Jakob Butturff, an eight-time champion on the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour, has passed away suddenly at the age of 32.
The tragic news was announced by PBA Commissioner Tom Clark, who revealed that the bowling star died unexpectedly on Friday. At this time, no official cause of death has been disclosed.
Remembering the young athlete as "one of the most unique players in PBA history," Clark offered a heartfelt tribute to Butturff's character and unforgettable style on the lanes.
"Fans marveled 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," Clark said in his statement. "Jakob was kind, he was respectful, and he was a champion. He will never be forgotten."
Butturff first captured the bowling world's attention during a spectacular 2016 breakout season. That year, he secured his first two national PBA Tour titles and established dominance on the regional circuit, earning Player of the Year honors in both the West and Northwest regions. Over the course of his impressive career, Butturff amassed 27 PBA Regional Tour titles and continued to rack up accolades, including consecutive Northwest Region Player of the Year awards in 2017 and 2018.