Women’s Professional Pool in 2026: Kelly Fisher’s Championship, Billie Billing’s Hall of Fame Induction, and the Rise of the WPBA

March 26, 2026

Women’s professional billiards is experiencing a golden era. The Women’s Professional Billiard Association (WPBA) has been delivering world-class competition throughout the 2025-2026 season, and the latest events have given fans plenty to celebrate. From Kelly Fisher’s championship run to Billie Billing’s Hall of Fame induction, here is everything happening in women’s pool right now.

Kelly Fisher Wins the WPBA DR Pool Jacoby Tour Championships

Kelly Fisher, one of the most decorated players in women’s billiards history, added another title to her legendary resume by winning the WPBA DR Pool Jacoby Tour Championships. Hosted by Dean Roeseler and DR Pool Promotions at the Dale Elliot Central Wisconsin Convention and Expo Center, the event drew 48 players in an intensely competitive field.

Fisher’s path to the title was anything but easy. With emerging talents like April Gonzales, Elise Qiu, and local favorites Veronica Lyon and Bonnie Hunkins all making strong impressions, the depth of talent in women’s pool has never been greater. Runner-up Pia Filler pushed Fisher to the limit in what was a thrilling championship match.

The tournament was proudly sponsored by Jacoby Custom Cues — a brand known for their meticulous craftsmanship and performance. We carry a full selection of Jacoby Pool Cues at Quarter King Billiards if you want to play with the same quality trusted by WPBA champions.

Billie Billing Inducted into the WPBA Hall of Fame

In a highlight of the annual WPBA banquet, Billie Billing was inducted into the WPBA Hall of Fame — a well-deserved honor for a player and ambassador who has contributed enormously to the growth of women’s cue sports. The ceremony also recognized Walter Harper with the President’s Award and Lonnie Fox Raymond with the Tournament Director’s Award for her outstanding streaming coverage.

These behind-the-scenes contributors are crucial to making professional pool accessible to fans worldwide. If watching the WPBA has inspired you to pick up a cue, there has never been a better time to start.

The 2026 Iron City Invitational in Birmingham

The 2026 Olhausen Iron City Invitational VI in Birmingham, Alabama continued the WPBA’s momentum with 16 players advancing to the final stage at Iron City Billiards. The event featured money rounds from the opening match, creating a pressure-cooker atmosphere that brought out the best in every competitor.

Friday’s opening round saw strong fan support and several matches that came down to late momentum swings — exactly the kind of drama that makes live professional pool so captivating.

Getting Started in Pool: Inspired by the Pros

One of the best things about watching professional women’s pool is how it inspires new players to pick up the sport. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to get more serious about your game, having the right equipment makes a huge difference.

For beginners: Start with a quality starter cue that will not break the bank. Our Valhalla by Viking lineup offers exceptional value with solid construction and a real wood core — perfect for developing proper technique. The Talon starter cues are another excellent option with vibrant color options.

For intermediate players ready to upgrade: Step up to a Pechauer, Lucasi, or McDermott playing cue for noticeably better performance and feel.

Do not forget accessories: A good billiard glove ensures a smooth, consistent stroke. Kamui chalk minimizes miscues. And a proper cue case protects your investment.

FAQ

Who won the 2026 WPBA Tour Championships?
Kelly Fisher won the WPBA DR Pool Jacoby Tour Championships, defeating Pia Filler in the final.

Who was inducted into the WPBA Hall of Fame in 2026?
Billie Billing was inducted into the WPBA Hall of Fame during the annual banquet at the Tour Championships.

What is the WPBA?
The Women’s Professional Billiard Association (WPBA) is the governing body for women’s professional pool in the United States, organizing tournaments and ranking the world’s top female players since 1976.

What cue should a beginner use?
For beginners, we recommend starting with a quality starter cue like a Valhalla by Viking or Talon cue — both offer excellent value and reliable performance as you develop your skills.

About Corey Bernstein

Corey Bernstein is a competitive pool player, billiards equipment specialist, and co-owner of Quarter King Billiards in Wilmington, North Carolina. With over a decade of experience in the sport, Corey has competed in regional APA and BCA sanctioned tournaments and maintains an intimate knowledge of cue construction, shaft technology, and table mechanics. As a certified dealer for brands including Predator, McDermott, Jacoby, Viking, Lucasi, Meucci, Joss, and Cuetec, Corey personally tests and evaluates every cue that comes through the shop. His hands-on approach to the business means he has racked thousands of hours behind the table — breaking in shafts, comparing tip compounds, and dialing in the nuances that separate a good cue from a great one. When he is not behind the counter or on the table, Corey is researching the latest advances in low-deflection technology, carbon fiber shaft construction, and cue ball physics. His articles on Quarter King Billiards combine real-world playing experience with deep product knowledge to help players at every level find the right equipment for their game.

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