CBS Sports Expands Coverage of PBA World Series of Bowling in New Deal
In an exciting development for bowling enthusiasts, CBS Sports has expanded its coverage of the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) World Series of Bowling (WSOB) with a new two-year media rights deal. Announced recently, the agreement promises a robust 31 hours of dedicated programming during the 2026 season, a significant increase from the nine hours provided in 2025. This agreement solidifies CBS Sports' long-standing relationship with the PBA, a partnership that has been providing top-tier bowling coverage since the 2013 season.
The WSOB is recognized globally as the pinnacle event in bowling, showcasing the sport’s elite talent from around the globe. The upcoming season will feature important competitions, including the prestigious PBA World Championship finals, which can be viewed live on CBS and streaming simultaneously on Paramount+, along with the CBS Sports Network. The tournament has a rich history, having crowned champions from more than 30 countries over its 16-year legacy, with international bowlers increasingly making their mark. Notably, the current WSOB saw victories from bowlers Darren Ong from Singapore and Tun Hakim from Malaysia, highlighting the global reach and competitive nature of the event.
In addition to the World Championship finals, CBS Sports will also cover the newly revamped PBA Commissioner’s Cup. This event, formerly the PBA Tour Finals, will have a new format in 2026 that opens participation to all PBA members rather than being restricted to just the top eight players based on competition points from previous seasons. This shift is designed to enhance engagement and competition, allowing a wider array of talents to showcase their skills. Qualifying rounds will precede the main event, ensuring the televised finale is packed with action and excitement.
According to Lev Ekster, President of Lucky Strike Entertainment, which owns the PBA, CBS Sports' commitment for over a decade has been instrumental in promoting bowling and its athletes. Ekster stated, “The WSOB is the greatest global platform in the sport of bowling. We are confident that CBS Sports will deliver an incredible event, elevating the WSOB and offering fans unforgettable moments.”
The PBA’s influence continues to grow, appealing to millions of fans worldwide while attracting new interest in the sport. CBS Sports’ comprehensive coverage of the WSOB and its various events will undoubtedly contribute to this momentum, making bowling a more popular sport than ever.
As we look ahead to the 2026 season, the anticipation builds for the PBA World Championship and the competitive nature of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup. With the expanded coverage on CBS Sports and streaming options available through Paramount+, fans can look forward to enjoying a tournament packed with thrilling matches showcasing the very best in bowling.
The dedication of both CBS Sports and the PBA to enhance the viewing experience signals a promising future for professional bowling, one where the sport can further establish its footprint on a global scale. Fans and aspiring bowlers alike will reap the benefits of this strategic partnership, making the upcoming season an unmissable showcase of talent and sportsmanship.