Domino playing might not seem like a real sport, but ESPN is treating it as such.
The network has teamed up with the Professional Domino Association (PDA) to broadcast the organization’s 2007 official ranking tournament.
Former World Class Wrecking Cru member and promoter Lonzo Williams will host the event, which will take place Oct. 28 at Hollywood Park Casino’s “Club Hall of Fame” in Inglewood, Calif.
Domino players from around the country will compete for cash prizes and ranking position for the 2007 tournament. Cash prizes start at $5,000.00.
The ESPN coverage, which kicked off this month, is the latest in a string of achievements for the PDA, which was launched last year by music veteran and gaming professional Jay King.
“More people are playing dominoes than ever before,” said King, who first gained fame as a member of the group Club Nouveau. “We hope to turn Texas Hold ‘Em into Texas Fold ‘Em! Dominoes are to games what Hip-Hop is to music.”
King and Williams are both pioneers of West coast rap music.
The former was a member of Timex Social Club and Club Nouveau, groups that released hit singles like “Rumors” (1986) and a remake of Bill Withers’ “Lean on Me.” (1988).
Williams is known for founding the World Class Wrecking Cru, which featured future NWA members and producers Dr. Dre and Yella.
The PDA is currently planning a 12-city tour held in conjunction with the ranking tournament, as well as an invasion of stores and online video with official PDA domino and chip sets, in addition to video and cell phone games.
The PDA’s professional tournament will start Feb. 10. For more details visit www.ProDominoAssociation.com