EJ Tackett is a name that stands out in the world of professional bowling. The Indiana native has become one of the most successful and exciting players on the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour, known for his explosive style, record-breaking consistency, and multiple Player of the Year honors. Whether you’re a longtime bowling fan or just discovering the sport, EJ Tackett net worth, biography, and incredible journey offer a compelling story of talent, hard work, and family support.
Personal Details
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Edward Dean Tackett Jr. |
| Nickname / Stage Name | EJ Tackett (sometimes called “Squirrel”) |
| Date of Birth | August 7, 1992 |
| Age | 33 |
| Birthplace | Huntington, Indiana, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Professional ten-pin bowler |
| Known For | 27 PBA Tour titles, 7 major championships, 4× PBA Player of the Year, PBA Triple Crown winner |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) |
| Family / Spouse | Married to Natalie (Goodman) Tackett since 2019; son Tripp; brother Zac Tackett (also a PBA pro) |
| Education | Huntington North High School; attended Purdue University Fort Wayne |
| Social Media Followers | ~89,000 on Instagram (@ejt300) |
| Estimated Net Worth | $5 million (as of 2026) |
Early Life and Background
EJ Tackett grew up surrounded by bowling pins. Born Edward Dean Tackett Jr. on August 7, 1992, in Huntington, Indiana, he was practically raised in a bowling alley. His father, Ed Tackett, was a professional bowler who later owned Oak Lanes in Huntington and later helped the family with EZ Bowl in nearby Bluffton. His maternal grandfather, Alex Smart, is in the Knights of Columbus International Bowling Hall of Fame. Bowling wasn’t just a hobby in the Tackett household—it was a way of life.
EJ started rolling a ball down the lanes before he was even in preschool. By the time he reached high school at Huntington North, he was already a standout. As a sophomore in 2009, he won the Indiana state high school individual bowling championship and the state youth title. He also helped his team win the state title in 2011. Outside the lanes, he was an All-State golfer and even attended Purdue University Fort Wayne, where he continued playing golf. But bowling always pulled him back.
Career Journey and Major Achievements
EJ Tackett turned pro and joined the PBA in 2012. He wasted no time making an impact, earning PBA Rookie of the Year honors that season. His first Tour win came in 2015 at the Lubbock Sports Open, and things really took off from there.
In 2016, at just 24 years old, he won four titles—including his first major at the PBA World Championship—and claimed his first Chris Schenkel PBA Player of the Year award. That victory, captured live on television, became a defining moment when he celebrated by hugging his father on the approach.
Tackett’s style sets him apart. Nicknamed the “Unicorn” by fans and analysts, he delivers one-handed, thumb-in shots with RPM rates that rival two-handed bowlers. His power, precision, and ability to adapt to any lane condition have made him nearly unstoppable in recent years.
Some career highlights include:
- Completing the PBA Triple Crown in 2023 (winning the World Championship, U.S. Open, and Tournament of Champions)
- Winning the PBA World Championship three years in a row (2023–2025)
- Earning four Player of the Year awards (2016, 2023, 2024, and 2025)
- Surpassing $2.38 million in official PBA career earnings
As of 2025–2026, he has 27 PBA Tour titles (10th all-time) and seven major championships. He also became the first player in PBA history to cash over $400,000 in a single season more than once.
Personal Life and Relationships
EJ Tackett married fellow bowler Natalie Goodman in 2019. Natalie, a former state champion and Junior Team USA member who won the 2024 USBC Indiana Queens championship, is sponsored by MOTIV Bowling just like EJ. The couple lives in Bluffton, Indiana, where they own EZ Bowl, a modern bowling center that has even hosted PBA events.
They have a young son named Tripp. Family is clearly at the center of EJ’s life—he often credits his parents and wife for keeping him grounded amid the travel and pressure of the Tour. EJ’s younger brother, Zac Tackett, also competes on the PBA Tour, making bowling a true family affair.
Off the lanes, EJ enjoys golf (he was a standout junior golfer) and stays active in philanthropy. He and Natalie have raised money for epilepsy awareness in support of Zac, who lives with the condition.
Net Worth and Income Breakdown
EJ Tackett’s net worth is estimated at $5 million as of 2026.
This figure comes from several reliable income streams:
- PBA prize money: Over $2.38 million in official Tour earnings, with multiple seasons exceeding $400,000
- Sponsorships and endorsements: Long-term deal with MOTIV Bowling (signed a 10-year extension in 2020), plus partnerships with Dexter shoes, JOPO Grips, and other brands
- Business ventures: Ownership of EZ Bowl bowling center in Bluffton
- Appearances, merchandise, and investments: Signature bowling balls and fan merchandise add to his income
Unlike many athletes, Tackett built his wealth steadily through consistent performance rather than one massive contract. Experts note that his earnings, combined with smart sponsorship choices and business ownership, have made him one of the highest-earning bowlers of his generation. All net worth figures are estimates based on public career earnings and industry reports.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- EJ earned the nickname “Squirrel” early in his career (though he’s more widely known today as the Unicorn for his rare one-handed power style).
- He once set PBA records by advancing to the championship round in six straight title events.
- He’s only the fifth player in history to win Player of the Year in three consecutive seasons.
- EJ and Natalie’s son Tripp is already growing up around bowling—just like his dad did.
Influence and Legacy
EJ Tackett has helped bring new attention to professional bowling. His dramatic style, clutch performances, and approachable personality have drawn younger fans to the sport. He’s proof that you don’t need to be a household name to build a lasting career and substantial fortune in a niche sport.
Through his success, family values, and community involvement, Tackett continues to inspire the next generation of bowlers. Whether he’s competing for another title or spending time at EZ Bowl with his wife and son, EJ remains one of the most respected and exciting athletes in bowling today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EJ Tackett’s net worth?
EJ Tackett’s net worth is estimated at $5 million as of 2026, built through PBA prize money, sponsorships, and business ownership.
How did EJ Tackett become famous?
He burst onto the scene as PBA Rookie of the Year in 2012–13 and won his first major title at age 24 in 2016. His high-rev one-handed style and multiple Player of the Year awards made him a star.
What are EJ Tackett’s biggest achievements?
He has 27 PBA titles (including 7 majors), completed the Triple Crown, won four Player of the Year awards, and earned over $2.38 million in career prize money.
Where is EJ Tackett now?
He continues to compete on the PBA Tour, lives in Bluffton, Indiana, with his wife Natalie and son Tripp, and co-owns EZ Bowl.
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