Najah Owens

player profile

Hey! I’m Naj, I’m 29 years old and I live in Raleigh, NC.

I have been bowling since I was about 6 years old and also bowled for North Carolina A&T State Univesity from 2012-2016. After college, I was fortunate to meet some amazing people who kept the dedication going and introduced me to leagues, tournaments, and the UBA.

Outside of bowling, you can catch me being a photographer/videographer and working on my passion documentary project called It’s Not Just a Game.

https://www.njo-productions.com/

Home center: AMF Pleasant Valley Raleigh, NC

Who / What Got You Started in Bowling?

Being an only child I was put in many sports growing up and bowling was one I fell in love with. When it came down to go going to college I had the option to pick a golf scholarship or bowling and I’m thankful every day for my journey with this sport.

What Do You Love About the Sport?

I love how each time you step on the lanes there is something different every time and you are able to keep growing from those experiences. Also, this sport connects you to awesome people, and having a support system matters.

Favorite Bowling Memory

My favorite bowling memory has to be from May 28, 2022, I shot back-to-back 300’s (300, 300, 257) for an 857 at the TNBA Nationals in Texas. It literally felt like an out-of-body experience, my nerves were gone and I was just free. The people around me and at home gave me so much love.

Ball used: Roto Grip RST-X1

#Stomrnation

Who is Your Favorite Bowler?

I have a lot of bowlers that I admire but will highlight a few. The first is Coach Kim Terrell Kearney. I wish I could have experienced her spirit and style of coaching when I bowled in college, however, I’m extremely happy the young ladies there now have someone with a heart of gold. Coach Kim is someone I look up to and I was so happy to be selected to receive coaching from her through the Gazmine Mason Foundation: BGCB2 experience.

Another bowler I admire is GG, Gazmine Mason. Her game is really impressive and I love how she lives life and stays true to herself. This sport can be tough but staying positive, and having a clear mind can make it all easier.

Lastly, Norm Duke and EJ Tackett are always fun to watch on the PBA level.