Bowling’s Big Break CBS Sports Triples PBA Coverage in Historic 2026 Deal

Bowling is rolling into the spotlight like never before, as CBS Sports triples its national coverage of the PBA in a groundbreaking new media deal set to elevate the sport for millions of fans in 2026. Bowling fans are in for a treat: CBS Sports and the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) have inked a new two-year media rights deal that will triple national coverage of the sport in 2026. The agreement boosts PBA broadcast hours from just nine in 2025 to a whopping 31 hours across the CBS Television Network, with simultaneous streaming on Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network.

Marquee Events Take Center Stage

The expanded partnership means fans will enjoy comprehensive coverage of two of the PBA’s biggest events: the PBA World Series of Bowling (WSOB) and the newly revamped PBA Commissioner’s Cup. The WSOB, now in its 16th year, features four animal pattern championships—Scorpion, Viper, Shark, and Chameleon—culminating in the PBA World Championship finals. In 2026, CBS Sports Network will air the preliminary and championship rounds of each animal pattern event, with the World Championship finals broadcast live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+.

PBA Commissioner’s Cup: New Format, More Drama

The PBA Commissioner’s Cup, formerly the PBA Tour Finals, gets a major overhaul in 2026. Instead of limiting the field to the top eight players in competition points over the previous two seasons, the event will now be open to all PBA members. A qualifying round will determine the eight finalists who will compete in the televised finals, which will feature nine hours of live coverage on CBS Sports Network.

Since its inception in 2017, the event has seen champions like Tackett, Belmonte, Kyle Troup, and Anthony Simonsen each win twice. The new format promises even more excitement and inclusivity for fans and competitors alike.

A Decade-Long Partnership Grows

CBS Sports has been a dedicated partner of the PBA since 2013, broadcasting major events like the US Open and the PBA Tour Finals. This expanded agreement highlights the network’s commitment to elevating professional bowling and bringing the sport to a wider audience.

Lev Ekster, President of Lucky Strike Entertainment, said: CBS Sports has championed the PBA and our athletes for more than a decade. The WSOB is the greatest global platform in the sport of bowling. We are certain CBS Sports will not only deliver an incredible event to bowling fans around the world, but continue to elevate the WSOB.

The 2025 PBA Tour Finals will air live June 7-8 on CBS Sports Network, offering a preview of the expanded coverage to come. With millions of fans worldwide and a growing roster of international stars, the PBA is poised for its most exciting era yet.