The Spirit of the Golden 8 Ball Lives On at Metro Sportz Bar
For decades, the Golden 8 Ball stood as a beacon for billiards enthusiasts in Phoenix, Arizona,
celebrated as the largest pool hall in the United States with 40 tables spread over
16,800 square feet. Though it closed in the mid-1990s, its legacy and spirit live on at
Metro Sportz Bar—a modern hub for billiards that proudly continues many of the Golden 8 Ball’s
beloved traditions.
A Legacy of Legends
The Golden 8 Ball was known for attracting billiards greats like Ronnie Allen,
CJ Wiley, and Danny Diliberto. Today, that same competitive energy is alive
and well at Metro Sportz Bar. Renowned players such as Scott “The Freezer” Frost,
Mitch Ellerman, Joven Bustamante, and Nick DeLeon
frequent the bar, keeping the spirit of high-stakes play alive in Phoenix.
Frost even offers private lessons, giving both beginners and seasoned players a chance to learn from a
world-class pro. It’s a unique opportunity to witness the continuity of the Golden 8 Ball’s
legendary status into the modern era.
League Play: Building Community
One of the Golden 8 Ball’s defining features was its sense of community. Metro Sportz Bar
carries that torch through league play, organized by Todd Rowitz:
- League Nights: Held on Monday and Tuesday evenings, featuring 8-ball and 9-ball formats.
- Team Structure: Choose between 3-person or 5-person teams to find the perfect match for your skill level.
- Welcoming Atmosphere: Whether you’re a competitive veteran or a curious novice, you’ll find a supportive environment to grow your game.
This inclusive approach to billiards mirrors the Golden 8 Ball’s original mission: bringing people together
over a shared passion for pool.
Top-Notch Equipment
Metro Sportz Bar spares no expense in delivering a professional-grade experience. The venue features
Diamond tables, Littman LED lighting, and Simonis cloth—
the very best in the industry. As operations manager Robert Pamiroyan explains:
“When pros travel, they look for Diamond tables. That’s what we have here.”
This commitment to quality ensures that every game at Metro Sportz Bar feels like a professional match,
echoing the high-caliber play the Golden 8 Ball was famous for.
A Welcoming Atmosphere for Everyone
While the bar is a magnet for professional players, Metro Sportz Bar never loses sight of its
broad appeal. Much like the Golden 8 Ball, it embraces players of all levels and backgrounds. Plans to introduce
dart leagues further expand the bar’s role as a community hub where people can gather, compete, and
have fun.
The Golden 8 Ball Legacy Continues
By blending competitive play, professional-grade equipment, and an open-door ethos, Metro Sportz Bar has become
the spiritual successor to the Golden 8 Ball. Come visit, join a league, or book a lesson with
Scott “The Freezer” Frost. Relive the magic of Phoenix’s most famous pool hall and be part of
shaping the future of billiards.
Have memories of the Golden 8 Ball? Share your stories and photos on our Facebook page:
Golden 8 Ball Project.
Help us honor the past while building a vibrant billiards community for the next generation.