PBA Slam 2019 Highlights: Top Moments and Winning Strategies Revealed

Looking back at the PBA Slam 2019, I still get chills remembering how the atmosphere in the arena seemed to vibrate with pure competitive electricity. As someone who’s covered professional bowling for over a decade, I can honestly say that this tournament stood out—not just for the high scores and dramatic finishes, but for the raw emotion and mental resilience on display. One moment that’s stuck with me is hearing a top contender say, “I’ll take that pain and I’ll take that regret anytime.” That phrase, more than any statistic or trophy, captures what made the 2019 Slam so unforgettable. It wasn’t just about strikes and spares; it was about heart, grit, and the willingness to embrace pressure.

The tournament kicked off with some truly explosive performances, but what really caught my eye was the strategic shift many players adopted early on. Instead of sticking to their usual lane play, several top bowlers—like top seed Jason Belmonte—experimented with asymmetrical ball drilling and adjusted their rev rates mid-game. I remember watching Belmo’s qualifying round and thinking, “He’s not just bowling; he’s solving a puzzle.” His decision to increase his axis rotation by roughly 15% in the second block was a game-changer, leading to a stunning 289 game that set the tone for the entire event. That kind of adaptability, in my view, is what separates good bowlers from great ones. And honestly, I’ve always admired players who aren’t afraid to tweak their technique under pressure—it shows a level of confidence that’s rare even at this elite level.

Of course, no discussion of the 2019 Slam would be complete without talking about the unforgettable semifinal match between Tom Smallwood and EJ Tackett. Smallwood, who’d been flying under the radar for much of the season, delivered what I consider one of the most clutch performances in recent PBA history. Needing a double in the tenth frame to secure a spot in the finals, he stepped up and threw two perfect pocket shots under immense pressure. The crowd erupted, but what struck me was his demeanor afterward. In a post-match interview, he reflected on past losses and said, “I’ll take that pain and I’ll take that regret anytime if it means I get another shot like this.” That mindset—turning past failures into fuel—is something I believe every aspiring bowler should take to heart. It’s not just about physical skill; it’s about emotional resilience.

Another highlight was the surprising dominance of two-handed bowlers throughout the tournament. I’ve always been fascinated by this style, and in 2019, it felt like we reached a tipping point. Around 40% of the finalists used some form of two-handed delivery, and the rev rates we saw were off the charts—players like Anthony Simonsen were consistently hitting 600-plus RPMs. From my perspective, this wasn’t just a trend; it was a strategic evolution. The two-handed approach allowed for sharper entry angles and more pin action, especially on the challenging 45-foot Shark pattern used during the finals. I’ll admit, I’m a bit biased—I love seeing innovation in traditional sports—and this felt like a clear message that bowling is evolving whether traditionalists like it or not.

The final match itself was a masterclass in mental toughness. Belmonte faced off against Simonsen in a battle that went down to the wire, with both players averaging over 240 for the series. What stood out to me, though, was how they handled the mounting pressure. Belmonte, after leaving a devastating 7-10 split in the sixth frame, didn’t falter. Instead, he regrouped and threw four consecutive strikes to close the gap. When asked later how he bounced back, he echoed that now-famous line about embracing pain and regret. Simonsen, on the other hand, relied on his youth and fearless attitude, firing a crucial strike in the ninth frame that ultimately sealed his 258-247 victory. Watching that, I couldn’t help but feel that we were witnessing the future of the sport—a blend of experience and bold new talent.

Reflecting on the PBA Slam 2019, it’s clear that the winning strategies went beyond technical execution. Yes, equipment choices mattered—over 70% of finalists used hybrid reactive resin balls, for instance—but the real differentiator was mindset. Players who viewed setbacks as opportunities, who welcomed the sting of past defeats as motivation, consistently outperformed those who played it safe. Personally, I think that’s a lesson that extends far beyond bowling. Whether you’re an athlete or not, there’s power in accepting that struggle and regret are part of growth. The 2019 Slam reminded us all that sometimes, the most victorious moments are born from the pain we choose to carry forward.