Stephanie Zavala Clinches Fifth PWBA Tour Title at BowlTV Classic

Stephanie Zavala is making a name for herself in the Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA) Tour, and on Sunday night, she took another major step in her career. The 27-year-old right-hander from Downey, California, secured her fifth PWBA Tour title by winning the 2023 BowlTV Classic, defeating Shannon Pluhowsky 223-202 at Spectrum Lanes.

A Rising Star in the PWBA Tour

Zavala, the 2021 PWBA Tour Rookie of the Year, has now claimed at least one title in each of her three professional seasons. Her latest victory came after a strong showing in match play, where she posted a 7-5 record and amassed a total pinfall of 5,578, including bonus pins.

The stepladder finals, streamed live on BowlTV, showcased Zavala’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure. She first faced No. 4 seed Hope Gramly, who had earned her spot by defeating seven-time PWBA Tour champion Kelly Kulick 259-216.

A Thrilling Battle Against Gramly

Zavala’s match against Gramly turned out to be the most intense of the night. Despite an open frame in the first, Zavala recovered with a series of strikes and spares to take the lead. However, a costly split in the ninth frame left the door open for Gramly.

Needing a strong finish, Zavala delivered three consecutive strikes in the 10th frame, forcing Gramly into a high-pressure situation. Gramly, a PWBA Tour rookie, had previously thrived under pressure at the 2023 Intercollegiate Team Championships. But this time, her first shot in the 10th frame missed the pocket, leaving the 2-4-8 combination. Although she converted the spare and struck on her fill ball, Zavala edged out a dramatic 203-202 victory.

Cruising Through the Semifinals

In the semifinals, Zavala faced No. 2 seed Melanie McDaniel, who was making her first stepladder finals appearance. Despite McDaniel’s strong qualifying performance, she struggled in the match, opening four times in the first eight frames. Zavala took full advantage, cruising to a 224-169 win and securing her place in the championship match.

A Familiar Rivalry in the Finals

In the title match, Zavala met Pluhowsky, a two-time PWBA champion and 23-time Team USA member. This was not their first high-stakes encounter—Zavala had defeated Pluhowsky in the 2022 PWBA Tour Championship final.

Zavala started the final match strong, opening with a double and taking an early lead. Pluhowsky responded with a three-strike run, but Zavala matched her, maintaining control. Unlike her earlier match against Gramly, Zavala did not let this one go down to the wire, staying consistent through the final frames to seal a 223-202 victory.

Looking Ahead to More Success

For Zavala, this win is another step toward her ultimate goal—PWBA Hall of Fame status.

“This feels insanely great,” Zavala said. “This is what we dream of and work for. One day, I hope I’m a hall of famer, and I feel like I’m getting closer with every win.”

With her spot secured for the PWBA Tour Championship, Zavala is already looking forward to defending her title later this year.

The PWBA Classic Series – Grand Rapids continues with the Great Lakes Classic, where Pluhowsky, Gramly, Zavala, and others will battle for another major title. The finals will be broadcast live on BowlTV on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Eastern, with the winner taking home a $12,000 prize.