LAS VEGAS, Nev., April 18, 2023 -- Morgan State freshman Johnna Hill leads the field of 24 after day one of the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Intercollegiate Singles Championships.
Hill, the 2022-23 MEAC Rookie of the Year, is the top seed entering match play, and received a first-round bye to Wednesday's second round. Hill averaged over 235 for the day.
She opened play with a game of 213, which would prove to be her lowest of the day. She moved into 5th place after scores of 223 and 222 in games two and three.
In game four, Hill threw seven consecutive strikes to start the game, en route to a 263, vaulting her into first place. She completed the round with games of 244 and 248 to retain the top spot.
According to head coach Tom Falbo, "Johnna executed at a world class level today. She stayed patient until the lanes played to her favor. From that point on, she was locked in and aggressive to the final ball of the day."
As for being the top seed, Hill notes, "It feels powerful. I am extremely happy with my performance in qualifying. It's just important to remember the job isn't finished and that I need to keep the energy and momentum going."
She added, "My plan for brackets (Wednesday) is to get in the same zone. The combination of throwing with intent and having a quiet mind will bring me to success. I know when I am locked in, there will be nothing in the way of me making it out of match play."
Round two begins at 7a.m. (Pacific) on Wednesday at the South Point Bowling Stadium in Las Vegas, Nev.
Special thank you to Saint Vincent College Head Coach, Jeff Zidek, who contributed to this release.