Jakob Butturff, an eight-time Professional Bowling Association (PBA) Tour champion, died unexpectedly at the age of 32 on Friday (July 31).
The bowling world is in shock at the sudden death of a young man affectionately dubbed "Butters" by his fellow bowlers. Details regarding his passing have not yet been disclosed, and both the PBA and his fellow bowlers have spoken out to pay tribute to a "top player in the sport".
Commissioner: 'One of the most unique players in PBA history'
PBA Commissioner Tom Clark led the tributes in a statement from the association, saying: "Jakob was one of the most unique players in PBA history. Fans marvelled at his delivery, as he rode a wave of strikes into becoming a top player in the sport, capable of winning at any time, in any event. Jakob was kind, he was respectful, and he was a champion. He will never be forgotten. Our hearts are with all Butters touched on his one-of-a-kind journey."
Butturff was born and raised in Las Vegas. He did not post much on Instagram, but had several photos and loving messages to his girlfriend Mya.
Career highlights
Butturff first made a name for himself in the bowling scene during the 2016 season, winning his first two PBA Tour titles and dominating the PBA Regional Tour with a record nine titles and earning West Region and Northwest Region Player of the Year honours.
He amassed 27 PBA Regional Tour titles and added Northwest Region Player of the Year awards in 2017 and 2018. During the 2019 PBA Tour season, Butturff finished as the runner-up in Chris Schenkel PBA Player of the Year voting. He won three titles, including his signature major win in the 2019 USBC Masters, and finished runner-up to Jason Belmonte in the PBA World Championship.
Team USA and televised 300
Butturff was a seven-time member of Team USA, helping them take the 2017 Qubamica World Cup and multiple gold and silver medals. He bowled the 28th televised 300 game in PBA history during the 2020 PBA Tour Finals.
Fellow bowlers pay tribute
Jason Belmonte simply wrote: "The PBA has lost one of its kindest."
EJ Tackett wrote: "It ain’t supposed to be like this. It’s nothing short of soul crushing. Butters was one of the guys that would give the shirt off his back for anyone in need and he showed that time and time again. The bowling world lost today and it will never be the same. We all love you buddy. Until we meet again my friend."
AJ Johnson wrote: "Butters, I don’t even have the words right now, but just know you will be missed, loved, and always remembered! You had one of the biggest hearts and made everyone laugh! I love you Butters, now go give your mom the biggest hug you always gave us!"
