 and she'll visit Apex Wonders veteran Mr. Snowman in the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Vincent v. Lionel. The visitor's second series today is in 8-ball as the blue cue finishes its day. Both players began with a four-ball run in game 1, but Everton's Vincent failed to back his up. North Modernistic's Lionel went on a four-ball run-out later to get the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Lionel led for much of game 2 despite a scratch on the break, but he was too slow at the end. The Eagles' Vincent stormed back with a four-ball run-out to earn the win, tying the series at 1. Lionel made a four-ball run early in game 3, but an unnecessary gamble led to him sinking the 8 prematurely. This gifted the win and 2-1 series win to Vincent, who moves on to the second round.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Citrus v. Mr. Snowman. The day concludes with the purple cue in Accuracy. Lighton's Citrus couldn't get calibrated in game 1, faltering often as Apex's Mr. Snowman cruised to a 1-5 win. Mr. Snowman leads the series 1-0. The Prestige's Citrus improved greatly in game 2, but it didn't matter when the Wonders' Mr. Snowman turned perfect in a 0-2 win. Mr. Snowman secured the series at 2-0. Mr. Snowman essentially took game 3 off, slacking throughout as Citrus collected her lone win by a 2-6 score. Mr. Snowman will be on the road again in round two after a 2-1 series win. 

Heat continues to play a factor, but the First Round will continue tomorrow.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 15

We're ready to keep going today. This is the official midway point of the combined Play-In and First Round schedule, which was expected to lead to equipment maintenance. However, the players playing today will decide if that happens as planned, as the play has been exceptional in the last two days. First up...

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Panda v. Chris. The green cue gets the start today in 9-ball. After a little bit of a slow start, Everton's Panda smashed a seven-ball run-out that ended with a deflection off the 7 to drive the 9 to the top left. He took a 1-0 series lead over a hapless Capital City's Chris. The Eagles' Panda had a good break in game 2, but he struggled to put in consistent offense. The Sharpshooters' Chris struck back with a three-ball run-out at the end for the win to tie the series at 1. Panda and Chris battled in a much slower game 3, which saw Panda eventually win at the end with a pair of shots. Panda will host his appearance in the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Shelley v. Stinky. The purple cue goes second today, playing in 7-ball. Freedom's Stinky had an edge in possession thanks to a three-ball run, but he scratched as he made the 5. Infinity's Shelley potted the final pair for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Torpedoes' Shelley nearly took game 2 on the break, as the 7 rattled out of the top right and sat in front of the bottom right. At the end, it was a six-ball run-out for the Cascades' Stinky that resulted in the series being tied at 1. Stinky didn't let Shelley shoot in game 3. With a ball on the break and a sublime double-pot of the 2 to the top left and the 7 to the top side, Stinky took game 3 for a 2-1 series win to reach the second round.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Steven v. Tigerette. The purple cue stays on for a 10-ball series. Atlantic's Steven took some time to get in form in game 1, but he finished it with a four-ball run-out for the 1-0 series lead after Boston's Tigerette fell flat on offense. The end of game 2 was almost a carbon copy of game 1, but the Pirates' Steven missed on the 9 this time. The Swifts' Tigerette cleaned up the final pair of shots for the win to tie the series at 1. Neither player took control in game 3. The choppy battle ended with Tigerette sinking her first look at the 10 after Steven left it standing. Tigerette's 2-1 series win puts her in the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Boots v. Graham. The green cue is back in action for Rotation. Pearl's Boots had a surge to get on the brink of victory in game 1, but she came up short. Central's Graham bounced back with a four-ball run-out for the 8-7 win and 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Boots won more of the small battles in game 2, as the Warriors' Graham had a bit of a scratching problem. Boots' 8-3 win tied the series at 1. In game 3, Graham nearly got the win, but he missed his last shot. Boots rallied from way back on a five-ball run-out for the 8-7 win to take the series 2-1. Boots will host her second round series.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Cubby v. Ellie. Another Rotation series with the green cue is up. Capital City's Ellie had a good start to game 1, but Archtown's Cubby finished it off on a six-ball run-out. Cubby won 8-4 and took a strong 1-0 series lead with his burst of offense. The Arrows' Cubby had a good push in the middle of game 2, but the Sharpshooters' Ellie held him off late this time. Ellie took an 8-5 win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, both players had their moments, and the game was tied late. Cubby broke the tie on a three-ball run-out for the 8-5 win to take the series 2-1 over Ellie. Cubby will host another Sharpshooter, the captain Chris, in the second round.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Daisy v. Celestia. A new member of the Waves faces the new captain in 12-ball with the silver cue. Game 1 saw Daisy take solids on the break, but she was too slow to play her positioning. Celestia didn't hesitate much at all, needing just a handful of turns for the win and 1-0 series lead. Celestia had a hot start in game 2, but she was frustrated by Daisy's defense at the end. It was well played, as Daisy turned her blocking into a pair of shots for the win at the end to tie the series at 1. Daisy and Celestia battled right to the end of game 3, but Daisy scratched late. Celestia finished at the top side to get the 2-1 series win that puts her on the road for real in the second round.

Porsche Events Center, Zenith: Bells v. Snuggle. Former teammates battle in 10-ball with the silver cue. Zenith's Bells had a three-ball run to start game 1, but Harrison's Snuggle fired right back with a seven-ball run-out for the win. Snuggle's surge gave him a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Snuggle had a bad break in game 2. The Skywatchers' Bells broke things up better, but Snuggle made a pair on his next shot, then deflected off the 2 to get the 10 as called in the bottom left for the win. This secured the series at 2-0 for Snuggle. Bells had her best start with most of the early offense in game 3, but Snuggle still stuck her for a four-ball run-out at the end. Snuggle's 3-0 series sweep puts him in the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Gizmo v. Jane. The blue cue's lone series today is in 15-ball. North Modernistic's Gizmo kicked off game 1 on a five-ball run, but things slowed down after that. At the end, Stonebridge's Jane found her offense on a four-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 lead in the series. The Nighthawks' Gizmo had a tough time finding much offense in game 2. At the end, the Wolves' Jane rattled off a four-ball run that ended with a miss on the 11-15 combination before she added a five-ball run-out for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Gizmo tried to get a grip in game 3, but Jane opened with a five-ball run and added a pair at the end of another strong outing for the win and 3-0 series sweep. Jane is through to round two.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Kodiak v. Brownie. The green cue returns to action in 12-ball. Royal's Brownie struck first in game 1, but Web City's Kodiak pressured with a four-ball run in response. Brownie had no answer to that before Kodiak took the win and 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Brownie played a strong defensive structure after the Spiders' Kodiak took solids on the break in game 2. Brownie's defense held long enough for the win to tie the series at 1. Kodiak had some moments in game 3, but he couldn't get his last ball down. Brownie had a scratch late, but recovered for the win anyway as she took the series 2-1 to reach the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Kelsea. The silver cue checks out after Rotation. Capital City's Kelsea had a four-ball run in the middle of game 1, but she stalled out after that. Pacific's Twinkie I charged back slowly to pick up an 8-6 win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Sharpshooters' Kelsea had a couple of scratches that took points off the board in game 2. It likely wouldn't have changed much, as the Volcanoes' Twinkie I had a four-ball run and won 8-5 to secure the series at 2-0. Twinkie I started with a three-ball run in game 3, and that was her margin of victory over Kelsea in an 8-5 game. Twinkie I swept the series 3-0 to reach the second round.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Dusky v. Buddy. Pirates teammates meet in 12-ball with the green cue. Dusky was forced into a defensive stance early in game 1, but she wasn't able to make it work. Buddy eventually broke through with a pair at the end for the win and 1-0 series lead. Buddy paced the offense with an early four-ball run, but Dusky answered on a five-ball run to gain the lead late. Dusky finished it off at the top left for the win to tie the series at 1. Dusky showed remarkable flexibility in her strategy while shutting out Buddy in game 3. Dusky won the series 2-1 and will play in the second round.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Kiwi v. Hoppy. The purple cue returns to action in 15-ball. Terrace City's Kiwi capitalized on a foul by Archtown's Hoppy early in game 1. Kiwi made the 1 to the top right and the 2-15 combination deflected off the 6 to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Hoppy answered back just as fast in game 2 after a poor break from the Knights' Kiwi. Hoppy made the 1-15 combination to the top left, with a deflection sending the 12 to the bottom left as a double-pot. The series is tied at 1. Game 3 saw better pace on both sides. Some chances for a quick finish occurred, but it went the distance. Kiwi's four-ball run came up short, and Hoppy took a pair at the end for a 2-1 series win to get into the second round.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Celestia v. Jack. A captains' battle in Accuracy is the purple cue's last series today. Web City's Jack worked hard to get back into game 1, only to take a bad miss late that allowed Oceanside's Celestia to walk away with a 2-3 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Celestia kept the pace high, and the Spiders' Jack nearly held on. At the end, Jack stumbled a bit and Celestia picked up a 1-2 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Celestia couldn't finish off the sweep after an empty break led to some struggles in game 3. Jack took his lone win by a 2-3 score, but Celestia is set to host again in the second round after a 2-1 series win.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Max v. Paps. South Division rivals battle in Rotation with the red cue. Zenith's Paps had trouble early in game 1, and a later scratch didn't help his cause. Golden's Max used the ball-in-hand situation for a four-ball run-out, earning the 8-2 win to take a 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Max had a great start on offense and defense in game 2, stifling the offense from the Skywatchers' Paps. Later on, Paps found some room, but Max finished off an 8-3 win to seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Paps had nothing to show for his offense. Max took his time to win 8-3 again, sweeping the series 3-0 en route to the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Gradley v. Maison. Another South Division showdown ends the day with the red cue in 7-ball. Boston's Gradley took game 1 on the break as a bump off the cue deflected the 7 perfectly into the top right. Gradley leads Eastside's Maison 1-0 in the series. The Sharks' Maison got a chance to shoot in game 2, but his final turn ended in a scratch. The Swifts' Gradley replied on a three-ball run-out for the win, sealing the series at 2-0 in the process. Gradley nearly had a miracle shot on the 6 in a close battle, but it stayed up at the bottom right. Maison made the final pair for the win, while Gradley heads to a hosting position in the second round on a 2-1 series win. 

Per the players' request, equipment maintenance has been postponed. A rescheduled date is to be determined.