Orcollo, Van Boening Lead Million Dollar Billiards Event

Dennis Orcollo continues his reign of terror at the Million Dollar 9-Ball Tournament, put on by Allen Hopkins and hosted by the Valley Forge Convention Center. This inaugural event boasts a $20,000 first-place prize and 12 of the world’s finest players vying for top honors in this unusual and innovative event.

Orcollo was leading the pack after the first night’s matches by a margin of 6 games at 37, his closest competitor being Johnny “The Scorpion” Archer with 31—after a total of 50 games played. Now Orcollo leads by 64 games (out of 100 played), with Francisco Bustamante his nearest competition with 56 wins under his belt.

Right behind them are Corey Deuel and Shane Van Boening, both tied at 54 games apiece; however, Van Boening has the advantage, for he has notched a stunning 26 break and run-outs, which will come into play in case of a tie-breaker. As of yet, Van Boening holds the record for the most break and run-outs. Deuel, though, is right behind him with 25, and Dennis Hatch has scored 23 break and run-outs.

Following Deuel and Van Boening in games is Archer with 53, Hatch and Tony Chohan with 52, “Marvelous” Marlon Manalo with 51, Steve Moore with 50, and reigning world champion Daryl Peach with 49. Matt Krah and Evan Broxmeyer are trailing with 40 and 26, respectively.

After Saturday’s two rounds, the field will be reduced to only four players, who will return Sunday to make their play for the $20,000 grand prize. The four highest-scoring players will come back Sunday, and the player with the highest score will play the contestant with the lowest score, while the two remaining will play each other.