First Impressions
The Swag Show Me The Money Black shows up in a sharp black-and-red look, the kind of styling that already serves as a calling card for strong asymmetric balls at the big-name manufacturers. The ball pairs the asymmetric Contagion V2 core with a Dazzler 2 Pearl coverstock. The pearl cover comes sanded from the factory, which sets it clearly apart from the typical high-gloss polish of other pearl coverstocks. The ball generates a very strong, early and smooth hook with heavy forward roll and is designed to enter the hook phase relatively early.
Comparison
The ball motion closely resembles that of the original Show Me The Money Solid, even though many bowlers would have expected more backend power from a pearl ball. Compared to the Storm Holic, it covers a similar number of boards, though the Holic reacts considerably more angular while the Money Black runs smoother. For bowlers playing from the outside, or looking for a pearl to follow balls like the Yolo Rocks or Graffiti Pop, the Show Me The Money Black should be the logical next step. Its versatile behavior is reminiscent of the Motiv Jackal Ghost, which was likewise known for adapting to a range of lane conditions.
On the Lanes
The ball shows its strengths especially on higher-friction conditions and shines with flatter angles. Many bowlers carry it as their heavy oil ball, while others rate it more as a medium-light piece. After being scuffed with a 500 pad, it turns into a sport shot killer. The ball loves oil, reads smoothly and stays very predictable in controlling the pocket. On heavy oil it should be played straight, and as the lanes break down you can move left and open up the angles. If you're a two-hander with high ball speed, the ball can prove somewhat challenging, since the hook is less pronounced than expected.