Dan Knowlton Secures Second Career Title at 2024 PBA50 Morgantown Classic

A Strategic Victory Built on Confidence and Adaptability

Dan Knowlton claimed his second career PBA50 title at the 2024 PBA50 Morgantown Classic, showcasing strategic lane play and unwavering confidence. Throughout the tournament, he relied on just two bowling balls—one urethane and one reactive—carefully adjusting his approach based on lane conditions. His patience and adaptability ultimately led him to victory, culminating in a near-perfect 299 in the championship match.

Overcoming Doubts in the Semifinal

Despite his well-planned strategy, Knowlton faced a moment of self-doubt before his semifinal match against No. 5 seed John Janawicz. He considered changing his equipment but ultimately stuck with what had worked all week. His decision paid off as he delivered five consecutive strikes to take a 23-pin lead.

Janawicz responded with a series of strikes after a ball change in the seventh frame, but Knowlton, as the higher seed, chose to finish first and doubled in the final frames. His last shot went Brooklyn for a strike, securing a 245 score. Janawicz had a chance to close the gap but left a crucial stone 9-pin, finishing with 235.

A Near-Perfect Performance in the Championship Match

In the final match against No. 1 seed Jason Couch, Knowlton maintained his composure and aggressive play. He started with 11 consecutive strikes, putting himself in position for a perfect 300 game. With a bonus prize at stake, he took a rerack before his final shot but pulled it slightly left, leaving the 6-pin standing for a 299 finish.

Couch struggled early, opening with three straight spares before finding his rhythm. He struck five times in his final six shots, but his 234 was not enough to challenge Knowlton’s dominant performance.

With this victory, Knowlton now holds two PBA50 titles, following his first win at the 2023 PBA50 Ballard Championship.

Building Confidence for Future Challenges

Knowlton’s recent success has bolstered his confidence, especially after being selected for Senior Team USA. He is set to compete next month in Reno at the 2024 PANAM Bowling Senior Men’s Championships.

“I have always looked at anything Team USA and thought that must be an incredible experience,” Knowlton said. “To wear our country’s colors and possibly win a medal would be even more special than my PBA50 titles.”

Dedication to Improvement Pays Off

Knowlton has worked extensively on refining his game, particularly in increasing his axis rotation for more versatility on high-volume oil patterns. He admitted that playing further inside and creating a sharper angle was a weakness in his game.

To address this, he sought out tournaments with challenging oil conditions and dedicated himself to improving his technique. His efforts were evident in the championship match, where his adaptability and skill were on full display.

Road to the Finals

The tournament featured intense competition leading up to the championship match.

• Match 1: John Janawicz defeated No. 4 seed John Burkett, 237-214.
• Match 2: Janawicz then overcame Mark Sullivan, who was making his first-ever PBA50 stepladder finals appearance, with a 216-184 victory.
• Semifinal Match: Knowlton edged out Janawicz in a thrilling 245-235 battle.
• Championship Match: Knowlton’s 299 secured the title against Couch’s 234.

Final Standings – 2024 PBA50 Morgantown Classic

1. Dan Knowlton – $7,500
2. Jason Couch – $4,000
3. John Janawicz – $2,600
4. Mark Sullivan – $2,200
5. John Burkett – $1,900

Knowlton’s victory at the 2024 PBA50 Morgantown Classic not only adds to his growing resume but also reinforces his standing as one of the top competitors on the PBA50 circuit. With renewed confidence and refined skills, he looks poised for even greater success in the coming tournaments.