Kyle Troup Claims Victory at Just Bare PBA Indiana Classic

Kyle Troup made history as the first two-time champion of the 2024 PBA season, securing his 12th career title by defeating top-seeded EJ Tackett in the Just Bare PBA Indiana Classic at David Small’s Championship Lanes in Anderson, Indiana.

A Dominant Performance

Troup showcased his skill and composure in the title match, posting a 228-213 victory over Tackett. With this win, he solidified his position as an early favorite for Player of the Year. Since the previous season, Troup has won three of the last eight PBA Tour title events, further proving his dominance on the lanes.

In a nod to his father, Guppy Troup, Kyle sported a half-yellow, half-blue quilt-patterned uniform, inspired by the pants his father wore during the 1998 Storm Flagship Open.

The road to the title was anything but easy. Canada’s Zach Wilkins set the pace by defeating Mexico’s Benjy Martinez in the opening match with eight consecutive strikes to close the game. Troup then faced Wilkins in a high-scoring duel on the 37-foot Viper oil pattern. Striking on his first eight shots and finishing with a 279 game, Troup advanced to the semifinals against Marshall Kent.

Mental Strength and Strategic Play

Troup edged out Kent in a closely contested 227-224 semifinal battle. Kent, who had been in top form throughout the tournament, struggled with accuracy on the left lane, allowing Troup to capitalize.

In the final match against Tackett, Troup’s confidence was evident. Before the competition, he expressed belief that if he could reach the championship match, he would have the mental edge. His record of 3-1 against Tackett in televised finals, along with his renewed focus, played a significant role in his success.

A key factor in Troup’s resurgence was the book Mind Gym, gifted to him by Storm tour representative Jim Callahan. He read it throughout all 36 games of qualifying and match play, which helped him regain his mental edge after missing the cut in Illinois and Missouri.

Looking Ahead

With his second title of the season, Troup is now firmly in the Player of the Year conversation. However, he remains focused on the bigger picture.

“I feel like I’ve got to bowl better more consistently if I want to worry about that,” Troup said. “We’ll worry about (Player of the Year) after the Tournament of Champions in April. My goal is to make the PBA Playoffs and the Tour Finals.”

While Troup celebrated his win, Tackett reflected on his continued struggles to secure a title in 2024. Despite making four consecutive championship rounds and seven straight top-four finishes in his home state, Tackett has yet to claim a victory this season.

“I would be lying if I said it wasn’t wearing me down,” Tackett admitted. “I have to find it within myself to go to Delaware, give myself another opportunity, and hope that next time, things go my way.”

The PBA Tour now heads east for the PBA Delaware Classic, with qualifying rounds beginning Wednesday. Fans can follow all the action on BowlTV.

Championship Round Scores

• Match 1: No. 5 Zach Wilkins def. No. 4 Benjy Martinez, 259-225
• Match 2: No. 3 Kyle Troup def. No. 5 Zach Wilkins, 279-254
• Semifinal: No. 3 Kyle Troup def. No. 2 Marshall Kent, 227-224
• Championship: No. 3 Kyle Troup def. No. 1 EJ Tackett, 228-213

Final Standings & Prize Money

1. Kyle Troup – $25,000
2. EJ Tackett – $15,000
3. Marshall Kent – $12,500
4. Zach Wilkins – $10,000
5. Benjy Martinez – $8,000

The PBA Elite League presented by Snickers continues on Tuesday, February 27, followed by the PBA Delaware Classic. Will Troup continue his winning streak? Stay tuned for more exciting action from the PBA Tour! 🎳🔥