My opinion is that the tour and ESPN are trying to rediscover themselves and (from the PBA's standpoint) make the show more interesting to the masses.
Rob Stone - C. I don't mind him myself, but I know he's aware of where he stands with the pro's on tour as far as his catchphrases are concerned, and the comments about having another catchphrase to irritate the masses shows me he's aware of what he's doing. He's improved from last year, but there's not the polish and professionalism that the broadcasters had when the tour was on national television. But then again, you could argue the lack of polish and professionalism is what made ESPN what it is today -- but I'm not gonna be the one to do it.
Randy P. - B+/A-. He could do more, but he's hampered by Stone and his motormouth. I do think it would be interesting to see perhaps Brian Voss and Randy P being the two commentators for the shows. I'd like to see more segments where if he makes a statement like he's done all season of 'playing the inside of the ball', he goes out say the next week and literally shows/disects the release on the lanes where we get to see what he's talking about. Even if they gave him 'MaddenCam' where he could write on a whiteboard over the screen so as to point out the difference between one release vs. another.
ESPN Production: D. The telecast looks like it's rookies on parade when it comes to the camera work. Granted they 'might' not be able to pull out every camera angle we'd want to see, and Big Wes or Robert Smith might block a camera angle or two when they bowl, but when Norm does it - there's something wrong. Plus it appears that a couple of the cameras are specifically placed for upskirt pics when the ladies are bowling. I won't provide an opinion on that - just pointing it out.
Time Slot: it's fine for me, but I don't watch football, and that's the time the kids are down for naps on Sunday.
Different innovations: I thought it might be a B at best when they announced it, but it turned out to be a solid A in my book.
Xtra Frame -- has potential, but I didn't buy it so I can't grade what I didn't see.
Next Seasons first 7 shows in one city on tape delay? they must be hurting for money. But on the bright side, perhaps they can work something out for the camera people to get practice during this time.
Next thing I'd love to see is the Women's tournament expanded -- even if they only bowl one game on tv like they did this season -- they should have an opportunity at every tour stop. Ditto for the Seniors.
Also they need to broadcast the college bowling championships - men's and women's.
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