When the brackets were released, one of the most intriguing first-round matchups immediately jumped off the page. The #7 seeded Pocket Kingz and the #10 seeded Hot Pockets aren’t just two teams fighting for a spot in the Elite Eight—they’re Central Conference and Northeast Conference powers that know each other all too well. Both franchises earned their place in Battle Bowl XVII through different paths, but each arrives believing their best bowling is still ahead.
The Pocket Kingz are making history. They have won Team Rankings twice and captured the 2025-2026 NJ Central Division District Championship. This year, they have punched their ticket to Battle Bowl XVII, proving they belong among the UBA’s elite.
Their playoff run showcased exactly why they’re dangerous. After surviving an early scare against Hills Have Eyes—overcoming a 72-pin deficit entering Game 3—they flipped the match into a commanding victory before dismantling Bristol Invasion 36-4 to secure their Sweet 16 berth.
Their biggest weapon isn’t just talent—it’s chemistry.
While many teams rebuilt during the season, the Pocket Kingz have maintained a strong core that’s bowled together for years. That trust and familiarity has become the foundation of their success.
Zach Hosler enters Battle Bowl red hot, averaging 243 during the Season Tour and playoffs.
Aaron Williams, a multi-time WCS Heavyweight Champion, led the playoff charge with an incredible 1,461 over six games.
Mark Colineri, the team’s scratch anchor, continues to be the ultimate difference maker. The numbers speak loudly: the Pocket Kingz are 14-2 over the past two seasons whenever Mark shoots 675 or better.
The Pocket Kingz believe Battle Bowl is earned one frame at a time—and they’ve prepared all season for this moment.
If there’s one team embracing the underdog role, it’s the Hot Pockets.
Despite never winning a district title or Team Rankings championship, they’ve quietly built one of the most respected teams in the Central Conference through determination, consistency, and relentless improvement.
Their regular season featured revenge victories, an interconference win, and a willingness to take every available 30-point opportunity. Entering the playoffs as the #6 seed, they battled through three quality opponents to earn their trip to Battle Bowl XVII.
The Hot Pockets pride themselves on something many teams overlook: Communication.
Every bowler knows the score. Every player understands the situation. Whether it’s lane transition advice from four pairs away or tracking every pinfall on a phone, tablet, or scrap of paper, the Hot Pockets refuse to let a match get away because of poor communication.
As President Eddie Lee put it, there is no “ignorance is bliss” on this team. They always know exactly where they stand.
The scratch trio of:
Kye Shipley
Landon Carbaugh
Bill Little
has become one of the strongest scratch groups in the UBA. Rookie sensation Landon Carbaugh is averaging over 230, while all three possess the ability to explode for 300 games and 800 series at any moment.
The handicap side is anchored by experienced veterans:
Jon Snyder
Dan Schaden
Dakota Deutsch
Their leadership provides the balance needed to complement the firepower of the scratch pair.
This matchup could come down to contrasting strengths.
The Pocket Kingz rely on chemistry, star power, and proven playoff performances from their marquee bowlers.
The Hot Pockets counter with exceptional communication, disciplined teamwork, and a balanced lineup that understands exactly what every frame means.
Both teams survived difficult roads through one of the toughest conferences in the UBA. Both believe they’re capable of making a deep Battle Bowl run.Now, only one Central Conference contender will move on.
Battle Bowl XVII begins with a familiar rivalry—but this time, the stakes have never been higher.
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