Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Every Battle Bowl produces a matchup that feels like it was destined to happen. This year, that honor belongs to the opening-round showdown between sixth-seeded Murder Inc. and eleventh-seeded Taking Care of Business. On paper, it’s a classic battle between proven championship pedigree and a hungry franchise determined to prove it belongs among the UBA’s elite.
For Murder Inc., reaching the Sweet 16 is simply another chapter in a franchise that has made winning a habit. District champions in 2018, 2023, and 2026, they arrive at Battle Bowl carrying both confidence and experience. Their roster features current WCS competitor Anthony Olivera, and according to team secretary Pamela Sawicki, there’s never been any doubt about where this team belongs.
“To some it may be unexpected, but to us it’s business as usual.”
That mindset has defined Murder Inc. for years. Built on trust, chemistry, and a family atmosphere, they believe their greatest strength isn’t just talent—it’s the bond that has been forged through years of competing together. Sawicki points to veteran Joey Weisenstein as a player capable of making a major impact, but she’s quick to emphasize that everyone has a role in the franchise’s success.
Their message is simple: they’ve been here before, they know what it takes, and they’re coming to Battle Bowl with one goal—leave as champions once again.
Standing across the lanes is a franchise writing one of the most inspiring stories of the season.
Taking Care of Business may not own district titles or WCS champions, but what they do possess is something that can’t be measured on paper: relentless determination. After falling just one match short of Battle Bowl last season, the franchise refused to let history repeat itself.
Owner David Draper describes their journey in three words: relentlessness, determination, and dedication.
Those weren’t just words. Throughout the season, Taking Care of Business battled through difficult losses, injuries to key bowlers, and roster changes that could have derailed many teams. Instead, every setback became motivation. The additions of Ryan Ward and Brad Richardson injected new life into the lineup, while teammates continually stepped up whenever adversity struck.
“We’re more than teammates—we’re family.”
That family mentality has become the identity of Taking Care of Business. Their camaraderie has carried them to their first Sweet 16 appearance, and leaders Cory Lutz, Jermaine Richardson, Jason Conner, and Brad Richardson have helped establish a culture where every player is expected to contribute.
Experience may favor Murder Inc., but momentum belongs to Taking Care of Business.
This matchup could ultimately come down to composure. Murder Inc. has been on this stage before and understands the pressure that comes with Battle Bowl. They know how to manage emotions, execute in clutch situations, and capitalize on mistakes.
Taking Care of Business, however, enters with nothing to lose and everything to gain. Teams playing with confidence and freedom often become the most dangerous opponents in tournament play.
One franchise expects another championship because that’s what it has always done.
The other believes this is the year their promise becomes reality.
When the lights come on at Battle Bowl XVII, only one family will continue its march toward the $50,000 Wilder Cup. Whether it’s the championship experience of Murder Inc. or the relentless rise of Taking Care of Business, fans should expect one of the most emotionally charged opening-round battles of the Sweet 16.
#EmbraceTheCulture
