2025 HOF CLASS

The Texas Billiards Hall of Fame is proud to announce the induction of four legendary figures into its 2025 class: Vivian Villarreal, CJ Wiley, U.J. Puckett, and Richard Black. These individuals represent the very best of billiards in Texas, with remarkable contributions that span competition, craftsmanship, mentorship, and cultural impact. The official induction ceremony and banquet will take place on September 2, 2025, at the Wingate Conference Center in Round Rock, Texas. Tickets are now available at www.halloftexas.com.

“This is an incredible class of inductees—each of whom has left an indelible mark on billiards in Texas,” said Kevin Welling, Chairman of the Texas Billiards Hall of Fame. “From a pioneering woman champion to a master hustler and mentor, a legendary poolroom icon, and one of the greatest custom cue makers in history—this class touches every corner of the sport.”

Vivian Villarreal—widely known as “The Texas Tornado”—was a dominant force on the professional circuit during the 1990s. Earning the world No. 1 ranking in women’s pool, she captured numerous titles, including the prestigious ESPN World Open 9-Ball Championship. Beyond her achievements on the table, Villarreal has also made significant contributions to the community through her philanthropic work with the Tornado Foundation and Vivian’s Kidz, organizations dedicated to empowering youth and supporting charitable causes.

CJ Wiley, a Dallas native and former road hustler turned world champion, is celebrated as one of the greatest money players of the 20th century. His reputation as a fierce competitor was cemented with a Mosconi Cup victory and continued through his work as a coach and educator. Wiley now shares his deep knowledge of the game through his platform Mastering Pocket Billiards, blending elite play, strategy, and mentorship to shape the next generation of players.

U.J. Puckett remains a revered name in pool folklore. A colorful and commanding presence in poolrooms across Texas and beyond, Puckett was a 1960 national nine-ball champion and a one-pocket legend. Known for his booming voice and charismatic personality, he embodied the spirit of the sport and became a cultural icon. To this day, his legacy lives on through stories, memories, and tributes at events like the Texas Open 9-Ball.

Richard Black, a master cue maker originally from Missouri who made Texas his home in the 1960s, redefined what it means to craft a pool cue. Famed for his intricate designs and unmatched craftsmanship, Black’s cues—such as the legendary Gothic Knight—have been displayed in museums and wielded by champions like Steve Mizerak and Ewa Mataya Laurance. More than a craftsman, Black is revered as a mentor and artist whose contributions elevated cue making to fine art.

The 2025 inductees join an elite group that includes celebrated figures such as Jeremy Jones, Belinda Calhoun, and Bob Vanover, as the Hall of Fame continues to build one of the sport’s most prestigious legacies.

“This is just the beginning,” added Paul Guernsey, Treasurer of the Texas Billiards Hall of Fame. “We're planning tournaments, youth camps, and charitable projects to expand the Hall’s influence and preserve the legacy of Texas pool. We invite all lovers of the game to become members and support the future of the sport.”