George Breedlove: The Flamethrower Legend

George Breedlove, nicknamed “The Flamethrower,” is a professional pool player born in 1966. He won the 1994 Lexington All-Star Championship, finished third at the World Championship, and earned over 100 regional tournament victories during his career.

The crack of balls breaking across a pool table can sound like thunder. For George Breedlove, that sound became the soundtrack to a remarkable career in professional billiards. Known across pool halls and tournaments as “The Flamethrower,” Breedlove built his reputation on speed, precision, and an aggressive playing style that left opponents scrambling to keep up.

Born on June 27, 1966, Breedlove joined the professional circuit at age 26 and quickly proved that talent combined with patience creates champions. His story shows how dedication to craft and smart career decisions can turn a passion into lasting success.

This article explores the life and career of George Breedlove, from his breakthrough achievements in the 1990s to his marriage with pool legend Jeanette Lee, his business ventures, and his continued presence in competitive pool today.

Early Life and Path to Professional Pool

George Breedlove was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1966. Unlike many professional players who turn pro in their early twenties, Breedlove took his time. He spent years developing his skills before making the jump to professional competition.

The details of his early training remain largely private. Breedlove has kept much of his personal life away from public attention. What is clear is that he showed natural talent early on. His ability to read angles and execute difficult shots became evident as he practiced in local venues.

He developed an aggressive, fast-paced style during these formative years. This approach would later earn him his famous nickname and set him apart from more cautious players. Mental toughness became as important as physical skill in his development.

At 26, Breedlove made the decision to join the professional tour. This was later than many of his peers. But his patience proved wise. He arrived ready to compete at the highest level.

The Birth of “The Flamethrower”

Breedlove’s nickname came from the way he played. One fellow professional described his style, noting how he could demoralize weaker players by running out quickly and decisively, winning games before opponents could react.

His approach was straightforward. Take calculated risks. Play with confidence. Clear tables quickly. While other players took careful, measured shots, Breedlove attacked the table with speed and precision.

The nickname stuck because it captured his essence as a player. He didn’t just beat opponents. He overwhelmed them. His rapid-fire play style made him one of the most exciting players to watch during the 1990s.

Championship Success and Career Highlights

The year 1994 marked a breakthrough for Breedlove, as he won the Lexington All-Star Championship and secured third place at the World Championship. These achievements established him among pool’s elite players.

The World Championship third-place finish was particularly significant. Competing against the best players worldwide, Breedlove proved his aggressive style could succeed at the highest level. This performance brought him national recognition and respect from peers.

Throughout his career, Breedlove accumulated impressive statistics:

Achievement	Details
Career Start	1992 (age 26)
Lexington All-Star Championship	1994
World Championship	3rd Place, 1994
Regional Tournament Wins	Over 100
ESPN Appearances	Multiple matches
Peak Ranking	Top 10 on PCA Tour

His tournament earnings show consistent success, with $29,600 earned in 2007 alone, placing him 42nd on the money leaderboard that year. This consistency demonstrated his ability to perform across various competitive environments.

Regional wins were crucial for building reputation and income in professional pool. Breedlove’s 100-plus regional victories showed he could win anywhere, against anyone.

The International Pool Tour Era

In 2006, professional pool saw the launch of the International Pool Tour (IPT), a venture promising million-dollar purses and mainstream attention. Breedlove earned one of two IPT tour cards at a qualifier in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, defeating Karl Boyes to secure his spot.

He joined a 150-player tour that included some of pool’s biggest names. The IPT represented pool’s attempt to reach mainstream audiences through big money and television coverage.

Reports indicate that until winning the IPT qualification, Breedlove played only two events per year and never practiced. This unusual approach highlighted his confidence in natural ability.

The IPT eventually folded, but Breedlove’s participation showed he could still compete with the world’s best players when he chose to enter tournaments.

Marriage to Jeanette Lee: Pool’s Power Couple

George Breedlove married WPBA player Jeanette “The Black Widow” Lee in a Korean-American ceremony in early 1996. This union created one of professional pool’s most recognizable couples.

Jeanette Lee had already established herself as the world’s top female player by this time. Her aggressive style and charismatic personality made her pool’s most marketable star. The marriage brought together two elite talents.

Both players were at career peaks during the mid-1990s. Their combined success brought significant attention to professional billiards. They supported each other’s careers while building a family.

Together they raised six children during their marriage, including children from George’s previous relationship and children they had together. In 2004, the couple announced the adoption of Cheyenne Lee Breedlove.

Pool community members observed that being married to George helped Jeanette maintain top form during breaks from competition. Both players pushed each other to improve.

The couple has since separated, but their time together remains an important chapter in professional pool history.

Business Ventures and Work Ethic

Unlike many professional players who relied solely on tournament winnings, Breedlove built a successful business career. He focused on outdoor furniture manufacturing and sales, creating financial stability for his family.

Breedlove famously said he would play anyone in the world even, but only if they first spent a week working alongside him in his shop. This statement highlighted how physically demanding his day job was.

His business acumen set him apart from players who struggled financially between tournaments. The furniture business provided steady income while allowing him to compete selectively in pool events.

Many professional pool players face financial uncertainty. Tournament prize money can be unpredictable. Breedlove’s business interests provided the security most players lack.

His approach required careful time management. Balancing a physically demanding business with professional competition showed remarkable discipline. He made it work when others might have failed.

The pool community recognized him as a quality person beyond his playing ability, with one colleague noting his success in business after his competitive peak.

Playing Style and Technique

Breedlove’s playing style was his signature. He believed in attacking the table rather than playing defensively. His break was considered one of the best in the world during the late 1990s.

According to reports, he was a top ten ranked player on the PCA Tour during his peak years. This ranking reflected both his skill and consistency.

His cue ball control was exceptional. He could position balls for multiple shots ahead, planning runs that cleared entire racks. This strategic thinking combined with his aggressive execution made him dangerous.

Stories from his playing days describe him showing up at pool rooms with a bent shaft, then proceeding to beat players for significant money. His skill overcame equipment limitations.

The mental game was equally important. Breedlove stayed focused under pressure. He could maintain composure during long matches and tense situations. This mental strength separated good players from champions.

Legacy and Continued Presence

Breedlove remains active in pool as an action player, appearing most years at Derby City Classic to match up with other competitors. The Derby City Classic is one of pool’s premier events, drawing top players from around the world.

His legacy extends beyond tournament victories. He showed that professional pool players could build successful lives outside the sport. His business success provided a model for other players struggling with financial stability.

The “Flamethrower” nickname remains recognizable decades after his competitive peak. Players and fans remember his exciting style and championship performances.

Former competitors and pool community members consistently describe him as a class act and person of integrity. His reputation for honesty and sportsmanship added to his legacy.

His influence on the game came through both his play and his character. Young players could see that success required more than just talent. It required discipline, business sense, and personal integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is George Breedlove’s nickname and why?

George Breedlove is called “The Flamethrower” because of his aggressive, fast-paced playing style that overwhelms opponents quickly.

What were George Breedlove’s biggest achievements?

He won the 1994 Lexington All-Star Championship, finished third at the 1994 World Championship, and accumulated over 100 regional tournament wins.

Is George Breedlove still married to Jeanette Lee?

No, George Breedlove and Jeanette “The Black Widow” Lee married in 1996 but have since separated.

What business does George Breedlove own?

George Breedlove built a successful outdoor furniture manufacturing and sales business, which provided financial stability throughout his pool career.

Does George Breedlove still play pool professionally?

While not competing on tour regularly, Breedlove remains active as an action player, often appearing at events like Derby City Classic.

Conclusion

George Breedlove’s story demonstrates how talent, work ethic, and smart decision-making create lasting success. From his breakthrough in 1994 to his continued presence in competitive pool today, he has remained relevant across three decades.

His aggressive playing style earned him the “Flamethrower” nickname and made him one of the most exciting players of the 1990s. His championship performances proved he belonged among pool’s elite. His business success showed players could build stable lives outside tournament winnings.

The combination of competitive excellence and personal integrity built Breedlove’s reputation. He showed that champions come in many forms. Some dedicate their entire lives to one pursuit. Others, like Breedlove, balance multiple careers while still competing at the highest level. His legacy reminds us that success in sports doesn’t require sacrificing everything else. With the right approach, you can excel in multiple areas and build something that lasts.