Tournament XII Qualifiers - Day 7

We'll play 40 or 50 games in today's qualifying session, which has a small chance of starting 10-ball and the introduction of more 9-ball. First up...

Freedom Cascades newcomer Sprinkles plays 7-ball with the green cue. Sprinkles was good in her team debut, taking 8 shots and no errors. Golden Pilots newcomer Toki is up next, playing 7-ball with the purple cue. Toki had a good performance getting a clutch double-pot late to end on 7 shots with no errors. Everton Eagles veteran Panda goes third today, using the blue cue for 8-ball. Panda pulled off some lucky shots and finished the rack in 19 shots. Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Whiskers tries her hand in 8-ball with the green cue. Whiskers had some trouble with finishing her game, ending at 22 shots and no errors. Southridge Defenders newcomer Sydney C. shoots 9-ball with the blue cue to close the group. Sydney C. took one error for missed contact, but finished with an 8-9 combination to the bottom right for 13 shots. 

The second group opens with Pacific Volcanoes captain Ms. Kitty shooting 8-ball with the blue cue. Ms. Kitty mastered the bank shot in her outing, taking one error in 22 shots. Royal Crowns star Sunshine plays 8-ball with the purple cue. Sunshine missed too many plays early, taking 27 shots and no errors in the outing. Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy is set to play 8-ball with the silver cue. Shaggy notched 22 shots and no errors, showing decent command. Atlantic Pirates newcomer Bandit goes ninth today, activating the red cue in 8-ball. Bandit unleashed 17 shots and no errors in a crisp showing. Golden Pilots star Dusty ends the set with the blue cue in 9-ball. Dusty couldn't get the play she wanted, taking 14 shots and no errors to end it. 

After the break, Apex Wonders newcomer Klaus plays 9-ball with the silver cue. Klaus hounds the 9 after a good break, but needs 8 shots with no errors before kicking in a 1-9 combination to the top right. Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Marissa is in for 8-ball with the silver cue. Marissa was sharp early, then rattled too many out for 25 shots and no errors in the end. Commerce Tradewinds rookie Carly P. is set to play 7-ball with the green cue in her career debut. Carly P. ended up at 12 shots with no errors, unable to pull off a couple of tough plays. Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M. goes 14th today, playing 9-ball with the red cue. Taylor M. gave it everything she had to avoid errors, and a double-pot of the 6 to the top side and 9 to the top right ended her game at 15 shots. Pronger Tridents star Spot rounds out the group in 7-ball with the silver cue. Spot took a far-out angle and got the 7 to go down at the top side on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. 

The fourth group starts with Stonebridge Wolves newcomer Sierra playing 9-ball with the green cue. Sierra made a 5-9 combination to the bottom right after a tough stretch, ending on 9 shots with no errors. Royal Crowns captain Kayla is next up, using the silver cue in 7-ball. Kayla found a groove to end on 10 shots with no errors. Zenith Skywatchers strongman Lionel keeps the silver cue active for 8-ball. Lionel had good plays, but his long-range shooting was poor. He ended on 27 shots and no errors. More 8-ball is next, with Southridge Defenders veteran Roxy using the green cue. Roxy showed strong command and strategy, clearing the table in 20 shots with no errors. Terrace City Knights captain Kiwi is 20th to shoot today, playing 8-ball with the blue cue. Kiwi did fine until an illegal contact error in the middle of her game. She ended up at 24 shots with the lone error. 

Group five kicks off with Victoria Spurs veteran Rosalina using the green cue in 8-ball. Rosalina had a couple of lucky bounces, but she converted well in 18 shots with no errors. Todavía Stills newcomer Juno draws in 22nd today to play 8-ball with the red cue. Juno took one error for a scratch but still finished in 18 shots. Everton Eagles star Puff III is up next with the silver cue in 9-ball. Puff III made a double-pot of the 5 to the bottom right and the 9 to the top left for 7 shots and no errors. Boston Swifts newcomer Dreamy also uses the silver cue in 9-ball. Dreamy did even better, sinking the 2 and 9 to the top right on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. Another 9-ball game wraps up the group, with the Westside Rockers mainstay Goatee playing with the green cue. Goatee couldn't settle her positioning late, taking one error and 18 shots to finish. 

The sixth set leads off with Eastside Sharks rising star Maison using the green cue for 9-ball. Maison pushed hard early, then eased up to end at 15 shots and no errors. Another 9-ball game has the Freedom Cascades' Andrew up with the silver cue. Bad positioning forced Andrew into three errors among his 18 shots. Stonebridge Wolves veteran Jane also gets a look in 9-ball with the silver cue. Jane took two errors in 15 shots, though her hot start should have earned her a far better result. Swordpoint Blades rookie Anton draws in for 9-ball with the red cue. Anton was able to work through mid-game troubles, ending on 14 shots with one error. At the back of the group, Midland Predators captain Rainmane plays 8-ball with the green cue. Rainmane couldn't get any control at the end of her game, taking two errors and 30 shots to finish. 

Going 31st today, Phoenix Firebirds veteran Pauline uses the purple cue in 8-ball. Pauline cleared the table in 20 shots and no errors in a crisp showing. Commerce Tradewinds sophomore Blake brings up the red cue for 9-ball. Blake kept things loose early, taking two errors, then struggling to end on 15 shots. Viewpoint Sound Meteors veteran Cobalt is next, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Cobalt attacked well and finished with just 15 shots and no errors. Terrace City Knights newcomer Lexi is up for 8-ball with the green cue. Lexi had a great start, but again joined the growing ranks of players who had to slow down late. She had one error in 23 shots. Rounding out the batch, Lighton Prestige captain Acorn plays 8-ball with the red cue. Acorn overcame an early error to end on 20 shots, though he wasted time with a late rattler. 

The eighth group begins as Boston Swifts veteran Ice Cream plays 8-ball with the green cue. Ice Cream suffered a foot injury late in the qualifier, but gutted it out for 21 shots and no errors. Infinity Torpedoes veteran Fuchsia goes 37th today, using the blue cue in 7-ball. Fuchsia got tricky, missing a 1-7 combination on her first try but sinking both on a double-pot for 2 shots and no errors. Whitewater Shores star Katharine is next, using the blue cue in 8-ball. Katharine was thrown off by a bad shot at a critical time, slipping to 22 shots with no errors. Atlantic Pirates captain Delila is next up in 8-ball, playing with the purple cue. Delila scratched on the break, but made up for it with pace to end at 20 shots. The group ends with Eastside Sharks newcomer Gal shooting 7-ball with the purple cue. Gal was a little chaotic, but she got the game done in 9 shots with no errors. 

Group nine gets going with Web City Spiders veteran Kodiak shooting 9-ball with the silver cue. Kodiak sank three balls on the break, and he played strong but cautious to end in 9 shots with no errors. Ingrid is set for her Royal Crowns debut with the red cue in 7-ball. Ingrid didn't get the right combinations to hit, but she ended on 10 shots with the 4-7 falling to the top left. She took no errors. Victoria Spurs star Yekaterina steps in for 9-ball with the silver cue next. Yekaterina took an early error, but bounced back to double-pot the 7 to the top right and the 9 to the bottom side for 12 shots. Tysini Hummingbirds veteran Slinks is the 44th player of the day, playing 8-ball with the silver cue. Slinks had one error on a scratch, but she held on for 22 shots. Closing the batch, Queens Flames newcomer Cleo shoots 8-ball with the purple cue. Cleo took three errors for sinking the 8 early, and still managed to finish on 22 shots. 

The final group is headed by Stonebridge Wolves sophomore Lindsay, who shoots 8-ball with the red cue. Lindsay took a pair of errors before finishing on a solid 21 shots. Atlantic Pirates newcomer Waluigi takes a turn in 9-ball with the purple cue. Waluigi bungled an early chance to surge, ending up with one error in 13 shots. The 48th game of the day belongs to the Southridge Defenders' Caitlin, who also uses the purple cue in 9-ball. Caitlin took one error early, but channeled the frustration into 14 shots. Rookie Alliance member Alanna debuts in 7-ball with the red cue. Alanna made the 7 to the bottom side on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. Stinky ends the day with his Midland Predators debut, using the blue cue in 7-ball. Stinky cruised through the finish for 7 shots and no errors. 

That's all for the first week of qualifying, which has improved as its gone along. There will be 40 games tomorrow.

Tournament XII Qualifiers - Day 6

We're back for another 40-game day. There's more likely to be 9-ball today, though 8-ball remains the dominant style for now. First up...

Infinity Torpedoes star Fluffina shoots 8-ball with the green cue. Fluffina rattled off 18 shots and no errors in a good opening game. The Rookie Alliance's Tenille A. is next up, making her career debut in 7-ball with the blue cue. Tenille A. held on for 9 shots and no errors after making a pair on the break. Phoenix Firebirds star Twinkie III goes third today, playing 8-ball with the purple cue. Twinkie III took one error for illegal contact, but she still stormed away with 16 shots. Todavía Stills veteran Pedey activates the silver cue for 9-ball. Pedey made the 9 on the break but also scratched for his lone error. He still finished quickly with nine shots. Pacific Volcanoes star Smokey will also get a look in 9-ball with the purple cue. Smokey needed 15 shots and no errors to clear the table, barely maintaining control in the game.

The second group is underway with Capital City Sharpshooters mainstay Missy playing 8-ball with the purple cue. Missy played steady and finished in 22 shots with no errors. Queens Flames captain Crystal also takes a turn in 8-ball, using the green cue. Crystal was pretty sharp on offense, though she took one error that bumped her up to 21 shots. Golden Pilots veteran Sparkles is up for 8-ball with the silver cue. Sparkles made one of each suit on the break and finished with 18 shots and no errors. Royal Crowns stalwart Jake is ready to go in 8-ball with the red cue in today's ninth game. Jake had a lackluster break but still finished in 21 shots with no errors. Westside Rockers star Snowball closes the group with the silver cue in 9-ball. Snowball had to sacrifice on a couple of plays, ending up at 14 shots with no errors. 

Group three starts with Midland Predators newcomer Stephanie playing 8-ball with the blue cue. Stephanie battled through some tough spots, finishing on 18 shots and no errors. Swordpoint Blades veteran Mams uses the red cue in 7-ball for her season debut. Mams didn't do so well, taking two errors in 12 shots in a rough start. Eastside Sharks newcomer Twinkie I draws in for 9-ball with the silver cue. Twinkie I had a major mistake with a stick foul early, and she needed 17 shots with two errors to finish it. Commerce Tradewinds captain Taylor S. draws in for 8-ball with the purple cue. Taylor S. made a mess midway through, taking two errors and stumbling to 28 shots. Westside Rockers sophomore Carly J. goes 15th today, using the green cue in 7-ball. Carly J. held her own despite an early error, ending with only 9 shots. 

The fourth batch opens with Apex Wonders sophomore Maren shooting 7-ball with the silver cue. Maren made two on the break and finished in 5 shots with no errors. Central Warriors newcomer Isabella goes 17th today, using the green cue in 9-ball. Isabella played smart, using positioning to her advantage to end on 11 shots with a 7-9 combination to the top right. She took no errors. Omari is set for his Pronger Tridents debut with the silver cue in 7-ball. Omari made the best of a tough game, taking 10 shots and no errors. Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Summer also uses the silver cue for 7-ball. Summer also needed 10 shots to finish, though she had one late error. Harrison Specters veteran Snuggle takes a turn in 7-ball with the blue cue to end the group. Snuggle also finished with 10 shots, and he took an early error for a scratch. 

The fifth group kicks off as Pacific Volcanoes newcomer Gizmo uses the purple cue in 8-ball. Gizmo was merciless with 13 shots and no errors to clear the table. Southern Monarchs captain Pounce also uses the purple cue for 8-ball. Pounce put in a good effort, keeping things clean with no errors in 17 shots. More 8-ball follows with Infinity Torpedoes veteran Shelley playing with the silver cue. Shelley had some shaky play around the table, but her shooting was solid for 22 shots and no errors. Tysini Hummingbirds star Sugar is up 24th today, using the green cue in 7-ball. Sugar took an early error with missed contact and faltered to 13 shots in the game. Rounding out the group, Todavía Stills captain Easter is set to play 8-ball with the purple cue. Easter rattled off 19 shots with one error in a good outing. 

Oceanside Waves newcomer Chicky Phil uses the silver cue in 8-ball to front the sixth group. Chicky Phil took one error on illegal contact, but he closed with 20 shots. Boston Swifts captain Sweetheart is called for 8-ball with the blue cue. Sweetheart had one error for a scratch, and that slowed her down at the end. She finished in 24 shots. North Modernistic Nighthawks captain Peach gets the 28th game today, using the silver cue in 7-ball. Peach took two errors in an ugly game, and she was lucky to finish in 15 shots. Central Warriors captain Twilight follows that with the blue cue in 7-ball. Twilight took one error on a scratch, but rebounded to finish on 10 shots. Graycliff Aces rookie Adele ends the group with the silver cue in 8-ball. Adele did alright with one error and 21 shots in this game. 

The seventh set gets going as Queens Flames star Briana uses the silver cue in 8-ball. Briana took one error on a scratch, but she finished in 19 shots. Southridge Defenders newcomer Avril is set for her season debut in 7-ball with the green cue. Avril didn't have a great turn, taking one error in 14 shots in a difficult outing. Freedom Cascades veteran Frosty is up next with the purple cue in 8-ball. Frosty just avoided an error in this game, but she still needed 23 shots to finish. Zenith Skywatchers captain Blizzard draws in for 7-ball with the blue cue. Blizzard scratched on the break for her lone error but still ended with 7 shots. North Modernistic Nighthawks newcomer Mr. Snowman is set to play in 7-ball with the green cue to wrap up the group. Mr. Snowman made the 4-7 combination to the bottom right for 5 shots and no errors. 

The final group begins with Lighton Prestige newcomer Gradley playing 8-ball with the red cue. Gradley was good at first, but two errors and 25 shots were his finishing totals. Going 37th today, Apex Wonders captain Midnight shoots 8-ball with the blue cue. Midnight had a better break, but she also took two errors and fell to 25 shots. Bear is ready for his Modernistic Union debut, playing 7-ball with the blue cue. Bear had good straight-line shooting, but his creative played lacked, giving him one error in 11 shots. Queens Flames veteran Mario is up with the purple cue in 7-ball. Mario stumbled in the middle but finished on 10 shots and no errors. Modernistic Union newcomer Stripes ends the day in 8-ball with the purple cue. Stripes was able to close it out in 22 shots despite two errors near the end. 

Tomorrow has 50-game potential, though it's not guaranteed.

Tournament XII Qualifiers - Day 5

Another 40-game day is scheduled. There will be the potential of some 9-ball, though the bulk of the games are likely to be in 8-ball. The action starts with...

Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M. shooting 8-ball with the blue cue. Taylor M. kept it simple, taking 21 shots and no errors. Boston Swifts newcomer Dreamy also plays 8-ball today, using the red cue. Dreamy was confident throughout the appearance, taking 18 shots with no errors. Enterprise Independents rookie Alina is next up, using the blue cue in 7-ball. Alina had a tough start to her career, needing 12 shots with no errors. Westside Rockers veteran Goatee steps in with the purple cue for 8-ball. Goatee didn't have a great break, but she still cleared the table in 20 shots with no errors. Going fifth today, Southridge Defenders strongman Wario plays 7-ball with the silver cue. Wario made a pair on the break, allowing him to cruise to 8 shots with no errors. 

The second group begins with Whitewater Shores star Katharine playing 7-ball with the purple cue. Katharine had to fight for it, but she got a 4-7 combination to go down at the bottom right for 9 shots and no errors. Southridge Defenders newcomer Sydney C. keeps the purple cue up for 8-ball. Sydney C. battled some positioning trouble to end on 19 shots with no errors. The eighth player today is Buddy, who makes his Swordpoint Blades debut in 7-ball with the green cue. Buddy took two errors and ended up at 12 shots after some bad luck. Southern Monarchs veteran Dominic is next with the silver cue in 8-ball. Dominic took one error on illegal contact late, but he still finished at a solid 21 shots. Swordpoint Blades veteran Stealth closes the group with the red cue in 7-ball. Stealth had an early error on a failed jump shot, and he ended up with 10 shots in the game. 

Group three kicks off with Freedom Cascades newcomer Kitty playing 8-ball with the green cue. Kitty struggled a bit with positioning, taking 25 shots and one error in this outing. Rookie Alliance member Olivia is set to play 8-ball with the blue cue. Olivia could have had a disaster, but she was able to turn a bad break into just 16 shots with no errors. Zenith Skywatchers newcomer Brownie is up to for 7-ball with the red cue. Brownie held her own with one error and 10 shots in a tough game. Royal Crowns newcomer Dani goes 14th today, shooting 8-ball with the purple cue. Dani had one error in 22 shots for a solid showing. Web City Spiders veteran Kodiak ends the group with the silver cue in 8-ball. Kodiak finished it off with 19 shots and no errors. 

Eastside Sharks star Maison is ready to play 8-ball with the purple cue. Maison had the infamy of being the first player to illegally sink the 8 this year, taking 28 shots and five errors at the game's end. Oceanside Waves star Patches keeps the purple cue up for 8-ball. Patches chopped too many shots wide of the pockets, ending with 26 shots and no errors. Stonebridge Wolves newcomer Sierra steps up with the red cue for 8-ball. Sierra wasted no time in taking 16 shots with no errors. Tysini Hummingbirds veteran Slinks follows that with the silver cue in 7-ball. Slinks struggled with converting plays, ending at 14 shots with one error. Modernistic Union veteran Quincy is set to end the batch with the green cue in 7-ball. Quincy took one error for missed contact and closed with a decent 9 shots. 

The fifth group starts with Oceanside Waves captain Celestia playing 8-ball with the silver cue. Celestia got good bounces early and kept it solid for 18 shots and no errors. North Modernistic Nighthawks rookie Cinder goes 22nd today, playing 7-ball with the red cue. Cinder struggled early, then double-potted the 3 to the bottom right and the 7 to the bottom side for 8 shots and no errors. Golden Pilots captain Valencia will welcome 9-ball into action with the blue cue. Valencia was challenged again, taking 16 shots and two errors to finish it off. Terrace City Knights sophomore Anna keeps the blue cue up for 8-ball. Anna took three errors for an illegally potted 8, and she finished on 23 shots. Diamond Gems star Debby finishes the set with the silver cue in 7-ball. Debby made a bang with 0 shots and zero errors as the 7 found the bottom right on the break. 

Set six opens with Pearl Surfers newcomer Shawn shooting 7-ball with the silver cue. Shawn didn't do so well, needing 16 shots with two errors to finish the effort. Zenith Skywatchers veteran Bells is next, using the red cue in 8-ball. Bells barrelled through the early part of the rack and ended on 16 shots with no errors. Stonebridge Wolves veteran Jane brings back the silver cue for 8-ball. Jane cruised in her outing, needing just 17 shots with no errors to finish. Enterprise Independents rookie Misha will also take a turn with the silver cue in 8-ball in today's 29th game. Misha pushed through a mildly difficult rack for 20 shots and no errors. Wrapping up the group, Midland Predators veteran Americus makes her season debut in 7-ball with the silver cue. Americus made a pair on the break and launched a 1-7 combination to the bottom left for 1 shot and no errors. 

The seventh group gets going with Everton Eagles captain Goldy playing 8-ball with the blue cue. A little struggle with finishing left Goldy at 21 shots and no errors. Swordpoint Blades newcomer Megan is also set to use the blue cue in 8-ball. Megan sent the cue ball off the table on a successful jump shot, her lone error in 23 shots. Golden Pilots star Dusty is up 33rd today, shooting 8-ball with the purple cue. Dusty didn't make mistakes in this one, taking 18 shots and no errors in a nice game. Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Whiskers uses the red cue in 7-ball next. Whiskers scratched on the break for her lone error, then finished in a reasonable 10 shots. Everton Eagles mainstay Puff III rounds out the group with the purple cue in 8-ball. Puff III didn't have any luck, taking one error in 29 shots. 

The final group is fronted by Infinity Torpedoes star Blaze, who shoots 8-ball with the red cue. While sharp early on, Blaze faltered late, ending with 22 shots and no errors. The 37th player called today is Diamond Gems veteran Autumn, who plays 7-ball with the green cue. Autumn took 11 shots with no errors to clear the table after a little bad luck. Next up, Apex Wonders veteran Cowzart uses the blue cue in 8-ball. Cowzart rattled off 21 shots with no errors, though he was another player to be slow at the end. Pearl Surfers veteran Boots is ready to go in 8-ball with the silver cue. Boots held on despite some misses, ending on 21 shots with no errors. Todavía Stills veteran Hughbert ends the day in 8-ball with the red cue. Hughbert took two errors but still finished on 20 shots. 

It was a fairly average day, and we'll aim for a little better tomorrow.

Tournament XII Qualifiers - Day 4

We're back with a scheduled 40 games today after struggling yesterday. More 8-ball should be in the mix this time. First up...

Central Warriors star Dustin shoots 7-ball with the silver cue. Dustin was composed a little lucky, finishing with 8 shots and no errors. Everton Eagles newcomer Maggie draws in for 8-ball with the purple cue. Maggie kept her control and finished on 19 shots with no errors in a strong second game. Web City Spiders newcomer Sage goes third today, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Sage turned an awful break into a decent game, finishing with 21 shots and no errors. Jennifer is set for her Graycliff Aces debut, using the purple cue in 7-ball. Jennifer was aggressive from the start, taking one error but making the 7 to the top side on a deflection for 6 shots. Atlantic Pirates captain Delila also shoots 7-ball with the purple cue. Delila committed to clean play, and it forced her into 15 shots despite the zero errors. 

The second group kicks off with Capital City Sharpshooters captain Chris shooting 7-ball with the silver cue. Chris held on despite an early error, ending at 10 shots. Bianca makes her Atlantic Pirates debut next with the blue cue in 7-ball. Bianca couldn't finish it early, so she settled for 10 shots and no errors. Stonebridge Wolves veteran Dewey brings the red cue aboard in 8-ball. Dewey contained his mistakes well, taking no errors in 20 shots despite a tough break. Victoria Spurs star Yekaterina goes ninth today, using the silver cue in 8-ball. Yekaterina didn't get much momentum early on, needing 24 shots and no errors to finish off the game. The batch ends with Westside Rockers captain Misty using the blue cue in 8-ball. Misty played through a rough patch for 20 shots and no errors in a good showing. 

Group three gets going with Pacific Volcanoes star Smokey shooting 8-ball with the purple cue. Smokey took what the table gave him, picking up one error in 18 shots. Graycliff Aces rookie Phoebe checks in for 8-ball with the blue cue. Phoebe did just enough to end at 22 shots and no errors. Going 13th today, the Diamond Gems' Salmo also uses the blue cue in 8-ball. Salmo had a generally good game, but he took one late error and needed 20 shots to finish. Commerce Tradewinds sophomore Blake activates the green cue for 8-ball. Blake looked good and steady, taking no errors in 21 shots to finish her game. Closing out this set, Todavía Stills star Ruby plays 7-ball with the green cue. Ruby hammered the rack down in 9 shots with no errors. 

Central Warriors newcomer Isabella heads group four with the silver cue in hand for 8-ball. Isabella started well, then took a double-error and skidded to 25 shots at the end. Infinity Torpedoes veteran Shelley goes 17th today, using the purple cue in 7-ball. Shelley was business-like, taking just 7 shots with no errors to finish. Web City Spiders rookie Kinley is set for her debut, playing 7-ball with the silver cue. Kinley was alright early, then faded with one error and 12 shots at the end. Maplewood Lumberjacks rookie Tenille T. takes a turn with the red cue in 8-ball. Tenille T. was relentless, taking just 16 shots with no errors in a spectacular showing. The group concludes with Shiny making her Freedom Cascades debut using the red cue in 7-ball. Shiny cleared the table in 9 shots with no errors for a good outing. 

Set five opens with Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot playing 8-ball with the purple cue. Hoot took one error on illegal contact and cleared the table in 20 shots. Phoenix Firebirds rookie Gabby draws in for 8-ball with the silver cue. Gabby had some close calls, but she was able to escape with 20 shots and no errors. Pacific Volcanoes captain Ms. Kitty keeps the silver cue at the table for 7-ball. Ms. Kitty couldn't corral the 7 quickly, ending up at 11 shots and no errors. The Oceanside Waves' Daisy makes her season debut in 7-ball with the red cue. Daisy slipped early and just held on to end at 12 shots with no errors. The 25th player drawn today is Apex Wonders newcomer Klaus, who uses the silver cue in 8-ball. Klaus pushed well early and rode the momentum to 21 shots with no errors. 

Freedom Cascades veteran Andrew starts group six with the silver cue in 8-ball. Andrew made a pair on the break and kept going, taking 16 shots with one error to finish. More 8-ball sees the Todavía Stills' Pedey playing with the blue cue. Poor shooting along the edges made Pedey waste a good start, as he collapsed to 28 shots with no errors. Archtown Arrows veteran Cubby brings the silver cue back for his 8-ball game. Cubby dominated with his shooting, taking just 15 shots and no errors. Pronger Tridents captain Precious plays 29th today, using the green cue in 8-ball. Precious showed her skill in finishing with 16 shots and no errors. Graycliff Aces veteran Paps checks in with the silver cue in 7-ball. Paps nearly made a mess of it on every shot, but finished with 10 shots and no errors. 

The seventh group leads off with Pronger Tridents veteran Prism shooting 7-ball with the blue cue. Prism made a pair on the break and cruised to 7 shots and no errors in her season debut. Harrison Specters veteran Puff II is next, shooting 8-ball with the red cue. Puff II had a couple of errors for scratches, but she was still able to finish on 20 shots. Archtown Arrows captain Sally will use the blue cue in 8-ball in today's 33rd game. Sally didn't get a big run like she needed, and she took two errors en route to 25 shots. Next up, Lighton Prestige star Citrus shoots 8-ball with the green cue. Citrus took one error on a scratch, but managed to close at 20 shots. Enterprise Independents rookie Ollie takes a turn in 8-ball with the blue cue. Ollie stayed focused and finished with 18 shots and no errors in a good turn. 

The final group begins as Viewpoint Sound Meteors newcomer Wings plays 8-ball with the green cue. Wings rattled off 24 shots and one error, overcoming a tough start for a decent finish. Atlantic Pirates newcomer Waluigi goes 37th today, using the red cue in 8-ball. Waluigi had a good showing, taking 20 shots with one error for illegal contact. Southern Monarchs captain Pounce is next, playing 7-ball with the purple cue. Pounce had an adventurous game, taking one error for illegal contact but making the 2 to the top left and the 7 to the top side on the next shot for 6 shots overall. Eastside Sharks newcomer Twinkie I draws in for 8-ball with the red cue. Twinkie I kept it clean with no errors in 19 shots. The day ends with Commerce Tradewinds captain Taylor S. playing 7-ball with the blue cue. Taylor S. had a fortunate contact play pay off, but she still needed 13 shots with no errors to finish the game. 

That's it for a much improved Day 4 of Qualifiers. More to come tomorrow.

Tournament XII Qualifiers - Day 3

We'll go for at least 40 games today, and potentially 50. There will be the potential for 8-ball to enter the mix on this third day of action. Per an agreement between the UPCL and its players, the penalty for an illegally potted 8 in this event will be reduced from five shots to three, which will still all count as errors.  Leading off...

Kodiak of the Web City Spiders plays 7-ball with the purple cue. Kodiak was smart, playing well early and making a 5-7 combination to the bottom right for 6 shots and no errors. Stonebridge Wolves veteran Jane is up next, making her season debut with the red cue. She took an error error, but Jane was able to double-pot the 4 to the top side and the 7 to the bottom left for 8 shots. Queens Flames captain Crystal is next up, using the blue cue in 7-ball. Crystal had a tough start, though she avoided errors in her 11 shots. The Southridge Defenders' Caitlin will be the first to try 8-ball, using the red cue. Caitlin stumbled on her first shot, but corrected course to end with 18 shots and no errors in a sharp outing. Southern Monarchs veteran Molly wraps up this group with the silver cue in 7-ball. Molly struggled with one error early and 13 shots at the end. 

The second group begins with Todavía Stills veteran Hughbert using the red cue in 7-ball. Hughbert took an error in the middle and needed 10 shots to finish the rack. Going seventh today, Swordpoint Blades rookie Anton brings the green cue for 8-ball. Anton showed good shooting early, but decision-making sank him later. He needed 21 shots with no errors to finish the rack. The green cue stays up as the Pearl Surfers' Bright shoots 7-ball. Bright was smart and steady, needing 10 shots with no errors to get through the game. Also in 7-ball, Zenith Skywatchers veteran Bells plays with the silver cue. Bells needed 0 shots and zero errors after dropping the 6 in the top left and the 7 in the top side on the break. Stonebridge Wolves sophomore Lindsay rounds out the set with the purple cue in 7-ball. Lindsay needed 12 shots with no errors to finish the game. 

Group three kicks off with Royal Crowns newcomer Dani shooting 7-ball with the purple cue in her team debut. Dani took some risks to end with 10 shots and one error in a decent game. Zenith Skywatchers strongman Lionel jumps in with 7-ball and the green cue. Lionel didn't push too hard in this one, taking 10 shots and no errors to finish it. The 13th player drawn today is Tysini Hummingbirds star Charli, who uses the purple cue for 7-ball. Charli didn't make the best choices with her positioning, ending up at 11 shots and no errors after making a 5-7 combination to the top right. Everton Eagles captain Goldy is next, using the red cue for 7-ball. Goldy took a scratch on the break, but bounced back to finish at 10 shots with just the one error. Bandit's Atlantic Pirates debut is next, and he'll use the silver cue in 7-ball. Bandit took an early error and then skidded to 15 shots while chasing the 7 around at the end. 

The fourth set sees Sydney C. make her Southridge Defenders debut with the blue cue. Sydney C. took an error and stumbled to 14 shots as the league continues to slump a bit. Phoenix Firebirds captain Neopolitan is back for 8-ball with the purple cue. Neopolitan took two errors and needed 24 shots in a rather lackluster second turn. Back in 7-ball, Rookie Alliance member Olivia uses the blue cue to start her career. It was a nightmare debut that saw Olivia need 21 shots and one error. Archtown Arrows newcomer Sydney S. will try to get things back on track with the red cue in 7-ball. Sydney S. made three balls on the break, but still needed one error and 8 shots to close it out. Going 20th today, Stripes makes her Modernistic Union debut with the purple cue in 7-ball. Stripes finished it off with 12 shots and no errors. 

Commerce Tradewinds star Solaris uses the blue cue in 8-ball to start group five. Solaris had a decent start, but two errors and an awful finish put him at 28 shots. Pacific Volcanoes newcomer Gizmo is ready to go in 7-ball with the silver cue. Gizmo made a ball on the break and kept his cool to finish on 8 shots with no errors. The Diamond Gems' Leonardo will also shoot 7-ball, using the green cue. Leonardo scratched on the break for his lone error in 10 shots. Golden Pilots captain Valencia shoots 24th today, using the red cue in 8-ball. Valencia fell apart late in her game, taking three errors with 29 shots. Pearl Surfers captain Watermelon is up for 7-ball with the red cue. Watermelon had one error and needed 10 shots to finish. 

Batch six gets going as Terrace City Knights newcomer Lexi uses the silver cue in 7-ball. Lexi looked good at first, then took two errors and closed at 12 shots. Capital City Sharpshooters mainstay Missy is up for 7-ball with the blue cue. Missy handled things well, taking 9 shots and no errors. Lighton Prestige veteran Angelica will also use the blue cue in 7-ball. Angelica kept it simple with straight-line play, using 10 shots and no errors to finish. The 29th player called today is Westside Rockers mainstay Goatee, who shoots 7-ball with the green cue. Goatee showed veteran patience with 9 shots and no errors in a fairly standard outing. Queens Flames superstar Violetta ends the group with the blue cue in 7-ball. Violetta went empty on the break, but she made the 1-7 combination to the bottom right to end on 1 shot and no errors. 

The seventh set starts with Southern Monarchs veteran Dominic shooting 7-ball with the green cue. Dominic looked good until a late error pushed him up to a pedestrian 10 shots. Golden Pilots star Dusty is next up, shooting 7-ball with the silver cue. Dusty confidently make the 7 to the bottom right on the break, taking 0 shots and zero errors in her season debut. Terrace City Knights star Oreo plays 8-ball with the green cue in today's 33rd game. Oreo looked to be troubled by a knee injury as she battled foe 26 shots and one error. Westside Rockers veteran Snowball will also shoot 8-ball, using the silver cue. Snowball didn't have enough pace after her hot start, ending on 25 shots and no errors. Back in 7-ball, Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy plays with the green cue. Ms. Puppy faded a little late, but ended with 9 shots and no errors. 

Group eight opens with Tysini Hummingbirds captain Leandra shooting 7-ball with the purple cue. Leandra ended quickly on a 3-7 combination to the bottom side for 3 shots and no errors. The 37th game today is the Midland Predators debut of Sleepy B., who will use the silver cue in 7-ball. Sleepy B. was even better, taking a pair on the break and double-potting the 1 and 7 to the left corners for 1 shot and no errors. Infinity Torpedoes star Fluffina draws in for 7-ball with the green cue next. Fluffina had trouble from the start with bad positioning, and she needed 14 shots with no errors to finish. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Leonette is next up with the blue cue in 7-ball. Leonette posted 12 shots and one error in a lackluster showing. The group concludes with Everton Eagles veteran Vincent shooting 7-ball with the silver cue. Vincent pulled off 10 shots and no errors despite some tough moments. 

Going 41st today, Midland Predators captain Rainmane plays 7-ball with the purple cue. Rainmane didn't mess around, finishing in 9 shots with no errors. Zenith Skywatchers enforced Nightfur is next up with the red cue in 7-ball. Nightfur had bad positioning and needed two errors in 17 shots to get out of the game. Terrace City Knights veteran Melissa brings the purple cue back for 7-ball. Melissa didn't bring a finishing touch, taking one error in 16 shots in her season debut. Boston Swifts veteran Tigerette also tries 7-ball, using the silver cue. Tigerette buried the rack in 12 shots with no errors. Closing the set, Capital City Sharpshooters sophomore Kelsea shoots 8-ball with the green cue. Kelsea held on through a rough middle to end with 24 shots and no errors. 

Freedom Cascades veteran Frosty will head the last group with the red cue in 7-ball. Frosty needed 14 shots with no errors to get through the rack, another player who struggled with positioning. Eastside Sharks captain Taylor M. will get a look at 7-ball with the blue cue. Taylor M. was doing well until a missed contact, her lone error in 12 shots. Golden Pilots veteran Sparkles takes the 48th game today, making her season debut in 7-ball with the purple cue. Sparkles was persistent and made a 2-7 combination to the top right for 5 shots and no errors. Kitty makes her Freedom Cascades debut in 7-ball with the blue cue. Kitty took an error for illegal contact, but she closed at 8 shots. The purple cue ends the day in the hands of Everton Eagles veteran Panda as he shoots 7-ball. Panda salvaged 10 shots and no errors despite not getting the looks he wanted early. 

Despite the struggles today, the league will press on with 40 games tomorrow.

Tournament XII Qualifiers - Day 2

We're back for the second day of qualifying action. This will once again be all 7-ball to allow the league to get many players started before introducing other events. The action begins as...

Infinity Torpedoes star Blaze uses the silver cue. Blaze handled himself well, picking up one error in 10 shots to clear the table. Going second today, Terrace City Knights sophomore Anna also uses the silver cue. Anna had some pop on her break, and she converted a 1-7 combination with a deflection off the 3 at the bottom left to end with 1 shot and no errors. Everton Eagles mainstay Puff III follows with her season debut, using the green cue. Puff III struggled with positioning, taking 13 shots and one error. Victoria Spurs veteran Strawberry brings the silver cue back to the table. Strawberry played a cautious game but still only needed 3 shots and no errors after putting the 2-7 combination in the bottom right. Archtown Arrows captain Sally closes the group by activating the red cue. Sally made a mess with two errors, then cleaned it up in 10 shots for a decent score. 

Commerce Tradewinds sophomore Blake will lead the second group using the blue cue in her team debut. Blake couldn't get her combo attempts to land, but she still finished with 10 shots and no errors. Apex Wonders captain Midnight is next up with the silver cue. Midnight scratched on the break as her lone error, then finished at 7 shots with a 5-7 combination to the top right. Modernistic Union mainstay Puff I goes eighth, using the green cue. Puff I faltered early but held on to end in 9 shots with no errors. Capital City Sharpshooters sophomore Ellie makes her season debut with the red cue. Ellie slipped up with an error and needed 11 shots to finish the rack. Viewpoint Sound Meteors veteran Cobalt ends the group with the blue cue in hand. Cobalt was sharp on offense, taking just 7 shots with no errors. 

The third group begins with Todavía Stills veteran Pedey using the blue cue. Pedey had a decent look early, but his one error in the middle pushed his score up to 11 shots. Queens Flames newcomer Cleo is next, using the green cue in her team debut. Cleo struggled a bit, taking one error and 12 shots in the game. Chicky Phil goes 13th today, using the purple cue in his Oceanside Waves debut. Chicky Phil had a nightmare outing, needing 16 shots with no errors to clear the table. Web City Spiders veteran Nibbles also takes a turn with the purple cue. Nibbles also struggled, with two errors in the middle forcing him up to 13 shots. Sierra is ready for her Stonebridge Wolves debut, using the red cue to close the batch. Sierra had a rough look after the break, but managed to pull off a 1-7 jump-kick combination to end on 1 shot and no errors. 

Apex Wonders newcomer Klaus brings the purple cue back to head group four. Klaus maintained good command and finished on 9 shots with no errors. Graycliff Aces captain Starlight debuts with the green cue in today's 17th game. Starlight couldn't end it early, but she still closed on 9 shots with no errors. Harrison Specters veteran Esmeralda is ready to go with the red cue. Esmeralda took two errors on a missed contact scratch, but her hounding of the 1 allowed her to deflect off of it to pot the 7 at the bottom left. Esmeralda needed 6 shots to end it. Her sister, Eastside Sharks veteran Lily, draws in next with the purple cue. Lily left a couple of shots on the table, but she ended with 9 shots and no errors. Heading into the lunch break, Enterprise Independents rookie Misha is up with the red cue for her career debut. Misha was solid but unremarkable, taking 10 shots with no errors in her first action. 

After the break, Oceanside Waves captain Celestia is up with the red cue. Celestia didn't get clear looks, needing 15 shots and three errors to finish. Royal Crowns veteran Jake is up with the purple cue next. Jake also struggled, taking 16 shots with two errors in this outing. Eastside Sharks newcomer Twinkie I brings the red cue back for her team debut. Twinkie I evaporated the growing frustration by making the 7 on the break to the bottom right for 0 shots and zero errors. Lighton Prestige newcomer Gradley goes 24th today, using the silver cue. Gradley showed strong command to end on 8 shots and no errors. Rounding out the set, Phoenix Firebirds veteran Pauline is up with the green cue. Pauline sputtered too much early on, falling at 12 shots and one error. 

The sixth group starts with Westside Rockers veteran Chimpy also using the green cue. Chimpy posted 9 shots and no errors after adjusting to make a 4-7 combination at the top left. Enterprise Independents rookie Ollie keeps the green cue up at the table for his career debut. Ollie was sharp and lucky, getting his miss on the 4 to turn into making the 7 on the carom at the top left for 4 shots and no errors. Whitewater Shores sophomore Rachel draws in with the red cue for her season debut. Rachel took a pair of errors but managed to hang on for 9 shots. Commerce Tradewinds veteran Luigi checks in with the silver cue. Luigi was sharp when he needed to be, closing on 8 shots with no errors. The 30th player of the day is Viewpoint Sound Meteors star Princess, who uses the silver cue. Princess did well to keep herself in position, taking 9 shots with no errors. 

Group seven opens as Boston Swifts newcomer Dreamy makes her team debut with the purple cue. Dreamy needed 11 shots and no errors in a challenging first game. Web City Spiders newcomer Sage draws in with the green cue in today's 32nd game. Sage got the right pinch late on the break, pushing the 7 to the bottom right to end at 0 shots and zero errors. Freedom Cascades veteran Andrew plays with the red cue next. Andrew was a little sloppy, taking one error to finish at 11 shots. Viewpoint Sound Meteors newcomer Wings uses the blue cue in his team debut. Wings settled in well to end on 9 shots and no errors in a game that could have gone much worse. The group ends with Victoria Spurs captain Spice using the green cue. Spice faltered at 12 shots and one error after a slow start. 

The eighth set kicks off with Royal Crowns rising star Sunshine using the silver cue. Sunshine made a pair on the break and stayed in control to end on 8 shots and no errors. The 37th player drawn today is Archtown Arrows veteran Cubby, who will use the purple cue. Cubby did great, sneaking the 7 to the bottom right on the break for 0 shots and zero errors. Southridge Defenders veteran Roxy is ready to go with the blue cue. Roxy didn't get her preferred positioning, but still made noise with 8 shots and no errors. The Archtown Arrows' Greg is next, making his season debut with the red cue. Greg's break made the 1 and 7 follow each other into the bottom left for 0 shots and zero errors. The group ends with Victoria Spurs veteran Rosalina, who also uses the red cue. Rosalina stumbled to 12 shots with one error after bad positioning. 

Group nine gets going with Phoenix Firebirds sophomore Gabby playing with the green cue. Gabby took one error on a misplay, but finished with 9 shots in a solid game. Graycliff Aces rookie Adele makes her career debut with the red cue. Adele tried to get too creative, ending up with 15 shots and two errors in a rough debut. Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot enters the action with the green cue in hand. Hoot struggled with control, taking a pair of errors in 11 shots. Maplewood Lumberjacks veteran Marissa jumps in with the silver cue for the 44th game today. Marissa turned an early error into success, deflecting her shot on the 1 to the top right to collect the 7 in the bottom right on a double-pot. She had 3 shots and one error in the game. Isabella makes her Central Warriors debut next, using the purple cue. Isabella looked to be in trouble before a 1-6-7 combination to the bottom left ended her game in 3 shots with no errors. 

The final group is underway as Max makes his Victoria Spurs debut with the red cue. Max had a good time, making a pair on the break and ending in 7 shots with no errors. Lighton Prestige captain Acorn goes next, using the blue cue. Acorn left himself with a lot of options and took one early, making a 2-7 combination to the top right for 3 shots and no errors. Going 48th today, Swordpoint Blades newcomer Megan uses the green cue. Megan faltered with one error and just held on to end in 11 shots in a tough game. Boston Swifts veteran Ice Cream uses the purple cue in her season debut. Ice Cream took an early double-error, then took control with 8 shots to finish the rack. The day ends with Whitewater Shores star Marsell using the blue cue in his season debut. Marsell did fine in his game, taking one error and 9 shots to clear the table. 

We'll go again tomorrow with the potential for another 50-game day.

Tournament XII Qualifiers - Day 1

It's been a difficult couple of months for the UPCL, as the affiliated Heart of the Game Speed Pool Challenge was cancelled after just seven days of play. The league moves on, bigger than expected with a 42-team, 210-player competition this season. Qualifying is expected to need 45 to 47 days to finish ahead of the biggest Tournament in league history. The day-off format from last season for Qualifiers remains in place, so the first two days will be all 7-ball action. Without further delay, we lead off with...

Group one, headed by Central Warriors veteran Noelle, who plays with the blue cue. Noelle needed 13 shots and took one error to complete the rack, showing a little rust as expected. Swordpoint Blades rookie Anton will go next with the red cue. Anton had better fortune, getting a ball on the break and finishing with a 3-7 combination for 4 shots and no errors. Apex Wonders sophomore Blair draws in next for a turn with the purple cue. Blair made a pair on the break and took an error, then struggled a bit to end at 10 shots. Diamond Gems veteran Salmo debuts the green cue in the next game. Salmo had a double-error that ruined his performance, which ended at 14 shots. The group ends with Capital City Sharpshooters sophomore Kelsea using the purple cue. Kelsea was creative but still needed 11 shots with no errors to finish the effort. 

The second group gets going with Archtown Arrows veteran Hoppy bringing the silver cue into action. Hoppy, like many others, didn't get great angles and needed 13 shots with no errors to finish. Stonebridge Wolves veteran Dewey goes seventh today, using the blue cue. Dewey had an early error, but it helped him stay on track to end with 9 shots. Maplewood Lumberjacks captain Diddley is next, using the purple cue. Diddley kept it clean with no errors, but still needed 11 shots to finish. Another captain, the Terrace City Knights' Kiwi, is up with the blue cue. Kiwi needed 11 shots, but she also took two errors to ruin a good start. The purple cue is back as Stonebridge Wolves captain Hershey finishes this set. Hershey had a good start, but he took an error and skidded to 11 shots at the end. 

Group three leads off with Atlantic Pirates newcomer Graham using the purple cue. Graham had a good start, but a couple misses put him at 11 shots and no errors. Pronger Tridents captain Precious will try her hand with the blue cue next. Precious had some fortunate bounces to end at 9 shots and no errors. Queens Flames veteran Briana brings the red cue back for her season debut. Briana had a good start, then suffered two errors to end on 12 shots. Terrace City Knights veteran Oreo will also use the red cue. Oreo followed the established pattern, making a couple of good plays only to take an error and end up at 11 shots. Pacific Volcanoes veteran Smokey ends the group using the green cue. Smokey cashed in a deflection off the 2 to make the 3-6 combination at the bottom right, ending with 6 shots and no errors. 

Enterprise Independents rookie Scotty makes his career debut with the silver cue. Scotty held on after an early error, finishing at 10 shots. The first appearance for a Phoenix Firebird is the captain Neopolitan shooting with the blue cue in today's 17th game. Neopolitan avoided errors, but a tough distribution forced her into 12 shots. The Graycliff Aces are immediately welcomed to the show with rookie Phoebe shooting with the blue cue as well. Phoebe ended with 12 shots and two errors after a rough performance. Todavía Stills newcomer Juno uses the purple cue next. Juno was the first to go perfect this season, sending the 7 to the top right for 0 shots and zero errors. Phoenix Firebirds veteran Twinkie III wraps up the group with the blue cue. Twinkie III didn't make a good first impression for her new team, needing 13 shots and no errors to finish.

The fifth group begins as Southridge Defenders returnee Caitlin uses the green cue. Caitlin struggled from the start and took 16 shots with one error in the worst game so far. Puff II of the Harrison Specters is up next with the silver cue. Puff II couldn't make the key shots, struggling to 14 shots and one error after illegally potting the 7 early. The silver cue stays up for today's 23rd game, featuring the Eastside Sharks' Maison. With a pair on the break, Maison remained steady and finished in 8 shots with one error. Todavía Stills captain Easter brings back to the blue cue in her season debut. Easter scratched on the break but settled down for 10 shots and one error in the appearance. Golden Pilots captain Valencia rounds out the batch, also using the blue cue. Valencia struggled initially with one error, but salvaged a decent 11 shots. 

Group six starts with Whitewater Shores captain Shaggy shooting with the red cue. Shaggy started well, but two errors pushed her up to a poor 13 shots. The Commerce Tradewinds' Solaris is next to play, using the green cue. Solaris got it right from the start with 0 shots and zero errors, a bounce sending the 7 to the top right on the break. The Apex Wonders' Cowzart follows that with the red cue. Cowzart had a solid start, but a slow finish put him at 11 shots and no errors. The Rookie Alliance gets its first competitor aboard as Marin uses the red cue. Marin delivered 0 shots and zero errors as the 6 went to the top right and the 7 charged to the top left. At the back of the group, Westside Rockers captain Misty shoots with the green cue. Misty couldn't keep the cue ball on the table, adding three errors in 14 shots. 

The seventh set opens with Waluigi of the Web City Spiders keeping the green cue active. Waluigi played smart, limiting the damage to one error in 11 shots. The green is active again as Oceanside Waves star Patches makes her season debut. Patches faltered with 14 shots and one error, wasting a good start with a sloppy finish. Everton Eagles newcomer Maggie goes 33rd today, playing with the blue cue. Maggie was solid in this game, needing 9 shots with no errors to wipe the table. Victoria Spurs star Yekaterina draws in next with the purple cue. Yekaterina made a pair on the break and played careful for 9 shots and no errors. Westside Rockers star Snowball uses the silver cue to end this batch. Snowball made two on the break and finished in 5 shots with no errors in a crisp outing. 

The final group kicks off with Stephanie's Midland Predators debut, using the blue cue. Stephanie made a pair on the break and walked a tightrope to 9 shots with no errors. Lighton Prestige star Citrus goes 37th today, using the purple cue. Citrus had no problems in her game, taking 6 shots with no errors. Maplewood Lumberjacks rookie Tenille T. is next, using the green cue. Tenille T. got the right collision on the break, with the 7 just making it to the bottom right for 0 shots and zero errors. Boston Swifts captain Sweetheart will take up the green cue next. Sweetheart had a solid performance throughout in 8 shots with no errors. Finally, Pearl Surfers veteran Boots is up with the purple cue to end Day 1. Boots faded late to 11 shots with one error. 

The UPCL remains committed to playing the Tournament XII schedule, but for the first time in many years, it's not guaranteed to be completed. The early games of qualifying will be critical to evaluate where the league and its players are at for the remainder of the year.