Tournament XI - First Round Day 31

We're ready for a full day on Sunday scheduling today. First up...

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Vladimir v. Spot. The red cue gets the start today in Accuracy. Maplewood's Vladimir looked great until he took a stick foul in the middle of game 1. He scuffled from there, allowing Pronger's Spot to pick up a 2-4 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Tridents' Spot again had a bit of a slow start in game 2, and this time the Lumberjacks' Vladimir was able to hold his lead. Vladimir took a 2-3 win with a sharp cut at the end and tied the series at 1. Vladimir scratched on the break in game 3 and completely melted down after that. Spot was nearly perfect in a 1-6 win to grab the 2-1 series win that allows him to visit Capital City Sharpshooters mainstay Missy in the second round.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Andrew v. Crystal. The blue cue will get the second series, playing 10-ball. Freedom's Andrew was a little better on offense with a four-ball run, but he missed on the 9. Queens' Crystal stepped in to make the final pair for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Crystal had to absorb pressure in game 2, as the Cascades' Andrew made a five-ball run that ended with the 9 in an uncalled pocket. Crystal took the chance on the 10 and left it short for Andrew to tap in at the top right, tying the series at 1. Crystal ceded too much possession in game 3, and she again didn't get a look at the end. Andrew closed this win with a four-ball run-out to take a 2-1 series win, and he'll visit Westside Rockers rookie Carly in the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Taylor M. v. Boots. The red cue checks back in for a 7-ball set. Both players scratched on their first turn in game 1. It ended up being worse for Pearl's Boots, as Eastside's Taylor M. made a four-ball run-out from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. A scratch on the game 2 break ruined the momentum for the Sharks' Taylor M. The Surfers' Boots replied with a three-ball run and then collected the 7 at the end to get the win and tie the series at 1. In game 3, Boots had a little more trouble getting on offense. Taylor M. made a four-ball run and converted her second attempt at the 7 for the win and 2-1 series win to move into a second round series versus Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Stealth v. Megan. The purple cue is up for a 13-ball series. Swordpoint's Stealth took solids on the break in game 1, but Oceanside's Megan looked better early on. Stealth found success after Megan scratched, as Stealth banked a shot to the bottom right to spark a four-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Megan had trouble executing on her shots in game 2, and that led to plenty of openings on offense for the Blades' Stealth. It was still a close game, but Stealth got the win for a 2-0 series lead by blocking Megan's last ball. Stealth used his second turn to belt a four-ball run, and Megan replied with a three-ball run that ended in a scratch. Stealth took care of business later for the win and 3-0 series sweep, and he'll visit Terrace City Knights star Melissa in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Spirit. Sisters do battle in Accuracy in the silver cue's lone appearances today. Golden's Valencia had many flaws in her game 1 performance, but Lighton's Spirit likewise struggled to finish it off. In overtime, Spirit's break was empty and Valencia made a shot for the 5-6 win and 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Spirit looked very good until she fell apart late in game 2. The Pilots' Valencia put in a much steadier effort overall and picked up the 2-4 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Spirit didn't want to go quietly in game 3, forcing overtime at the end, but she missed both of her chances on the extra rack. Valencia took the 3-4 win and swept the series 3-0 to earn the right to host Tysini Hummingbirds star Sarah in the second round with one of her four advancing bids.

Intel Center, Diamond: Debby v. Diddley. The purple cue gets another turn in 7-ball. Maplewood's Diddley thrived on hard contact in game 1, making a pair of three-ball runs to dominate on offense and earn the win over Diamond's Debby. Diddley leads the series 1-0. The Lumberjacks' Diddley slowed his pace a little bit early in game 2, throwing off the Gems' Debby slightly. Diddley then bounced back with a five-ball run-out for the win to seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Diddley continued to post a controlling interest in the offense, but he missed on the 7 this time. Debby collected it at the bottom right for her lone win, but Diddley's 2-1 series win sets him up to face his mate and Atlantic Pirates captain Delila in the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Debby v. Blaze. The host's doubleheader is finished with 10-ball and the blue cue. Diamond's Debby made a four-ball run in game 1, but her fate was out of her hands after sinking the 10 in an uncalled pocket. Infinity's Blaze kept possession and botched his shot, allowing Debby to get the win and 1-0 series lead anyway. The Gems' Debby had a fairly balanced start in game 2, but she couldn't up the pace later. The Torpedoes' Blaze closed out his win with a four-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. Blaze took some time to make an impact in game 3, but he struck for a three-ball run-out in this one as Debby didn't play well near the end. Blaze won the series 2-1 and will visit Whitewater Shores veteran Marsell in the second round.

Ford Forum, Pronger: Prism v. Gal. The green cue cycles into action for 15-ball. Both players maintained a strong pace in game 1, but it was Pronger's Prism who poked down the final pair to get the 1-0 series lead over North Modernistic's Gal. The Tridents' Prism had a foul when she couldn't get contact on the 1. The Nighthawks' Gal made the 1 and then deflected the 2-15 combination off the 8 and into the bottom left for the game 2 win to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Gal went for a bold kick but got air underneath the cue ball that resulted in a missed contact. From ball-in-hand, Prism converted a 4-15 combination to the bottom left for the win and 2-1 series win. She'll host Oceanside Waves captain Celestia in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Max v. Stinky. The red cue is done for the day after 15-ball. There didn't seem to be much intent in any of the shots in game 1, until Freedom's Stinky made an 8-15 combination to the bottom side for the win and 1-0 series lead over Golden's Max. In game 2, the Cascades' Stinky looked much more active, while the Pilots' Max still struggled to find his way. Creativity paid off for Stinky, who deflected a shot off the 6 to take the 15 to the bottom left for the win that sealed the series at 2-0. In game 3, Stinky had less prowess on offense, and Max looked a little more composed. It didn't change the result, as Max sank the 15 on illegal contact and gifted Stinky the 3-0 series sweep and a ticket to the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Wario v. Panda. The green cue makes an exit after 7-ball. In game 1, Southridge's Wario displayed excellent control in running the table for the win and 1-0 series lead while Everton's Panda could only watch. The Defenders' Wario ceded possession in game 1, letting the Eagles' Panda rally with a four-ball run. Panda missed on the 6, and Wario stepped back in to make the final pair for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Panda tried to chip in a bit more in game 3, but he was again stymied late before Wario made a pair for the win and 3-0 series sweep. Wario will visit Central Warriors star Noelle in the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Boots v. Jane. The purple cue is back for a 10-ball set. Pearl's Boots had a rather standard effort in game 1. Stonebridge's Jane looked to be headed for much the same until her three-ball run-out at the end, which gave her the win and 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Boots plucked a three-ball run at one point in game 2, and she generally looked better this time, but the Wolves' Jane picked off the last two balls for the win. Jane sealed the series at 2-0. In game 3, Jane didn't have any big attacks. Boots was able to step in for a five-ball run-out at the end, earning her lone win, while Jane's 2-1 series win lines her up to host Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II in the second round.

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Dewey v. Bells. The blue cue takes a turn in 13-ball. Zenith's Bells had an excellent push in game 1, controlling the play on stripes. She got a little help when Stonebridge's Dewey scratched, allowing Bells to pull off a three-ball run-out from ball-in-hand for the 1-0 series lead. The Skywatchers' Bells didn't recreate her success in game 2, as a late scratch stalled her just enough for the Wolves' Dewey to pick his way ahead. Dewey played smart at the end to get the win and tie the series at 1. Dewey found a nice groove on stripes in the middle of game 3, and that lifted him far enough ahead of Bells to cruise to the finish. Dewey won the series 2-1 and will host the Victoria Spurs' Rosalina in the second round. Bells will carry four bids into the next round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Ruby v. Cheddar. The purple cue is ready for a turn in Rotation. Todavía's Ruby enjoyed a little good luck early in game 1, and then finished things off to prevent a comeback push from North Modernistic's Cheddar. Ruby leads the series 1-0 after an 8-5 win. The Nighthawks' Cheddar turned up the power early in game 2 to work a four-ball run. Her lead evaporated under pressure from the Stills' Ruby, but Cheddar closed out an 8-5 win with a three-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was a much more tense battle between the two veterans. Ruby got just enough at the end for an 8-6 win over Cheddar, and Ruby's 2-1 series win sets her up for a West Division battle with Pacific Volcanoes mainstay Ms. Kitty in the second round.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Kitty v. Boots. Club-mates do battle in 8-ball for the purple cue's last turn today. Midland's Kitty had a promising start in game 1, but Pearl's Boots surged after that. In the end, Boots got the win with a three-ball run-out to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Predators' Kitty appeared a little stronger in game 2, keeping pace with the Surfers' Boots in a tight battle. At the end, Kitty's trick play resulted in the 8 going down prematurely, which gifted the win and the series at 2-0 to Boots. In game 3, Kitty tried to play big on offense at the end, and she gifted away another result by scratching as she made the 8. Boots ended up with a 3-0 series sweep and a ticket to the second round versus Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Bucco v. Stealth. The blue cue gets the finale today in 15-ball. Harrison's Bucco had an unremarkable start to game 1, and it was Swordpoint's Stealth who made the late push by winning on a seven-ball run-out. Stealth owns a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Bucco appeared to be the one making a charge in game 2 with his three-ball run, but a late error stalled him out. The Blades' Stealth gladly made the final pair for the win to secure the series at 2-0. In game 3, Bucco finally was able to keep pace and grab a win with a pair of shots at the end. Stealth went on for a 2-1 series win, and he'll visit club-mate and Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot in the second round. 

We'll be back on the usual scheduling pattern tomorrow, or perhaps even a bit earlier as we push through the First Round.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 30

We continue along, and after all the fanfare of the blue cue switch yesterday, the brand new stick is not scheduled to play today. Leading off...

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Oreo v. Megan. The green cue gets the start today in 8-ball. Terrace City's Oreo made one of each on the break but scratched on the next shot. Oceanside's Megan had some looks, but Oreo's four-ball run and double-pot on consecutive turns put her onto the 8, which she sank to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Oreo opened game 2 on a seven-ball run, but she missed both of her looks at the 8. The Waves' Megan fired back with a six-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Megan started hot on a six-ball run in game 3, but Oreo denied her a second turn by running out all eight shots for the impressive win. Oreo took the series 2-1 and will visit Lighton Prestige sophomore Angelica in the second round.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Isabella v. Wings. The silver cue makes the second appearance today in 10-ball. Atlantic's Isabella had a terrible break in game 1, and that slowed down the offense. Pearl's Wings eventually broke through, his reckless style finding success with a four-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Wings had a solid break in game 2 and paced the offense early on. The Pirates' Isabella took over with a three-ball run-out, ending with a light deflection off the 8 to sink the 10 to the bottom left, tying the series at 1. Wings opened game on a four-ball run, but Isabella fired back with a pair of three-ball runs to get the win. Isabella won the series 2-1 and will play in the second round, one of her two bids to advance.

Apple Center, Todavía: Pedey v. Americus. Club-mates battle in 10-ball with the purple cue. Todavía's Pedey had a solid start, but it was his finish of five balls over the last two turns that gave him a 1-0 series lead over Midland's Americus, who missed her kick on the 10 toward the top left. The Stills' Pedey had some explosive offense in game 2, but he wasn't able to contain it very well. The Predators' Americus picked off the 10 to the bottom left for the win, tying the series at 1. Americus had momentum late in game 3 with a four-ball run, but she left the 10 at the bottom left. Pedey poked it down for the win and 2-1 series win to get a hosting position versus Stonebridge Wolves strongman Hershey in the second round. Despite the loss, Americus carries three bids forward.

Porsche Events Center, Zenith: Bells v. Ice Cream. South Division rivals tangle in 7-ball with the red cue. Zenith's Bells had a six-ball run off the break in game 1, but she missed on the 7 at the top left. Boston's Ice Cream poached the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Swifts' Ice Cream continued to play well on offense in game 2, doing much more than the Skywatchers' Bells. Ice Cream was able to finish her strong effort with a three-ball run-out, sealing the series at 2-0. Ice Cream started with a four-ball run in game 3, but Bells fired back on a three-ball run-out to avoid the sweep. Ice Cream settled for a 2-1 series win to get into the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Goldy v. Shawn. A captains' battle in Rotation sees the red cue exit the day. Everton's Goldy had a decent start in game 1, but it took her awhile to shake off Midland's Shawn. Goldy eventually closed out an 8-4 win with choppy offense to take a 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Shawn had few chances to shoot in game 2, as the Eagles' Goldy dominated from the start and took an 8-1 win to clinch the series at 2-0. In game 3, Shawn took the initial lead, but he stalled out in the middle. Goldy picked up her offense and got the 8-5 win to sweep the series 3-0 en route to the second round, one of her four advancing bids.

Sony Center, Queens: Mario v. Puff III. The purple cue is back in action for 12-ball. Queens' Mario was searching for offense through most of game 1, while Everton's Puff III played at a high and steady pace to get the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Mario took out the top rail very quickly in game 2, but he had no positioning after that. The Eagles' Puff III overcame an early scratch and attacked with more pace to earn the win that secured the series at 2-0. Mario took another large lead in game 3, only for Puff III to erase it on a four-ball run. Mario couldn't make his last ball at the top side, and Puff III did just that for the win and 3-0 series sweep as she heads to the second round. This was Puff III's 100th unique opponent.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Jack v. Melissa. The purple cue goes again in a Rotation series. Web City's Jack started well, dipped in the middle to let Terrace City's Melissa back in, then rushed away on a three-ball run-out. Jack won 8-4 and owns a 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Jack couldn't get anything going in game 2. It took a little time for the Knights' Melissa to attack, but she ripped a four-ball run-out for the 8-0 win to tie the series at 1 once she got going. Melissa took the initial lead in game 3, but a five-ball run over the middle lifted Jack to the lead. He was able to finish with an 8-4 win to beat Melissa 2-1 in the series, and it's Jack who heads to the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Slinks v. Bear. The silver cue cycles in here for an 8-ball series. Tysini's Slinks only had one good turn in game 1, while Commerce's Bear surged on offense with a pair of four-ball runs for the win. Bear holds a 1-0 series lead with his pacey attack. The Hummingbirds' Slinks found a four-ball run in game 2, but faltered as the Tradewinds' Bear got onto the 8 with a five-ball run. Bear missed his chance to win, and Slinks rallied with a four-ball run-out to tie the series at 1 with her win. Slinks had some offense in game 3, but it was a close battle with few open shots. At the end, Bear stepped in with a three-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win, which sets him up to visit Midland Predators veteran Chicky Phil in the second round.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Rosemary v. Puff II. The purple cue is back for more 8-ball. Commerce's Rosemary attacked well early in game 1, but she couldn't fend off a late push from Harrison's Puff II. At the end, Puff II put the 8 away at the bottom left for the 1-0 series lead. The roles reversed in game 2 as the Specters' Puff II pulled out to a nice lead in game 2. The Tradewinds' Rosemary needed three turns to bounce back, but she closed out a win with a four-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. In game 3, Puff II looked to pull away near the end, but she couldn't get the 8 to go down. Rosemary held just long enough to get the win for a 2-1 series win to put her in a hosting position in the second round.

Google Hall, Modernistic: Puff I v. Gizmo. The bitterest of North Division rivalries is on in Accuracy with the purple cue. North Modernistic's Gizmo tried to quiet a rowdy crowd in game 1, but he missed his last three shots to throw away the result. Modernistic's Puff I snagged a 2-3 win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Union's Puff I had a chance to win in regulation in game 2, but her scratch forced overtime. The Nighthawks' Gizmo got nothing on the overtime break, and Puff I converted for another 2-3 win to secure the series at 2-0. Puff I didn't have a chance in a close game 3, as Gizmo put in a perfect effort to earn a 0-2 win. Puff I took the series 2-1 and will host Swordpoint Blades newcomer Stephanie in the second round.

Kraft Forum, Royal: Kayla v. Tigerette. The silver cue returns to action with 8-ball. Boston's Tigerette made a late push on offense in game 1, but Royal's Kayla battled back just in time at the end to earn the win. Kayla leads the series 1-0. The Crowns' Kayla had most of the early offense in a fast game 2. At the end, she fell a little short on the 8, and the Swifts' Tigerette answered on a six-ball run-out to tie the series at 1 game apiece. In game 3, both players had their moments on offense before a nervy finish. Tigerette eventually cut the 8 to the bottom left while narrowly avoiding a scratch at the top left to take the 2-1 series win over Kayla. Tigerette will visit the Everton Eagles' Panda in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Slinks v. Cubby. The host's second series today uses the silver cue in 13-ball. Archtown's Cubby struck first in game 1, but it didn't last for him on offense. Bad positioning allowed Tysini's Slinks to sneak in for the lead and eventually the win. Slinks holds a 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Cubby got deep in game 2, but couldn't do anything with his last ball ticketed for the bottom side. The Hummingbirds' Slinks made a four-ball run to pull ahead and then added the 8 at the top side for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Cubby had another good look at a win in game 3, but he couldn't take care of business. Slinks came from behind for the win and the 3-0 series sweep to earn the right to host Commerce Tradewinds star Solaris in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Starlight v. Lindsay. A captain and a rookie send the silver cue on its way in Accuracy. Pacific's Starlight made a pair on the break, but a scratch in the middle of game 1 ruined her pace. She slipped behind and Stonebridge's Lindsay easily closed out a 2-4 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Wolves' Lindsay refused to yield an inch in game 2, and the Volcanoes' Starlight eventually faded off the pace. Lindsay stayed perfect in her 0-4 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Lindsay put in another perfect effort in game 3, using a double-pot near the end to cut off any chance of Starlight finding a comeback. The 0-3 win gave Lindsay a 3-0 series sweep and a ticket home to host the Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M. in the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Bandit v. Rainmane. The green cue checks out after 10-ball. Midland's Rainmane had the better of the offense in game 1, and she closed out the win on a three-ball run-out after Swordpoint's Bandit struggled late. Rainmane leads the series 1-0. The Predators' Rainmane had a four-ball run near the end of game 2, but she ended with a scratch while missing the 10. The Blades' Bandit took the ball-in-hand play for the win to tie the series at 1. Bandit had a problem with scratches in game 3, committing four of them with the last coming on the 10. Rainmane gladly took a free win to claim a 2-1 series win that lines her up to visit Southern Monarchs captain Pounce in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Kelsea v. Hoot. The finale today is in 12-ball with the purple cue. Capital City's Kelsea took stripes on the break in game 1, and she was able to distribute her balls well on a cluster-buster. Viewpoint Sound's Hoot never caught up as Kelsea won for the 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Kelsea made one of each on the game 2 break, but she chose stripes and didn't enjoy her late-game positioning. The Meteors' Hoot struggled for quite awhile too, but he corrected course with a four-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Hoot put in a fantastic start to game 3, and that made it too much for Kelsea to overcome. Hoot eventually unraveled the finish for a win and took the series 2-1 to get into a second round meeting versus Everton Eagles mainstay Puff III. 

That's all for today. Tomorrow's action will likely be under Sunday scheduling protocols.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 29

It's send-off day for the blue cue, which is set to be replaced soon. While it's unclear if the new blue cue will enter the mix today, there are no blue assignments for tomorrow's action, which should guarantee a changing of the guard by Sunday. All stadium lights today will be blue in honor of the retiring stick, which also leads us off with...

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Wings v. Acorn. The first series today is in 13-ball and using the blue cue. Pearl's Wings made one of each on the break in game 1, and he rode with solids to great success. Lighton's Acorn had no luck setting himself up, and Wings took the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Acorn had a fancy double-pot in game 2, but he couldn't get his later shots to hit very well. The Surfers' Wings worked all the way back and made a pair for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. In game 3, Wings' offense remained smooth and fast, leaving Acorn no chance to salvage a result. Wings swept the series 3-0 and will play in the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Wild Thing v. Shiny. The blue cue goes again in Accuracy. Web City's Wild Thing had a strong start to game 1, then faltered later on. Lighton's Shiny pushed but couldn't keep it tied on the last ball, and Wild Thing converted for a 3-4 win to go up 1-0 in the series. The Prestige's Shiny held a lead for most of a close game 2, but she faltered at the end. She made a ball on the overtime break but missed again later, and the Spiders' Wild Thing took a 2-3 win to secure the series at 2-0. Wild Thing completed the sweep with little trouble in a 2-5 win over Shiny in game 3. Wild Thing will advance to the second round. This was the last regular series on the old blue cue.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Sparkles v. Molly. The purple cue cycles in for its lone series today in 9-ball. Golden's Sparkles was a bit too inconsistent on offense in game 1, while Southern's Molly was able to fill in the gaps for the win and 1-0 series lead. Neither player showed much command in game 2 until the Monarchs' Molly made a 6-9 kick combination to the top left for the win. She clinched the series at 2-0 over the Pilots' Sparkles, who was not very sharp on offense. Sparkles got a little revenge with a clean finish in game 3 after Molly was only okay on offense. Molly still won the series 2-1 and will head to a visiting assignment in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Avril. The silver cue takes a twirl in 7-ball. Pacific's Twinkie I handled her business at the end of game 1, making a four-ball run-out after Pronger's Avril left the 4 standing. Twinkie I owns a 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Twinkie I had a couple of good turns in game 2, but the Tridents' Avril stepped in at the end with a three-ball run-out for the win. This tied the series at 1. Twinkie I continued to find some offense in game 3, but she left the 7 standing again, and Avril buried it at the bottom side for the win. Avril's 2-1 series win takes her into the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Charli v. Panda. The green cue enters the action in 12-ball. Tysini's Charli took an early lead in game 1, but her late offense wasn't very productive. Everton's Panda had enough time to rally with a pair of shots for the win and 1-0 series lead as his positioning served him better. The Hummingbirds' Charli played for the long run in game 2, taking solids early while sacrificing positioning. The Eagles' Panda got hung up on the sides at the end, and Charli stole the win to tie the series at 1. Charli started strong in game 3 as well, making a three-ball run off the break. Panda took too long on the setup and never got to finish, as Charli struck at the bottom right for a 2-1 series win that allows her to host in the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Mams v. Gradley. The green cue remains in action for an Accuracy battle. A close battle in game 1 was decided on a scratch by Swordpoint's Mams right near the end. Boston's Gradley converted the last ball for a 2-3 win to take a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was very similar with both players engaging well on offense. The Swifts' Gradley was the one to falter just at the end this time, and the Blades' Mams stepped in to make the last ball for a 2-3 win that tied the series at 1. Mams and Gradley put on a show in game 3, battling back and forth throughout. Gradley just had an edge at the end to grab the 1-2 win for the 2-1 series win that sets him up to visit Pearl Surfers co-captain Neopolitan in the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Shelley v. Dustin. More Accuracy sees the silver cue cycle in again. Some aggression from Central's Dustin left him overextended while Infinity's Shelley had just one mistake on a follow-through scratch. Shelley won 1-3 and took a 1-0 series lead. Things were a little closer in game 2, but the Warriors' Dustin suffered a miss on the final ball. The Torpedoes' Shelley deposited it to the bottom right for the 1-2 win to seal the series at 2-0. Both players were even after Shelley skidded in the middle of game 3. At the end, she played an intentional miss to give Dustin the 2-3 win. Shelley takes a 2-1 series win with her into a second round meeting with another Warrior, the newcomer Klaus.

BMW RockDome, Westside: Carly v. Panda. The new blue cue makes its debut in the middle of the action for 10-ball. After a brief standing ovation before the series, Westside's Carly looked like a seasoned veteran in game 1. She made a pair of three-ball runs to earn the win and 1-0 series lead over Everton's Panda. The Rockers' Carly had a bit more trouble getting things to go her way in game 2, but the Eagles' Panda picked up the slack and made a late pair for the win. This tied the series at 1. Carly had a fantastic time wrapping up game 3 after Panda didn't get much offense going. Carly made a six-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win, and she'll host again in the second round. After the series, both players agreed the new cue shot well, although there were some concerns about its breaking ability. This was Panda's 100th unique opponent.

Mitsubishi Arena, Apex: Cowzart v. Toki. The new blue cue continues in an 8-ball series, its last turn of the day. A close start opened up when Apex's Cowzart made a four-ball run before missing on the 8. Eastside's Toki replied with a five-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw the Wonders' Cowzart fire back with force while the Sharks' Toki struggled to get his offense going. Cowzart's early five-ball run and strong finish gave him the win to tie the series at 1. Toki took back the lead in game 3, striking early and often. Despite Cowzart's late attempt at defense, Toki won with a kick on the 8 at the bottom left, showing full confidence in the new cue. Toki took the series 2-1 and will host Tysini Hummingbirds captain Leandra in the second round.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Celestia v. Marissa. The green cue is back for Rotation. Oceanside's Celestia started well in game 1, but she couldn't keep it up. Maplewood's Marissa smashed a four-ball run-out at the end for an 8-5 win and 1-0 series lead. In game 2, the Lumberjacks' Marissa couldn't find any offense. The Waves' Celestia struck first and then added a seven-ball run-out for the 8-0 win to tie the series at 1. Celestia kept going with a three-ball run off the break in game 3. Marissa tried to keep it close, but Celestia escaped with an 8-4 win despite a couple of errors. Celestia won the series 2-1 and will host Stonebridge Wolves newcomer Dewey in the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Gal v. Misty. North Division rivals battle in 12-ball for the red cue's only series of the day. North Modernistic's Gal was simply a bit faster on offense in game 1, and Westside's Misty likely came up a turn too slow. Gal holds a 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Gal had a great start to game 2, but the Rockers' Misty quickly answered it. Gal then flubbed her attempt on the 10 at the bottom side and Misty worked a three-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Misty smashed down two solids and a stripe on the break in game 3. Gal tried to stay competitive, but she had no angle at the top side, and Misty earned the win at the top right for a 2-1 series win. Misty will visit Everton Eagles star Cleo in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Omari. A captain and a sophomore tangle in 8-ball with the green cue. Todavía's Easter had a strong start in game 1, but she couldn't do anything about Zenith's Omari unleashing a six-ball run-out for the comeback win. Omari holds the series lead at 1-0. The Skywatchers' Omari wanted to distribute his shots a little better in game 2, but once he freed them up, the Stills' Easter fired back on a four-ball run-out for the win. Easter tied the series at 1 while controlling play at the side pockets. Easter scratched on the break in game 3, but Omari failed to claim a suit. Easter then made a six-ball run that ended in illegal contact before sinking her final pair for the win to seal the series at 2-1. Easter will host again in the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Lily v. Sally. The green cue goes again in 12-ball. Eastside's Lily had a good start on stripes in game 1, and she kept up the pace later. Archtown's Sally made some moves, but Lily's lead was too much to overcome as the host went ahead 1-0 in the series. The Sharks' Lily made four stripes and two solids on the opening turn of game 2. Despite the help, the Arrows' Sally scratched on her lone shot, and Lily banked and kicked her last shots in for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Lily didn't get as good of a start in game 3, but she still kept things competitive until a late scratch. Sally made her last pair of shots with no trouble for her lone win, while Lily heads to the second round on a 2-1 series win.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Yekaterina v. Fluffina. A West Division battle in 7-ball sees the silver cue exit the day. Victoria's Yekaterina wasted no time in making a four-ball run in game 1, but Infinity's Fluffina fired right back on a three-ball run-out for the win. Fluffina leads the series 1-0. The Torpedoes' Fluffina kept the offense going with a pair on the break in game 2, and she ran the table after that to clinch the series at 2-0. Fluffina stretched her consecutive balls streak to 16 before missing the 7 twice at the end of game 3. The Spurs' Yekaterina stole the win at the bottom right to avoid the sweep, but Fluffina's 2-1 series win puts her in the second round versus Pronger Tridents veteran Avril.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Americus v. Jennifer. Today's finale uses the green cue in 7-ball. Terrace City's Jennifer enjoyed a four-ball run in game 1, but she missed on the 7 at the end. Midland's Americus put it away at the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Americus had a stronger role on offense in game 2, making a five-ball run. She scuffed a shot on the 7, but the Knights' Jennifer also missed before Americus sank it for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Americus had to put in a little more effort in game 3, but she got the win to sweep Jennifer 3-0 in the series. Americus will host Queens Flames superstar Violetta in the second round. Jennifer will take only two bids forward into the second round.

I'll part with one last message today. When I first got the blue cue in 2011, it was my consolation prize for not getting a different stick that had been sold hours before I got to the store. I brought it in as a secondary option to the longstanding red cue, thus beginning the three or four year stretch of the Fire and Ice era. What quickly became clear was how good the blue cue was from the start, giving me a change of pace on my bad days. I played its original tip to the nub, even as the silver, purple and green cues eventually joined the collection. It was tough to watch a once-powerful cue slip into being fourth or even fifth best at times, though it's clear now why with the wear and tear of many competitive years eventually showing from inside to out. I'm proud to retire it now as a hero -- no breaks, only a couple of cracks and a decade of memories. Thank you for joining me on its journey, and I look forward to its replacement, the exact same model, giving me many more years of happiness. A rising tide lifts all boats, and so I wish for smooth sailing through this new change. We'll be back tomorrow.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 28

The First Round rolls on again today. The blue cue will be out of action due to scheduling, which is a welcome sight for a league expecting its replacement imminently. We begin today with...

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Chris v. Misty. A big captains' battle in 7-ball uses the green cue to open the day. Capital City's Chris was limited on offense in game 1 as Westside's Misty attacked well. Misty ended up winning by making four balls over her last two turns for the 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Misty made a five-ball run off the break to start game 2, then picked up the 7 when the Sharpshooters' Chris missed it at the top side. Misty's win sealed the series at 2-0. Misty again started hot in game 3, but Chris battled back to avoid the sweep on a three-ball run-out for the win. Misty won the series 2-1 and will meet another captain, the Royal Crowns' Kayla, in the second round. Despite the loss, Chris carries four bids into the second round.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Rainmane v. Ruby. More 7-ball is on the way with the silver cue. After a close start saw Todavía's Ruby put in a good effort, Midland's Rainmane shut her down with a four-ball run-out to win game 1 for a 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Rainmane had good command early in game 2, but she was unable to keep it up. The Stills' Ruby finished off with a three-ball run-out to take the win and tie the series at 1. Rainmane was able to bounce back in game 3, as Ruby's strong start ended with a miss on the 4. Rainmane made a four-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win that puts her in the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Roxy v. Leonardo. South Division rivals battle in Rotation with the red cue. Diamond's Leonardo picked up the pace in the middle of game 1 and cemented his lead. Southridge's Roxy was okay but fell short as Leonardo won 8-4 for the 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Roxy turned to a smash-and-grab approach in game 2, pounding shots on offense while the Gems' Leonardo struggled to get anything lined up. Roxy won 8-2 this time to tie the series at 1. Leonardo kept things close initially in game 3, but Roxy maneuvered for a four-ball run-out at the end to get the 8-4 win. Roxy won the series 2-1 and will visit Web City Spiders newcomer Wild Thing in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Leandra v. Cobalt. The green cue takes another turn in Accuracy. A close battle in game 1 saw Tysini's Leandra prevail on a 3-4 win to get a 1-0 series lead over Viewpoint Sound's Cobalt as both players stumbled late. In game 2, the score remained tied late after a sloppy start on both sides. The Meteors' Cobalt missed a shot at the bottom left that allowed the Hummingbirds' Leandra to win 2-3, which also let her seal the series at 2-0. Leandra was good again in game 3 and never trailed, while Cobalt took a late miss that cost him again. Leandra won 2-3 to get the 3-0 series sweep and a hosting position in the second round.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Shiny v. Waluigi. Players once traded for each other meet in 12-ball with the red cue. Web City's Waluigi had everything in place for a run in game 1, but he couldn't pull it off. Lighton's Shiny battled back just enough to earn the win and 1-0 series lead on a pair of shots. The Prestige's Shiny took solids on the break in game 2, but the Spiders' Waluigi fired back with a five-ball run and nearly made the winner. Waluigi settled for a two-turn win to tie the series at 1. Waluigi tried to buck conventional thinking in game 3 after making one of each and ceding the solid from the side pocket. While his positioning was good, Shiny was faster on offense in her win to take the series 2-1. Shiny will host Pronger Tridents veteran Avril in the second round.

BMW RockDome, Westside: Misty v. Fluffina. The host's second series today is in 10-ball with the purple cue. Infinity's Fluffina made an uncalled shot on the 5 in game 1, and Westside's Misty kept possession to spark a five-ball run-out for the win. Misty leads the series 1-0. The Rockers' Misty kept the momentum up with a five-ball run to open game 2. The Torpedoes' Fluffina couldn't match it on her few turns, and a miss on the 10 allowed Misty to convert the shot at the top right and clinch the series at 2-0. Misty had her chances in game 3, but she missed on the 10 at the top side and Fluffina cut it in for the win. Misty won the series 2-1 to get into the second round.

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Jane v. Jake. The silver cue cycles in for 12-ball. Stonebridge's Jane had a rough start with an early scratch, but Royal's Jake was too slow at the end. Jane pushed her way to a win on her final pair of shots, taking a 1-0 series lead. The Wolves' Jane overfilled with solids on the break in game 2. The Crowns' Jake again had some good looks, but this time Jane held a lead for much of the game. At the end, Jake tried to force a replay but only sank Jane's last ball and not his own, gifting away the series at 2-0. Jane wasn't able to do as well in game 3 after again making one of each on the break. Jake was a little better and got the win on a short run at the end to avoid the sweep. Jane moves to the second round on a 2-1 series win.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Wario v. Dusky. The green cue takes a turn in 9-ball. Atlantic's Dusky looked good on a four-ball run early in game 1, but Southridge's Wario answered on a five-ball run-out for the win. Wario holds a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 took on a much slower pace. The Pirates' Dusky had little success getting things where she wanted them, and the Defenders' Wario eventually picked up the win. Wario opened game 3 on a three-ball run and added a 5-9 bank combination at the end to sweep Dusky 3-0 in the series. Wario is set to appear in round two.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Isabella v. Leandra. The visitor gets a second series today in 7-ball with the red cue. No time was wasted in game 1. Tysini's Leandra regretted her miss on the 4, as Atlantic's Isabella smashed a four-ball run-out after that for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Isabella didn't have as much pace in game 2, and the Hummingbirds' Leandra was patient until she got a look at the 3-7 combination. Leandra converted it to the top left for the win to tie the series at 1. Leandra scratched on the break in game 3. Isabella rallied for a six-ball run, but missed the 7 that Leandra cleaned up to poach the win at the bottom left. Leandra won the series 2-1 and will visit the Boston Swifts' Gradley in the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fluffina v. Vincent. The host's second series today uses the red cue for 9-ball. A dodgy start for Infinity's Fluffina turned into a good finish when she won on a four-ball run-out. She leads Everton's Vincent 1-0 in the series. Game 2 saw almost no pace for the Torpedoes' Fluffina early on. The Eagles' Vincent also struggled, but he got the win on a three-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. Fluffina again struggled to get going in game 3, and Vincent won this one with a bank of the 9 to the top side to end his three-ball run-out. Vincent took the series 2-1 and will visit the Viewpoint Sound Meteors' Dani in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Puff II v. Puff I. A meeting between namesakes sees the red cue go again in 10-ball. Modernistic's Puff I seemed to be a little better early in game 1, but Harrison's Puff II fired back with a pair for the win. Puff II holds a slight 1-0 series lead. Things slowed down a bit in game 2, and the Specters' Puff II seemed to lose control of her offense. The Union's Puff I eventually got on track with a three-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Puff II was called for an illegal contact on a double-pot in game 3, but she got the win after Puff I missed on the 6. Puff II used a deflection to drive the 10 to the bottom left for the win and 2-1 series win that takes her to the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sarah v. Toki. The purple cue checks out with Rotation. Eastside's Toki held on for a bit, but Tysini's Sarah got most of her offense on runs of three and four balls. It was just a matter of time before Sarah made the 8 to the bottom side for the 8-4 win and 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Sarah fell behind early in game 2, but the Sharks' Toki stalled out a shot away from victory. He had plenty of chances for the win, but couldn't finish before Sarah won 8-7 in a comeback to secure the series at 2-0. In game 3, Sarah's hard-shooting style worked for a little bit. Her effectiveness waned in the late game, but she still easily won 8-3 over Toki for the 3-0 series sweep. Sarah will visit Westside Rockers veteran Chimpy in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Leandra v. Oreo. The host completes a venue doubleheader in Rotation in the silver cue's last series today. Tysini's Leandra made her biggest impact with a four-ball run in the middle of game 1. Terrace City's Oreo battled from there, but Leandra won 8-4 for the 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Leandra kept a good pace in game 2 with a four-ball run, but the Knights' Oreo retook the lead later and held on for her 8-4 win to tie the series at 1. Oreo opened game 3 on a three-ball run, but Leandra quickly made her presence felt. Oreo got on the verge of victory and still had to sweat it out until Leandra missed the 13 and Oreo made it. Oreo won 8-5 for a 2-1 series win and a trip to Apex to face Wonders captain Midnight in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Ms. Kitty v. Sunshine. The green cue is done after a 15-ball battle. Pacific's Ms. Kitty set the tone early in game 1 with a three-ball run. Royal's Sunshine was combative throughout, but Ms. Kitty was able to do enough at the end for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty continued to fire off shots with relative ease, especially early on. The Crowns' Sunshine tried to get creative late, but instead set up Ms. Kitty for an 11-15 combination that she converted to seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Sunshine found a six-ball run-out that ended with the 6 deflecting off the 8 to shove the 15 into the bottom left for a stunning win. Ms. Kitty still took the series 2-1 and will host again in the second round.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Stinky v. Molly. The day ends with the red cue in Accuracy. Freedom's Stinky had a good start to game 1, but he let it slip away later when his shooting faltered. Southern's Molly overcame an ugly start to grab a 4-5 win for the 1-0 series lead. Drastic improvements were made in game 2, with both players perfect until the last ball. At the end, the Cascades' Stinky scratched and the Monarchs' Molly finished the game with a 0-1 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Molly didn't take things very seriously in game 3, although she kept things close as Stinky only got away with a 4-5 win. Molly won the series 2-1 and moves on to the second round. 

As it stands, tomorrow will be a momentous day in UPCL and Tournament history. For the first time, a cue will be replaced/introduced in full in the middle of the competition as the old blue cue is retired and the new blue cue takes its place. It is sure to be an emotional day, especially for many older players who used it more often in the 2011 competition that predates the league.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 27

We continue playing on a fairly favorable schedule on Wednesday. The green cue will be rested today. First up...

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Oreo v. Blaze. The purple cue gets the start today in 12-ball. Terrace City's Oreo took stripes on the break and worked quickly in game 1 with only a little help from Infinity's Blaze. Oreo banked the 13 to the top side for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Torpedoes' Blaze put in a better effort in game 2 with a late three-ball run, but his last shot came up far short. The Knights' Oreo had also played well and got positioning to sink the 10 to the bottom left for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Oreo began game 3 on a three-ball run, but her misses at the bottom side proved costly. Blaze was tough enough to grab this win, limiting Oreo to a 2-1 series win to take with her in the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Ice Cream v. Shiny. The Cola Wars are renewed with the silver cue playing in 9-ball. Lighton's Shiny made a critical contact play on the 6 in the middle of game 1. She was able to bait Boston's Ice Cream into a scratch, and Shiny then made a four-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Shiny had a scratch that ended her four-ball run in game 2, but the Swifts' Ice Cream only made two shots after that before a miss on the 9. Shiny cleaned it up at the bottom left for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Ice Cream avoided the sweep with a strong finish in game 3, but Shiny's 2-1 series win sent her to the second round versus Todavía Stills captain Easter.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Kitty v. Hughbert. The blue cue checks in with 7-ball. Neither player took control in game 1, and that led to a slower pace. Midland's Kitty missed the 7 at the end, and Todavía's Hughbert nabbed it at the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Hughbert didn't up the pace at all in game 2, and the Predators' Kitty showed some skill to win on a bank of the 7 to the bottom side. The series is tied at 1. In game 3, the pace remained slow, but Kitty was able to make a pair at the end to defeat Hughbert. Kitty took the series 2-1 and will visit Royal Crowns rookie Kacey in the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Ingrid v. Leonardo. The silver cue is up for 13-ball. Southridge's Ingrid took care of the top rail early in game 1, but Diamond's Leonardo was productive even on his errors. It was a close finish, but Ingrid missed the 8 at the bottom left and Leonardo converted it for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Ingrid looked good for much of game 2, but her scratch set her back just enough to take the loss. The Gems' Leonardo stepped up late to earn the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Game 3 took quite some time to bring to a close, as errors and bad positioning slowed both players. Leonardo eventually made a three-ball run-out for the 3-0 series sweep, and he'll visit the Maplewood Lumberjacks' Whiskers in the second round.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Luigi v. Taylor M. More 13-ball awaits as the red cue enters the action. Commerce's Luigi started hot in game 1, but an illegally potted ball and a scratch slowed him down. Eastside's Taylor M. eventually adjusted her grip and found success in the win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. Frustration with positioning led the Sharks' Taylor M. to sink her last solid illegally and challenge the Tradewinds' Luigi to pick up a run. Luigi suffered another scratch instead, and Taylor M. made the 8 to the bottom left for the win that secured the series at 2-0. Luigi flipped the script for game 3, as it was him who made his last ball illegally. Taylor M. put in a better challenge for the run, but Luigi still got the win to avoid the sweep. A 2-1 series win carries Taylor M. into the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Gizmo v. Marsell. The blue cue is back for 7-ball. North Modernistic's Gizmo flubbed his shot on the 7 late in game 1, and Whitewater's Marsell cleaned it up for the win and 1-0 series lead after a close battle. The pace on offense ticked up a little more in game 2, and that worked for the Nighthawks' Gizmo when he won on a three-ball run-out after the Shores' Marsell failed to get established. Gizmo had a three-ball run off the break in game 3, but Marsell made a 3-7 bank combination to the top left for the win and 2-1 series win on his only shot. Marsell is set to be a visitor somewhere in round two in one of his five advancing bids.

Sony Center, Queens: Pauline v. Sage. The blue cue remains in action for this 10-ball set. Victoria's Sage tried to control the pace in game 1, but she missed on the 9. Queens' Pauline made the final pair and took the win despite a slight possession disadvantage. Pauline owns a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Pauline took a little more control in game 2, making five of the last six balls despite the Spurs' Sage pulling off a nifty double-kiss to get the 9 at the bottom right. Pauline's strong win clinched the series for her at 2-0. Sage got back on track with offense in game 3, but Pauline was able to chip some shots in and grabbed the win on the 10 at the top left. Pauline swept the series 3-0 and will visit Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy in the second round.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Rosalina v. Cobalt. The silver cue cycles in again with 9-ball. Victoria's Rosalina made a three-ball run off the break in game 1, but her offense slowed after that. Viewpoint Sound's Cobalt stayed involved and picked up a close win at the end for the 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Cobalt pulled off a four-ball run in game 2, but one of his shots blocked a look at the 9. This got worse for Cobalt when the Spurs' Rosalina made a three-ball run-out that saw her double-pot the 5-9 combination to the bottom left. The series is tied at 1. Rosalina wasn't able to deploy any command late in game 3, and Cobalt finished it off with a pair of shots for the win. Cobalt took the series 2-1 to reach the second round.

Kraft Forum, Royal: Brownie v. Rosalina. The visitor completes a doubleheader on the road in 15-ball with the purple cue. Both players matched each other for aggression in game 1, but Victoria's Rosalina was composed enough to take a pair at the end to beat Royal's Brownie. Rosalina holds a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw more aggression but a little less cohesion on offense. The Crowns' Brownie eventually carved up a four-ball run near the end, only for the Spurs' Rosalina to bury the final pair for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Rosalina completed the 3-0 series sweep despite another downshift in pace as Brownie scrapped to get close to a win. Rosalina will continue to play in the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Roxy v. Patches. The 400th series of the First Round is in Accuracy with the blue cue. Southridge's Roxy nearly held on through all of game 1, but two late misses allowed Oceanside's Patches to sneak away with a 1-2 win. Patches leads the series 1-0. Game 2 went down to the wire with perfection on both sides. Neither maintained it, but the Defenders' Roxy fell off pace much harder as the Waves' Patches locked in a 1-3 win to secure the series at 2-0. In game 3, Patches and Roxy went to overtime perfect, but Patches went empty on the break. Roxy took the 0-1 win to avoid the sweep, while Patches' 2-1 series win sets her up to visit the Midland Predators' Americus in the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Shaggy v. Jane. The red cue takes a turn in 7-ball. Whitewater's Shaggy had game 1 on the break as the 7 fell in the bottom side, only for the 3 to clothesline the cue ball into the bottom left. This gifted the win and 1-0 series lead to Stonebridge's Jane before she took a shot. The Shores' Shaggy was able to keep things clean in game 2, while the Wolves' Jane provided only a slight challenge. Shaggy made the last three balls over two turns for the win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, Shaggy pulled off a four-ball run-out after a close battle to start. This gave her the 2-1 series win and a trip to the second round while Jane couldn't capitalize on her early gift.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Shawn v. Goatee. The purple cue is done for the day after 12-ball. Westside's Goatee got down to her last ball in game 1, but she couldn't find a home for it. Midland's Shawn overcame a late scratch to set up his three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Shawn had more trouble with positioning in game 2, while a creative attack from the Rockers' Goatee seemed to do well for her. Goatee picked up the win this time and tied the series at 1. Goatee used the momentum in game 3, taking a quick lead on stripes. Shawn had a counterattack lined up but couldn't execute it before Goatee made her final pair for the win. Goatee is set to host Viewpoint Sound Meteors newcomer Prism in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Marissa. The red cue checks out after 15-ball. Capital City's Sprinkles had a huge attack to start game 1, but as things opened up, she lost her pace. Maplewood's Marissa won with the final pair of balls, escaping the threat with a 1-0 series lead. Roles reversed in game 2, as the Lumberjacks' Marissa enjoyed a hot start off the break. She didn't have as stable an offense, and the Sharpshooters' Sprinkles took control a little faster before eventually earning the win to tie the series at 1. Sprinkles had a terrible blunder in game 3, as her jump attempt on the 9 failed to launch and instead illegally sank the 15 to the top side. Marissa took the free win for a 2-1 series win that allows her to host Harrison Specters newcomer Puff II in an East Division showdown in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Missy v. Sprinkles. A player and venue doubleheader features two Sharpshooters battling in Rotation with the silver cue. Sprinkles tried to grab the lead early in game 1, but a massive five-ball run-out served Missy well as she earned the 8-3 win and 1-0 series lead. Missy unleashed a four-ball run off the break in game 2, and that was enough to keep her ahead all game. Sprinkles was out of sorts and Missy finished another 8-3 win to seal the series at 2-0. Missy didn't mess around in game 3 either, rallying ahead quickly and adding a pair at the end for an 8-1 win to sweep Sprinkles. Missy is set to visit Pacific Volcanoes veteran Twinkie I in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Sparkles v. Maggie. Today's finale is in Rotation with the blue cue. Golden's Sparkles started things well in game 1, but Modernistic's Maggie slowly picked up her pace. Maggie made a three-ball run for the lead late and won 8-4 to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Union's Maggie had a good start to game 2, but she couldn't sustain it at the end. The Pilots' Sparkles came alive on offense and held the lead until she was able to win 8-5, tying the series at 1. Game 3 was a battle right to the end, but Maggie was the one to emerge with an 8-5 win for the 2-1 series win. Maggie is off to the second round versus Harrison Specters rookie Bucco. 

Before signing off, an update on the blue cue. As of the last series, the interior portion of the butt end of the cue has begun to slide loose of the casing. This is the first visible change. The current cue remains playable and is expected to remain in service until the replacement arrives, tentatively scheduled for Friday.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 26

We're back and ready to go with another day of games. Leading off here...

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Rainmane v. Kayla. The red cue opens the day in 12-ball between South Division rivals. Both players wasted chances to pick up a win in game 1, but Royal's Kayla had it the worst as she stalled out with two balls left. Midland's Rainmane overcame a scratch to get the win and 1-0 series lead. After making one of each on the game 2 break, the Predators' Rainmane had a three-ball run on solids. The Crowns' Kayla took care of the left side, but Rainmane won on her fourth turn and could have had it earlier. Rainmane sealed the series at 2-0. Kayla had her best showing in game 3, but a four-ball run gave Rainmane a lead and she finished it off at the bottom side later. Rainmane swept the series 3-0 to earn the right to host another division rival, the Golden Pilots captain Valencia, in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Kelsea v. Watermelon. The red cue stays on for a 9-ball series. Both players flubbed a shot in the middle of game 1, and a frustratingly slow end saw Pearl's Watermelon scratch when she finally got an easy shot on the 9. Capital City's Kelsea emerged with an unsteady 1-0 series lead. In game 2, the Sharpshooters' Kelsea didn't step up, while the Surfers' Watermelon found much better control. Watermelon got the win this time on a five-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. Watermelon had little success in game 3, and Kelsea made eight of nine balls over three turns for the win and 2-1 series win. Kelsea is set to host North Modernistic Nighthawks veteran Gizmo in the second round.

Porsche Events Center, Zenith: Blizzard v. Vincent. The red cue goes again in 15-ball. Zenith's Blizzard had some positive play in game 1, but Everton's Vincent remained firm throughout. Vincent closed the win on a three-ball run-out to grab a 1-0 series lead. The Skywatchers' Blizzard made improvements in game 2, including converting a jump on the 5. The Eagles' Vincent tried to battle back, but Blizzard rattled off a seven-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. In game 3, both players opted to shoot hard and accurately. At the end, it was Vincent who blocked Blizzard out with a five-ball run-out for the win. Vincent took the series 2-1 and will host another Skywatcher, the veteran Paps, in the second round.

Kraft Forum, Royal: Brownie v. Missy. Back in 9-ball, the purple cue plays its lone series of the day. Royal's Brownie had a decent start to game 1, but Capital City's Missy unleashed a six-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead just two turns in. The Crowns' Brownie tried to keep the pace high in game 2, but a scratch after kicked contact on the 2 doomed her. The Sharpshooters' Missy showed no mercy in making the 2-9 combination to the bottom left from ball-in-hand, clinching the series at 2-0 in the process. Brownie tried to make a run for game 3 at the end, but again came up short with a scratch. Missy made the final pair and swept the series 3-0 to move into the second round, where she'll visit Central Warriors star Noelle.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Stripes v. Gabby. The silver cue takes a turn in 10-ball. Southridge's Stripes had a bad break in game 1, and she faltered on her second turn. Southern's Gabby shocked the events center with a 2-10 bank combination to the top side for a win and 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Gabby didn't have anything special early in game 2, but her shot on the 2 set up a 3-10 combination she converted to the bottom left. This stunned the Defenders' Stripes again as Gabby secured the series at 2-0. Gabby took game 3 early as well, deflecting off the 3 to sink the 7 at the top left while the 10 deflected to the bottom left on a double-pot. Gabby swept Stripes 3-0 and will move on to visit Viewpoint Sound Meteors star Princess in the second round.

Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Noelle v. Isabella. East Division rivals are set to compete in 13-ball with the green cue. Central's Noelle had decent positioning in game 1, but she couldn't get her last ball around the defense of Atlantic's Isabella. With three balls over the last two turns, Isabella took the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Isabella made the wrong choice in a difficult position in game 2, sending the 8 down at the bottom left prematurely. This gifted the win to the Warriors' Noelle, which also tied the series at 1. In game 3, Noelle seemed to have everything under control after Isabella scratched. That quickly changed when Isabella pieced together a five-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win to get into the second round.

Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Noelle v. Bianca. The host completes her home doubleheader versus a pair of sisters in 7-ball with the green cue. Southridge's Bianca was a little jumpy at times in game 1, sending the 7 off course at the bottom right. Central's Noelle snagged a close win for the 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Bianca again had decent offense in game 2, but her miss on the 7 allowed the Warriors' Noelle to sink it at the bottom side for the win. Noelle clinched the series at 2-0. In game 3, Bianca had her closest look at the 7 and still missed late. Noelle mopped up once more for the 3-0 series sweep and hosting rights in the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Stephanie v. Leonardo. The green cue stays in action in 10-ball. Diamond's Leonardo had an alright game 1, but he scratched as he made the 10. Swordpoint's Stephanie cleaned it up for the win, taking a shaky 1-0 series lead after a slow battle. The Blades' Stephanie had a good look with a three-ball run late in game 2, but she missed on both the 9 and 10 before the Gems' Leonardo finished off the win. This tied the series at 1. Game 3 introduced a bit of chaos, as Leonardo had a couple of instances where he made balls in uncalled pockets. Stephanie deferred possession each time until she got a look on the 10 she liked, and she made it at the bottom left for the win and 2-1 series win. Stephanie is set to host Queens Flames superstar Violetta in the second round.

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Lindsay v. Megan. The red cue returns in 7-ball. Oceanside's Megan showed little patience in game 1, burying a quick five-ball run-out after Stonebridge's Lindsay only had a decent start. Megan holds a 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Megan was less commanding in game 2, leading to a slow start. The Wolves' Lindsay eventually filled the void with a pair of three-ball runs to get the win, tying the series at 1. In game 3, both players put up three-ball runs. At the end, Megan missed the 7 and Lindsay made it on her second attempt to claim the win and 2-1 series win. Lindsay is set to play in the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Greg v. Charli. The red cue is ready to exit after Rotation. Tysini's Charli jumped out to the early lead in game 1. Archtown's Greg didn't give chase very well, and Charli was able to earn an 8-3 win for the 1-0 series lead. In game 2, the Arrows' Greg flipped the script despite the Hummingbirds' Charli taking an early lead. Greg pulled ahead quickly and didn't look back in his 8-3 win to tie the series at 1. Greg held a lead for the bulk of game 3, but he couldn't finish it off. Charli won with a three-ball run-out for the 8-7 result and 2-1 series win. Charli will move on to visit Commerce Tradewinds star Solaris in the second round.

Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Pounce v. Debby. The silver cue cycles in for an 8-ball series. Southern's Pounce used a five-ball run in the middle of game 1 to set up his finish. Diamond's Debby wasn't able to respond to it before Pounce sank the 8 to the top left for the win and 1-0 lead in the series. The Monarchs' Pounce had a nice six-ball run in game 2, but he wasn't able to complete the effort. The Gems' Debby answered him and took the 8 on her second attempt for the win, tying the series at 1. Debby had some early offense in game 3, but it wasn't too much trouble for Pounce, who replied with a five-ball run-out for the win. Pounce took the series 2-1 and will move on to the second round. This was Pounce's 100th unique opponent.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sarah v. Max. Accuracy is up next, also using the silver cue. Golden's Max did well to keep things close in game 1, but Tysini's Sarah shut him down at the end to preserve her 2-3 lead as a win. Sarah leads the series 1-0. The Hummingbirds' Sarah gained the last shot advantage with a ball on the break in game 2. The Pilots' Max never trailed by more than a shot, but he ran out of time to even things up, and Sarah won 2-3 again to clinch the series at 2-0. Sarah faded in game 3, taking things easy with nothing to decide. Max wasn't great in a 4-6 win this time, but he avoided the sweep as Sarah took a 2-1 series win into the second round.

Google Hall, Modernistic: Quincy v. Shelley. The green cue checks out after Rotation. Infinity's Shelley found success in game 1 with a couple of surges. She had a four-ball run early on and a three-ball run-out to end an 8-5 win after Modernistic's Quincy tried to catch up. Shelley leads the series 1-0. The Torpedoes' Shelley tried to grind her way to another result in game 2, but the Union's Quincy was just good enough to take an 8-7 win to tie the series at 1. Shelley had a four-ball run early in game 3 and then got on the verge of victory. Quincy made a huge push to catch up, but he fouled while shooting at the 15, and Shelley finished off the 8-7 win for a 2-1 series win. Shelley will host Terrace City Knights veteran Jennifer in the second round.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Nikolai v. Maren. The silver cue makes its exit with 15-ball. Freedom's Nikolai had most of the earlier offense in game 1, but a contested finish turned to Apex's Maren when she sank a four-ball run-out. Maren holds a 1-0 series lead. The Wonders' Maren stretched her offense more throughout game 2, playing evenly with the Cascades' Nikolai. At the end, Maren made the final pair for the win to seal the series at 2-0. In game 3, Maren stood her ground very well despite Nikolai trying everything to get on the board. At the end, Maren's four-ball run-out sent her to a 3-0 series sweep and a trip to Whitewater to face Shores captain Shaggy in the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Rudolph v. Lionel. The blue cue's only series today is in 13-ball. North Modernistic's Lionel came up a little short on positioning in game 1, while Eastside's Rudolph had to put in some late work to pick up the win. Rudolph owns a 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Rudolph fell behind badly in game 2, as the Nighthawks' Lionel ripped a five-ball run early. Rudolph scratched on his second turn, but he still had enough later in the game to win on a four-ball run-out as Lionel couldn't get his last ball down. Rudolph clinched the series at 2-0 with the clutch comeback. Lionel again had some good looks in game 3, but Rudolph sank a three-ball run-out for the win and 3-0 series sweep. Rudolph is on to the second round. 

Some updates on the scheduling going forward: July 17 is expected to either be a day off or split over to the 18th to allow for some rest at the three-quarters mark of the round. July 24 could be on a delayed schedule, and could also be split with the 25th if that option isn't taken the previous weekend. Other than that, we should be just about every day until the end of the round.

Tournament XI - First Round Day 25

The scheduled break is over, the equipment is clean and we're ready to take on the second half of the First Round. Leading off today...

Volkswagen BeetleDome, Viewpoint Sound: Dani v. Snuggle. The green cue will start the festivities today in Rotation. Viewpoint Sound's Dani had a couple of positive moments in game 1, but Harrison's Snuggle was a bit more consistent to earn the 8-5 win and 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Snuggle went with force to take an early lead in game 2. The Meteors' Dani tied the game on a late three-ball run, but she fell short on the 10, and Snuggle made it for an 8-7 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Snuggle wasn't able to sustain his level of play in game 3, and Dani surged to an 8-4 win for her lone victory in the series. Snuggle advanced on a 2-1 series win to visit Atlantic Pirates sophomore Buddy in the second round.

Sony Center, Queens: Crystal v. Blair. More Rotation features the blue cue, which is set to be replaced imminently with an identical model. Queens' Crystal had a good stretch with a five-ball run in game 1, but it was an easy cruise to victory as Apex's Blair mustered no offense. Crystal won 8-0 in the game for the 1-0 series lead. The Wonders' Blair threw a counter-punch in game 2, smashing through the rack and winning 8-1 on a 5-7 bank to the top side after the Flames' Crystal stalled out early. Crystal had a good start in game 3, but Blair caught up on his first attack. Crystal then fended him off late in an 8-5 win to take a 2-1 series win to the second round, where she'll host again versus Southern Monarchs captain Pounce.

Intel Center, Diamond: Salmo v. Debby. Gems teammates battle in 15-ball, also using the blue cue. In game 1, Salmo had a good start, but his play towards the end was a little shaky. Debby capitalized on it with a 12-15 combination to the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. Debby had most of the offense early in game 2, but she lost her pace in the middle. Salmo emerged with momentum to close out a five-ball run-out at the end, giving him a win to tie the series at 1. Salmo had some good offense, but he was too inconsistent at the end of game 3. Debby scratched to end a five-ball run, but still picked up enough offense for the win and 2-1 series win that sends her to the second round in a visiting role.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Yekaterina v. Sprinkles. West Division rivals clash in 10-ball with the silver cue. Neither player showed much control in game 1, but Capital City's Sprinkles will regret her scratch after making the 9. Victoria's Yekaterina took the 10 to the bottom left on a free shot for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Yekaterina found a five-ball run off the break in game 2. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles tried to keep up, but Yekaterina made the final pair for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Yekaterina finished off the sweep in game 3, unleashing a four-ball run-out this time to defeat Sprinkles. Yekaterina is set to visit Golden Pilots veteran Strut in the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Cheddar v. Lorde. The green cue cycles in for 7-ball. Southern's Lorde had her chances in game 1 but couldn't finish it off. North Modernistic's Cheddar won with a pair of shots for a 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Cheddar smashed a three-ball run off the break in game 2, but she faltered later. The Monarchs' Lorde won with two pairs of shots to close it out, tying the series at 1. In game 3, Lorde picked up her pace at the end to make a pair of shots after Cheddar scratched while making the 5. Lorde's 2-1 series win puts her in the second round, where she'll visit Royal Crowns veteran Jake.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Shiny v. Snowball. The green cue stays on in 15-ball. Lighton's Shiny bizarrely made contact with the cue on her practice strokes ahead of the game 1 break. The ball hit the rack, leading to a slow-paced battle before Westside's Snowball burst to life with a five-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Snowball wasn't able to take full control in game 2, and a late scratch on the 12 hurt her. The Prestige's Shiny bounced back late for a three-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Shiny's offense wasn't where it needed to be in game 3, as she missed a few shots including a late look on the 15. Snowball sniped the winning shot to the bottom right for the win and 2-1 series win that sends her to visit Viewpoint Sound Meteors star Princess in the second round.

Google Hall, Modernistic: Quincy v. Melissa. In the North Division, the red cue enters for 9-ball. After a slow start on both sides in game 1, Modernistic's Quincy picked up the pace versus his old teammate. He made a five-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead over Terrace City's Melissa. The Union's Quincy couldn't do any better in game 2, dropping off the pace badly with multiple errors. At the end, the Knights' Melissa buried a 7-9 combination to the top left for the win to tie the series at 1. Quincy looked to be in trouble when Melissa surged to a four-ball run near the end of game 3, but she missed the 9. Quincy sent it to the bottom side for the win and 2-1 series win, and he'll host Whitewater Shores star Katharine in the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Autumn v. Paps. The silver cue checks out after this 10-ball series between South Division rivals. Diamond's Autumn was a little too shaky on offense as Zenith's Paps picked up a three-ball run-out for the win in game 1. Paps leads the series 1-0. Another slow start put the Gems' Autumn in a dangerous position, but the Skywatchers' Paps wasn't as sharp in game 2. Autumn had the time to piece together a four-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Autumn made no mistake in game 3, making the 4 on the break and following with a 1-0 combination to the bottom left on her second shot for the 2-1 series win over Paps. Autumn will play in the second round, while Paps' first round is done with three bids moving on after playing his 100th unique opponent.

BMW RockDome, Westside: Chimpy v. Megan. The purple cue takes a turn in Rotation between North Division rivals. Oceanside's Megan was a little slow to get going in game 1, and that cost her as Westside's Chimpy was able to maintain a lead. Chimpy won 8-5 and took a 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Megan found a better start in game 2, but it didn't last. The Rockers' Chimpy tied the game with a three-ball run, then added four more balls over his last two turns for another 8-5 win to secure the series at 2-0. In game 3, Chimpy had to play from behind a bit more. Megan held the lead until the end when Chimpy's three-ball run-out gave him an 8-6 win to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Chimpy will host again in the second round as one of his five advancing bids.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Anna v. Valencia. The red cue is ready to play 12-ball. Terrace City's Anna was hot from the break in game 1, and she made a three-ball run-out for the win. Golden's Valencia had a chance to challenge it but didn't make a shot, as Anna took the series lead at 1-0. A pair of scratches completely silenced the offense for the Knights' Anna, who had to watch as the Pilots' Valencia took a turn to dominate in game 2. Valencia's strong play earned her a win to tie the series at 1. Valencia made one of each on the break in game 3, and that sparked a race from left to right. Valencia maintained the pace well and Anna couldn't catch up in time. Valencia won the series 2-1 and moves on to the second round. This was Valencia's 100th unique opponent.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Whiskers v. Smudge. Former teammates battle in 8-ball with the red cue in its last series today. Infinity's Smudge had a six-ball run in game 1, but two scratches set her back just enough for Maplewood's Whiskers to claim the win and 1-0 series lead. The Torpedoes' Smudge held the lead for much of game 2, but she let it slip away when she sank a ball for the Lumberjacks' Whiskers. That sparked Whiskers to make a pair of shots at the end for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Whiskers struggled a little bit in game 3, but Smudge was almost fully disengaged. Whiskers finished the 3-0 series sweep with a three-ball run-out to claim a hosting position in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Hughbert v. Citrus. The West Division takes focus in Rotation with the blue cue. A relentless attack and no success from Lighton's Citrus allowed Todavía's Hughbert to take game 1 in an 8-0 shutout for the 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Hughbert appeared to have the initial advantage in game 2, but the Prestige's Citrus bounced back well. Citrus made a five-ball run-out to claim an 8-4 win that tied the series at 1. An early lead did little good for Hughbert, who nearly butchered things badly at the end of game 3. Citrus was too nervy to capitalize on his mistakes, and Hughbert won 8-5 to take the series 2-1 on his way to the second round.

BMW RockDome, Westside: Snowball v. Brownie. A mother faces her daughter in 13-ball with the green cue. Westside's Snowball had the lead for much of game 1, but Royal's Brownie stayed active and made four balls over her last two turns for the win to gain a 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Snowball did a lot of things pretty well in game 2, but she wasn't able to corral her last ball fast enough. When she did, a miss on the 8 bought the Crowns' Brownie enough time to sink a pair at the end for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Snowball had all the positioning she needed in game 3 and still managed to throw it away. Brownie stormed back on a five-ball run-out for the win to sweep the series 3-0, and that allows her to host the Archtown Arrows' Greg in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Bucco v. Slinks. The blue cue checks out after a Rotation series. Harrison's Bucco got nothing going in game 1, while Tysini's Slinks eventually carved out good offense. Slinks won 8-0 in the game to take a 1-0 lead in the series. The Hummingbirds' Slinks was unable to produce a repeat effort in game 2. She struggled after a decent start, while the Specters' Bucco slowly built up to an 8-5 win. The series is now tied at 1. Bucco started out behind in game 3, but Slinks didn't hold onto the lead very well. Bucco surged late on a four-ball run and added a later pair for the 8-5 win and 2-1 series win that gets him into the second round.

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Hershey v. Frosty. The purple cue ends the day in 9-ball. Neither player did well once the 9 got near the top side, which led to Stonebridge's Hershey taking a missed contact foul. Freedom's Frosty ended the game with a 2-9 combination for the 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Frosty had a few good moments in game 2, but this time the Wolves' Hershey stepped up to sink a pair at the end for the win. The series is tied at 1. Hershey didn't look so good late in game 3 as Frosty pushed a four-ball run, but Frosty scratched and Hershey took the 9 for free to get a 2-1 series win. Hershey will host Lighton Prestige veteran Citrus in the second round. 

More or less, Tournament play should be daily going forward barring an emergency situation.