USA Pickleball announced today that the 2025 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships will take place at Barnes Tennis Center in San Diego, California, November 15th-23rd.

Venue and location

The Barnes Tennis Center is located just five miles from San Diego International Airport and less than fifteen minutes from downtown San Diego. The venue hosts 19 dedicated pickleball courts and 23 hard court tennis courts, which will be temporarily converted to pickleball for this historic event.

(p.s if you're new here, feel welcome to use our employee discount "thedink" on Midwest Racquet Sports and even stack it on clearance items for extra savings)

“We are thrilled to welcome the Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships to Barnes Tennis Center in 2025,” said Barnes Tennis Center COO Jesse Steinberg. “This is an incredible opportunity for San Diego to shine as a premier destination for the sport, and we can’t wait for players and fans from across the country to experience everything our city has to offer. With our award-winning facility, we are committed to providing an exceptional experience for both athletes and visitors, making this a truly memorable event in America’s Finest City.”

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This year’s Nationals will also feature community initiatives through USA Pickleball’s charitable arm, USA Pickleball Serves, with more details on specific events to follow.

“We are excited that the great team at USA Pickleball has chosen San Diego and the Barnes Tennis Center as the site for the 2025 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships,” said Mark Neville, CEO of Sports San Diego. “We can’t wait to roll out the red carpet for pickleball players from all around the country who will be filling hotel rooms and making an impact on this beautiful city.  They will most assuredly have a wonderful experience here in San Diego.”

Building on last year’s success

Last year, the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships took place at the Arizona Athletic Grounds, in Mesa, Arizona. Those Championships drew over 2,600 athletes from 47 states and 13 countries, along with more than 10,000 spectators. Last year’s event generated an estimated $3.6 million in economic impact for Mesa. The San Diego event will be looking to grow those numbers even more in 2025.

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"As the pinnacle tournament in our sport, the 2025 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships in San Diego will feature elite-level competition, with only the most skilled players qualifying to participate in this prestigious tournament. The Barnes Tennis Center will provide an exceptional backdrop, offering a dynamic atmosphere for both participants and spectators alike,” said USA Pickleball CEO Mike Nealy. “This year marks the 17th year of this tournament, and as the longest-standing and only National Championships in Pickleball, we are committed to enhancing the experience for all involved while continuing to deliver a world-class event. We are thrilled to honor the passion and talent within the pickleball community in San Diego.”

Retail and Broadcast Partner 

USA Pickleball is excited to welcome back QVC as the Exclusive Retail and Broadcast Partner for the 2025 Biofreeze USAP National Championships. Additionally, fans can watch all the action on QVC+ and HSN+, the official streaming destination, providing fans with unparalleled access to this year’s Nationals in San Diego.

If you're curious, here is our top viewed article in 2025 thus far about a new high tech pickleball: link

You might already know pickleball’s been quietly growing overseas — but based on the latest data, that growth is now anything but quiet.

England alone boasts an estimated 40,000 players, with UK-wide numbers likely even higher when factoring in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

And that number is climbing fast.

According to Pickleball England, membership has grown by 65% over the past year—a staggering jump that mirrors what we’ve seen in our own back yard over the past couple of years.

The reason?

The same magic formula that made the sport blow up in the States: accessibility, fun, and community.

(p.s if you're new here, feel welcome to use our employee discount "thedink" on Midwest Racquet Sports and even stack it on clearance items for extra savings)

A Sport for All (British) Ages

In a recent Sky News segment, two young players—Ollie and Emerson—offered a glimpse into what the next wave of UK pickleball looks like..

Ollie picked up a paddle just a year ago after getting one as a Christmas gift. He now trains weekly and favors singles play. (“Probably singles, cuz I can’t blame my partner,” he quipped.)

Emerson has been at it for three years and now hits the court four to five times a week. “Every time I go and play, I see people of all ages,” she said. “My whole family plays—my dad, my mom, my brother.”

That family-first, community-driven culture? It’s clearly not exclusive to North America. From youth players to retirees, pickleball in the UK is thriving because everyone feels welcome on the court.

Report: Pickleball Participation Surges to Nearly 20 Million in 2024

For the fourth consecutive year, pickleball remains America’s fastest-growing sport, and the numbers behind its meteoric rise are nothing short of historic.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

UK vs. The World

While the U.S. still leads the global scene, and countries like Canada and Australia aren’t far behind, the UK is quickly becoming Europe’s pickleball powerhouse.

In 2020, there were roughly 12,000 players across all of Europe. Now, England alone has more than triple that number. Other countries like Spain, France, and Germany are slowly catching on, but the UK is clearly setting the pace.

The best part? Much of the UK’s growth is organic—driven by local leisure centers, school clubs, and grassroots enthusiasm. And based on the interviews with players like Ollie and Emerson, the next generation isn’t just picking up the game—they’re running with it.

PicklePod: How America Gave the World Pickleball Fever

Tom Webb, CMO of the APP Tour, joined Zane and Thomas this week on the PicklePod to discuss global pickleball, how pickleball viewership can grow, and why the APP doesn’t believe it’s competing with anyone.

The Dink PickleballThe Dink Media Team

Olympic Dreams, “Hot Dog” Tricks, and What’s Next

When asked if pickleball should be in the Olympics, both kids were all in. Emerson even has a signature shot—“the hot dog”—though the details remain mysterious. (We’d love a demo.)

Their competitive spirit is there, but so is the heart. “If anyone’s ever nervous to play,” Emerson said, “just turn up at a club. Everyone’s so sociable and so nice. They always let you play.”

That may be the most telling sign of the sport’s momentum: it’s still about joy. Still about community. Still about people of all skill levels showing up and having fun.

And in the UK, that spirit is spreading fast.

Pickleball is about to go big—really big—on Saturday, April 12, as Life Time hosts the first-ever Agassi Open Play Day, bringing tens of thousands of players together across North America for one massive, unified celebration of the sport.

Timed for National Pickleball Month, the event will feature simultaneous open play from 12–3 p.m. EST at all Life Time clubs, which now boast 775 dedicated pickleball courts across the U.S. and Canada.

It’s the latest move from Life Time in their bid to lead the pickleball charge—and they're making a serious statement.

“We set out in 2021 to become the leader in pickleball,” said RJ Singh, Life Time’s Chief Digital Officer and head of racquet sports. “Now, we’re taking it even further, uniting players of all levels in a nationwide event to celebrate the sport.”

(p.s if you're new here, feel welcome to use our employee discount "thedink" on Midwest Racquet Sports and even stack it on clearance items for extra savings)

Agassi Headlines the Main Event in Vegas

The spotlight will shine brightest at Life Time Green Valley in Henderson, Nevada, where tennis legend Andre Agassi—Chair of Life Time’s Pickleball and Tennis Board—will hit the court alongside pros, influencers, and members starting at 9 a.m. PST.

Players attending in person will get a shot at winning prizes and even rallying with the stars. Proceeds from the $60 event fee benefit the Life Time Foundation, supporting youth nutrition, fitness, and environmental efforts.

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What Else Is Happening?

All Life Time members can register via the Life Time app. Whether you're in Vegas or Vermont, anyone participating will be entered to win the newly released Agassi x JOOLA Pro paddle. (And even if you don’t win one you can use code "thedink10" to save 10% on Joola)

Plus, Life Time continues its deep investment in the sport with:

• The LT Ultimate Pickleball, a patent-pending ball built for consistent speed and durability
• Partnerships with JOOLA and lululemon for premium gear and apparel
• A free video series with Ben and Collin Johns, available on the Life Time app

Report: Pickleball Participation Surges to Nearly 20 Million in 2024

For the fourth consecutive year, pickleball remains America’s fastest-growing sport, and the numbers behind its meteoric rise are nothing short of historic.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

Why It Matters

Pickleball is no longer just growing—it’s thriving. With 48.3 million players across North America, events like this show how far the game has come—and where it’s headed.

Life Time’s initiative doesn’t just celebrate pickleball’s popularity; it creates space for new players to get involved and for veterans to rally around a shared love of the game.

And let’s be honest—how many chances do you get to say you were part of the biggest pickleball event on the continent?

This past weekend, RacquetX took over the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami, Florida. The conference brought together leading industry experts from around the globe to discuss topics related to all racquet sports.

One topic, in particular, caught my eye.

Pickleball at a Crossroads: Navigating the Wild West of Equipment, Standards, and Regulations

This panel took place on Sunday, March 23rd, from 11-11:45am on the Main Stage.

It involved six panelists:

Jason Aspes - President - United Pickleball Association of America (UPA-A)

Tom Barnes - Co-Owner & Director of R&D and LABS - Selkirk Sport

Nick Bicanic - CEO - Reload Pickleball

Rafael Filippini - Founder & CEO - Gearbox Sports

Gordon Kaye - Chief Experience Officer - JOOLA

Carl Schmits - Chief Technology Officer & Director of Manufacturing and Paddle Testing - USA Pickleball

Bicanic played the role of moderator, and there was a lively discussion for the full 45 minutes.

To see the entire 45 minute session, click here. Thanks to Today in Pickleball for posting the video to YouTube.

(p.s if you're new to the site feel welcome to use our employee discount "thedink" on Midwest Racquet Sports and even stack it on clearance items for extra savings)

Here are some snippets and select quotes of my biggest takeaways from the panel discussion. 

Dueling governing bodies in the sport

The United Pickleball Association of America (UPA-A) was announced last year as "the global pickleball governing body under the United Pickleball Association to protect, grow and champion the sport at all levels."

This was a break away from USA Pickleball as the only national governing body.

In practice, the UPA-A governs play at the professional level while USAP sets the standards at the amateur and recreational levels.

Major League Pickleball & PPA Tour Announce USA Pickleball Competitor, New Governing Body

The United Pickleball Association announced that it has severed ties with USA Pickleball and will create its own governing body, which will oversee rules, regulations and equipment standards, among other things.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

Bicanic (Reload Pickleball and the moderator of the panel): "Do you feel there are two competing governing bodies in the sport, and why do you think that might be?"

Schmits (USAP): "The short answer is, there is only one national governing body (USA Pickleball). In general terms, we support the 20+ million players that are out there today."

Barnes (Selkirk): "It is clear to me, in my opinion, it’s (UPA-A) just the revenue stream. It’s a for-profit entity. It’s just there to make money, and it’s just there to assist the bottom line of the UPA and that calls into question extreme concerns for us." (p.s use code "inf-thedink" on Selkirk to get a free giftcard at checkout)

Filippini (Gearbox): "I don’t recognize two. I’ll be straight up with that. Because on the pro side, I think that they have their organization, and they can run and control the players as they want, and I completely respect that. But as a sport, I personally recognize the USAP as the organization that should lead the amateur side of the sport."

Kaye (JOOLA): "As a matter of principle, I don't have an issue with there being both a USAP standard and a UPA standard. I think we could argue about who’s a governing body and who’s not a governing body all day. I just don't fundamentally have an issue with the idea that there’s a pro standard and there’s a wider standard. 

"I come from a background of professional sports. This is quite standard. In Major League Baseball, the Major League Baseball standard for bats is different than Minor League Baseball, it’s different than college baseball, it’s different than high school baseball. This is not uncommon for the space that we work in."

USA Pickleball Announces New Paddle Testing Standards as Industry Reaches a Boiling Point

USA Pickleball introduced a new standard test for power in pickleball paddles: the Paddle/Ball Coefficient of Restitution (PBCoR) test. We explain how it works and the state of paddle testing in the industry.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

Confusion in the market and professional play versus amateur play

Moving on from the governing body conversation, Bicanic wanted to touch on pro play vs. amateur play. According to the UPA-A website, "The UPA-A was established to regulate the game of pickleball at the professional level."

One dichotomy came up more than once: If the paddle standards are different between the pros and amateurs – UPA-A allows for more grit (or spin potential) than USAP – why are UPA-A-certified paddles being sold to amateurs?

Bicanic: "How can we claim this is just about the professional game when in reality these paddles, as some people have already alluded to, will immediately make their way into the amateur hands?"

Kaye: "The reality is that a lot of people want to play with what the pros play with." 

Bicanic: "By that logic, this standard is not about pro play, this is about selling paddles."

Aspes (UPA-A): "If the (UPA-A) limits were higher, if we allowed faster play, because everyone is after more power. We have brought the power down below USAP’s level. If it were higher, I would absolutely agree with that."

To add a little more context to the Aspes quote, Bicanic was saying that the UPA-A is not about really regulating the pro game, but more about selling paddles. Aspes' response was basically saying that because the UPA-A certification level is stricter than the USAP's, this cannot be the case.

Two different standards for certifying paddles

The UPA-A and USAP have two differing certification protocols, which can be confusing for amateur players and difficult for manufacturers to navigate.

Breaking Down the UPA-A 2025 Pickleball Paddle Guidelines

The United Pickleball Association of America (UPA-A) has announced pivotal updates to paddle regulations, effective September 1, 2025, aimed at ensuring fairness and consistency in professional gameplay. With the recent formation of the UPA-A, players have been anxious to see how the organization would handle the issues related to paddle

The Dink PickleballLuke Burton

Bicanic: "Carl, do you think these two types of standards (USAP and UPA-A) can coexist, or does one of them need to go away?"

Schmits: "I think they should merge, frankly. Having two standards or two specifications again, I will reiterate the fragmentation comment I made earlier. There's really no reason from a technical standpoint that we couldn't merge. They're very close."

Aspes: "I think we could easily get to the same standard because it’s not that big of a difference. Right now there are two standards because we (UPA-A) are only dealing with the pro game."

UPA-A structure and independence

The structure, independence, and for-profit status of the UPA-A has been called into question by Tom Barnes, of Selkirk, in several instances, including appearances on the Pickleball Studio podcast and the JohnKew podcast.

Bicanic: "The perception of USA Pickleball is that it is an independent organization. The perception of the UPA-A is that it’s not independent from the UPA. Could you comment on who owns and controls the UPA-A?"

Aspes: "From an ownership organization, we fall under the UPA. From an organizational standpoint, I don’t report to anybody, I report to the Board."

Barnes: "You don’t report to Connor (Pardoe, President of the UPA)?"

Aspes: "No, I do not."

Barnes: "That’s clearly not true, but you can say that."

Aspes: "Are you telling me I’m a liar?" 

(This is where there was a little discourse and Bicancic brought the conversation back to the UPA-A structure and independence.)

Aspes: "I think that it's important that we are independent. I feel very good about the way we act internally."

"I recognize that we need to move towards an independence and being a non-profit, and I think that will bring a lot of confidence in the system. We are happy to move towards that. We said that we would do that this year, and we are actively taking steps to do so."

UPA-A to Use ‘Destructive Testing’ to Level the Pro Playing Field in 2025

The UPA-A will use “destructive testing” to determine whether or not a paddle can be used in pro pickleball events starting in 2025. Find out what that test is and how it could shape the PPA and MLP.

The Dink PickleballAlex E. Weaver

Multiple standards from manufacturer's perspective

JOOLA was the first manufacturer to receive the interim UPA-A certification and has paddles that are co-certified by both USA Pickleball and the UPA-A. Bicanic wanted to know Gordon Kaye's perspective on both paddle certification standards toward the end of the panel. (p.s use code "thedink10" to save 10% on Joola)

Bicanic: "Gordon (Kaye), as an organization that has chosen to release paddles to multiple different standards… would you prefer to only have one organization and one set of standards?"

Kaye: "I think everyone would. That’s the goal here: convergence. There's no question, as a manufacturer you want to manufacture only to one standard.

I think having one global standard is absolutely the right thing for everyone in this room. The preference is to have these two guys (Aspes and Schmits) work it out."

Bicanic: "Two men enter - one man leaves."

Kaye: "No, two men enter - twenty million people benefit."

The final word

Ultimately, it was Barnes who was given the last word.

Tom Barnes: "Our (Selkirk) major concern is twenty years from now. One goal of my brothers and I before die, is we want to see our paddles in the Olympics. We want to see pickleball in the Olympics, let's say. We cannot do that with the current fragmentation of standards.

"We don't want it to go in the ways of racquetball and be crushed via conflicts of interest and infighting and regulatory capture. We have to unify and go in one direction. That cannot happen if the bottom line of the investor and intention of the investor, is just to make money by whatever means necessary - that will crush our sport. That is an existential threat to our sport.

"The biggest threat is private interests putting the industry in the wrong direction. That is the biggest threat we face. Fragmentation of standards is one symptom of that."

For most of us, pickleball is the thing we do when we're not working. Evenings, weekends, early mornings ... work first, then play.

A new facility called Forum, located in Delano, about 30 minutes outside of Minneapolis, is looking to flip the script by bringing the best of all worlds under one roof.

The 20,000-square-foot facility features an array of amenities, from fitness centers to a health club, private office space and golf simulators. There's even a 10-person sauna room.

But it's the four professional-grade pickleball courts that caught our eye.

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The courts are equipped with live scoring and instant replay features, plus elevated viewing areas so your coworkers can critique your play while they catch up on emails.

(p.s save ~58% on sale apparel by using The Dink's employee code "thedink" at checkout from Midwest Racquet Sports. Men's link. Women's link)

"With per-court pricing, it’s easy to split the cost—making it one of the most affordable ways to play, train, or unwind," the brand touts. "Whether you’re here for a quick match or a full day of activity, your time at Forum will be an experience you won’t forget!"

The pay-as-you-go pricing model mean you can mix and match amenities to your liking depending on the day. Everything is bookable via an app, of course.

Here's to hoping this is a concept that catches on. A few hours of pickleball plus a nice sauna sessions sounds pretty good to us.

Images via Forum Delano.

This event represents the highest level of amateur competition outside the professional circuit, drawing the very best talent from across the nation and earning recognition on the DUPR leaderboard.

Six countries will also be sending the best of the best to compete at the US National Championships, making this a global competition for the best amateur players.

Players at this event will not only compete for glory but will also have a shot at part of the $100,000 in prize money.

Want the latest on the Dink Minor League Pickleball? Then subscribe to our free newsletter. We send the latest news, tips, and highlights for free each week.

The National Stage for Future Pros

Throughout the year, thousands of amateur players across the country compete in Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) events, including state championships and regional showdowns.

Only the elite—those who top the national DUPR leaderboard or secure dream tickets—earn the honor of competing at Nationals.

Many current professional pickleball stars, including Jack Munro, Connor Garnett, Kate Fahey, and others, started their impressive careers in MiLP, highlighting the championship’s significance as a gateway to pro success.

Meet a Few of the Pros Who Got Their Start in The Dink Minor League Pickleball

Get inspired by this list of pro players who’ve come up through The Dink Minor League Pickleball.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

Qualifying: Points, Dream Tickets, and the National Leaderboard

Players earn leaderboard points based on their performance in local, state, and regional competitions. Those topping the leaderboard secure coveted spots in the championships.

Additionally, "Dream Tickets" are awarded to division winners at state and regional events, offering guaranteed entry.

Confirmed 2025 State Championships

• Oklahoma State Championship: April 25-27, Tulsa, OK
• Wisconsin State Championship: May 31-June 1, Lake Geneva, WI
• Colorado State Championship: May 31-June 7, Aurora, CO
• Arizona State Championship: August 9-10, Scottsdale, AZ
• Illinois State Championship: September 28, Loves Park, IL
• Delaware State Championship: October 4, Wilmington, DE

Confirmed 2025 Regional Showdowns

• Northeast Regional: May 17-18, Robbinsville TWP, NJ
• Midsouth Regional: June 28-29, McKinney, TX
• Midwest Regional: August 9, Kansas City, KS/MO
• Northwest Regional: August 22-24, Lake Stevens, WA
• West Coast Regional: September 6, San Francisco, CA
• Southeast Regional: September 27-28, Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Southwest Regional: October 11, Mesa, Arizona

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Experience Nationals Live or Online

Spectators can attend the championships for free, in person or online via The Dink YouTube channel. Interested businesses are invited to sponsor the 2025 championships, aligning their brand with one of pickleball's most prestigious amateur events. Contact us for sponsorship details.

The 2025 Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championships is more than just another event—it's an opportunity to witness and compete against the future stars of pickleball. Find your nearest Dink MiLP event at https://dupr.com/minor-league

As temperatures rise and players return to outdoor courts, one brand is stepping up to ensure you're not only ready to play—but dressed to win.

Meet MUEV, one of the first clothing brands dedicated exclusively to pickleball, designed with both performance and lifestyle in mind.

What sets MUEV apart? They’ve gone straight to the source—real pickleballers across the country—to understand what players truly need.

The result: a spring collection that blends style, function, and innovation, keeping players looking and feeling their best on and off the court.

On-court, Off-court, and Loungewear

MUEV’s four-tiered brand structure—on-court performance, off-court casual, lounge, and accessories—is built to support every stage of a player’s day, from the drive to the courts to post-match hangs.

At the heart of the line is a commitment to performance-driven design. MUEV has taken a sport-specific approach, recognizing that pickleball is uniquely lateral in movement, unlike running or cycling.

To support that, they’ve incorporated horizontal micro-perforations that optimize flexibility and motion. Their materials prioritize compression, breathability, and feather-light comfort, ensuring each piece performs as well as it looks.

Pickleball fashion is no longer just about what you wear on the court. MUEV embraces the full pickleball lifestyle—from early-morning match prep to après-play coffee runs. Their holistic approach ensures you look elevated every step of your journey.

With its spring line, MUEV isn’t just launching new apparel—they’re setting a new standard.

Some of Our Favorites

Grace Pleated Pant

These all-day comfy pants feature a wide-leg silhouette and perfectly placed pleats for a flattering fit. Available in black, white, and a playful spring shade: Pink Petal.

Get 20% Off with "TheDink"

Tulip Compression Short

Available in black, citron, and pink petal, these shorts have it all: a drawstring waistband, built-in compression liner, and two side pockets perfect for your pickleballs or personal essentials.

Get 20% Off with "TheDink"

Airy Twist Tank

Stay cool and stylish in the Airy Twist Tank—available in white, black, and pink petal. With elastic shoulder straps and moisture-wicking woven fabric, this tank keeps you dry and comfortable all day long.

Get 20% Off with "TheDink"

Flex Bonded Pocket Tee

Designed to keep you dry with moisture-wicking fabric, this tee also features zippered pockets for added convenience. The citron color adds a subtle pop that’s great for spring.

Get 20% Off with "TheDink"

Base Line Short 

These 6” inseam shorts are built for movement, with four-way stretch and a secure elastic waistband. Available in nine colors for a streamlined, versatile fit.

Get 20% Off with "TheDink"

Echelon Jogger

A go-to for both on and off the court, these joggers combine performance features with all-day comfort.

Get 20% Off with "TheDink"

Get 20% Off Sitewide with "TheDink"

The PPA Tour is back in Utah for an exciting week of pickleball. The Little Valley Pickleball Complex, in St. George, is hosting the tournament.

The Red Rock Open is a staple in pickleball. Utah is well known for being a hotbed for very good pickleball and has a rich history of hosting phenomenal tournaments.

Weather Outlook

Good news: There is no precipitation in the forecast in Utah. Winds may be a slight problem throughout the event, but will not be nearly as big of an issue as they were in Texas.

The other thing that will affect play in Utah is the altitude. At 2,860 feet above sea level, St. George is the highest altitude location on the 2025 PPA Tour. A higher altitude means the ball will be traveling fast. Especially from Friday through Sunday, expect players to be driving and crashing a ton. Players who adjust to the altitude the quickest will be in very good position to win.

Top Storylines 

New hybrid tournament format

The PPA Tour is trying out a new tournament format for the Red Rock Open. It is a hybrid between the traditional Open tournament draw and the Progressive draws that happen for Cups and Slams.

Format:

• Wednesday - Women’s and Men’s Singles through quarterfinals
• Thursday - Mixed Doubles through quarterfinals
• Friday - Women’s and Men’s Doubles through quarterfinals
• Saturday - Semi-finals in all five events
• Sunday - Championship Sunday

The Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open will feature a new tournament format that is sure to build excitement and highlight key storylines 💪

Who’s excited to watch the PPA Tour Pros compete in St George?! 🏜️ pic.twitter.com/EVXuHt9Yjm

— Carvana PPA Tour (@PPAtour) March 21, 2025

Missing players

This is an Open level event, so having players skip is not uncommon. However, there are quite a few notable players missing.

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Ben Johns, Anna Bright, Tyson McGuffin, Brooke Buckner, Collin Johns, and Zoey Wang are joining Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf on the JOOLA Legends Pickleball Tour, from March 26th - March 29th.

Additionally, Tina Pisnik, Kate Fahey, Jessie Irvine, and Gabe Tardio are all taking this event off.

(p.s 3/24/2025 save ~58% on clearance apparel by using The Dink's employee code "thedink" at checkout from Midwest Racquet Sports. Men's link. Women's link)

Championship Sunday is on FOX

This is the first time in 2025 that the PPA Tour will be on FOX. The exclusive two-hour window on Championship Sunday will be from 4:30pm - 6:30pm ET.

8 days away from one of the biggest moments in pickleball history 👀👏

Set your alarms and mark your calendars for Carvana Championship Sunday on FOX 💥

🗓️ March 30
⏰ 4:30pm - 6:30pm ET
📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/pNQALfPriP

— Carvana PPA Tour (@PPAtour) March 22, 2025

How to watch the Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open

Wednesday, March 26th - Women’s and Men’s Singles

• 1pm - 9pm ET - Championship Court - PickleballTV
• 1pm - 9pm ET - Grandstand Court - PickleballTV

Thursday, March 27th - Mixed Doubles

• 1pm - 9pm ET - Championship Court - PickleballTV
• 1pm - 9pm ET - Grandstand Court - PickleballTV

Friday, March 28th - Women’s and Men’s Doubles

• 1pm - 9pm ET - Championship Court - PickleballTV
• 1pm - 9pm ET - Grandstand Court - PickleballTV
• 6:30pm - 8:30pm ET - FS2 (Concurrently)

Saturday, March 29th - Semi-final Saturday

• 1pm - 9pm ET - Championship Court - PickleballTV
• 1pm - 9pm ET - Grandstand Court - Juniors and Collegiate Showcase - PickleballTV
• 9:30pm - 11:30pm ET - FS1 (Replays)

Sunday, March 30th - Championship Sunday

• 1pm - 4:30pm ET - Championship Court - Gold Medal Matches - PickleballTV
• 4:30pm - 6:30pm ET - Championship Court - Gold Medal Matches - FOX
• Noon - 4pm ET - Grandstand Court - Bronze Medal Matches - PickleballTV

Let’s get into the action.

Women’s Singles

Top Storylines

• This is probably the smallest field thus far on the PPA Tour in 2025, with Fahey and Buckner missing.
• Since the field is so small, some unsigned players have been moved to the main draw: (17) Lara Giltinan and (18) Jalina Ingram.
• Kaitlyn Christian, Parris Todd, and Catherine Parenteau are all on the opposite side of the bracket from ALW - which player is going to be able to step up to make Championship Sunday?

Prediction

• Semi-finalists: (1) Anna Leigh Waters, (3) Lea Jansen, (2) Kaitlyn Christian, and (4) Parris Todd
• Finals: Anna Leigh beats Parris Todd in the finals for her fifth title on the year

Men’s Singles

Top Storylines

• Recently signed UPA player (18) John Lucian Goins is now seeded correctly. He has wins over Ben Johns, Gabe Tardio, Dylan Frazier. We will see how well the 16-year-old can play, now that he is a known commodity.
• (3) Connor Garnett has yet to medal in 2025 and will most likely have to face off against arguably the hottest pickleball player in the world right now, (6) Christian Alshon, in the quarters.
• A great potential Round of 16 matchup could be between (4) Jaume Martinez Vich and (14) Zane Ford. The two SixZero sponsored athletes got into a heated argument after the last match they played together, but Zane said the beef was quickly squashed when he went on the PicklePod podcast recently.

Prediction

• Semi-finalists: (1) Federico Staksrud, (6) Christian Alshon, (2) Hunter Johnson, and (4) Jaume Martinez Vich
• Finals: Fed beats Christian in the semis on Saturday and then beats Hunter for the Championship

Mixed Doubles

Top Storylines

• With Ben Johns visiting Asia, Anna Leigh Waters decided to skip mixed doubles in Utah, so the field is wide open.
• There are some new partnerships for this event that are interesting:
  • (3) Etta Tuionetoa and Federico Staksrud
  • (4) Hurricane Tyra Black and James Ignatowich
  • (5) Rachel Rohrabacher and Hayden Patriquin
  • (6) Parris Todd and Dekel Bar
  • (9) Vivienne David and Dylan Frazier
• My favorite early round matchup to watch is the Round of 32 match between (13) Allyce Jones/Travis Rettenmaier and (20) Kaitlyn Christian/Jack Sock, if the 20 seed can beat the qualifier they face in the Round of 64.

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Prediction

• Semi-finalists: (1) Jorja & JW Johnson, (3) Etta Tuionetoa/Federico Staksrud, (2) Catherine Parenteau/Christian Alshon, and (5) Rachel Rohrabacher/Hayden Patriquin
• Finals: Catherine Parenteau and Christian Alshon earn their first gold together over the Johnson siblings

Women’s Doubles

Top Storylines

• With Anna Bright out for the JOOLA tour, (2) Rachel Rohrabacher is teamed up with Parris Todd.
• Local Utahns, (4) Allyce Jones/Etta Tuionetoa are teamed up in their home stomping grounds.
• (7) Mari Humberg and Meghan Dizon are teaming up for the first time and it is an interesting pairing because Dizon is replacing Humberg on the 5s this year.

Prediction

• Semi-finalists: (1) Catherine Parenteau/Anna Leigh Waters, (3) Jorja Johnson/Hurricane Tyra Black, (5) Lucy Kovalova/Lea Jansen, and (4) Allyce Jones/Etta Tuionetoa
• Finals: Catherine and Anna Leigh beat Lucy and Lea in the finals

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Men’s Doubles

Top Storylines

• (1) Hayden Patriquin and Federico Staksrud are teaming up again - the duo has won two gold medals together.
• New LA Mad Drops teammates, (8) Hunter Johnson and Quang Duong, are teaming up on the PPA Tour for the first time ever.
• (2) Andrei Daescu and Christian Alshon have both been on a tear recently. They won Tucson and Mesa - can they make it three gold medals on the year?

Prediction

• Semi-finalists: (1) Hayden Patriquin/Federico Staksrud, (4) CJ Klinger/JW Johnson, (2) Christian Alshon/Andrei Daescu, and (3) Dylan Frazier/Dekel Bar
• Finals: CJ Klinger and JW Johnson beat Alshon and Daescu in the finals

(p.s have you seen our top viewed article in 2025? Check out this pickleball)

Pickleball Skill Quiz

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Pickleball Skill Quiz

Pickleball is a game of finesse, strategy, and quick reflexes. Today, we dive into an advanced technique with none other than Jack Munro, a master of deception on the court.

Jack is here to teach us about one of his signature shots, the bait ball, and how it can help elevate your game by forcing opponents into hands battles they don’t expect.

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What Is a Bait Ball?

A bait ball is a carefully placed shot designed to lure your opponent into speeding up play while you remain fully prepared to counterattack. Essentially, it’s a deceptive ball that looks like an opportunity for your opponent but actually sets them up for failure.

Jack describes it as a lofted ball that tempts the opponent to attack, but since he anticipates the shot, he’s in a prime position to win the exchange.

The Mechanics of a Bait Ball

1. Lofting the Ball: The goal is to send a shot that appears attackable but isn’t quite high enough for a strong downward strike. This forces your opponent to flick up on their response.
2. Anticipation: Since you know your opponent will likely try to speed up, you can prepare in advance to counter their move.
3. Positioning: Placing yourself correctly to intercept the counterattack is key. Knowing the patterns of where your opponent’s shot is most likely to land will give you a huge advantage.

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Pro Breakdown of 4.5 Pickleball Match Strategy

For the first time, I am excited to review some pickleball gameplay. The video, originally posted on Reddit, features two solid 4.0/4.5 teams in what looks like competitive rec or tournament play. For the sake of anonymity, I will refer to the team closest to the camera

The Dink PickleballEric Roddy

Where to Place a Bait Ball

Jack highlights a few key locations where bait balls are most effective:

• Backhand Flick Zone: Many players prefer to speed up using a backhand flick. By giving them a slightly higher ball in this area, you can control their next move.
• Middle of the Court: Statistically, most players will direct their speed-up shots between two players in doubles play. Knowing this allows you and your partner to position accordingly.
• Near the Sidelines: When executed correctly, a bait ball placed near the sidelines forces opponents into difficult angles, limiting their offensive options.

Defending Against a Speed-Up

Jack explains that when defending a bait ball, players don’t usually have enough time to adjust for both forehand and backhand responses.

Instead, he advises sliding into position and preparing for a backhand counter.

By covering the middle and forcing the opponent to hit up on the ball, you can neutralize their attack.

Drilling Bait Balls Into Your Game

Want to start incorporating bait balls into your strategy? Here’s how:

• Drill Hand Speed: Train your reflexes so you’re ready to counter when an opponent falls for the bait.
• Practice Placement: Work on lofting the ball just high enough to tempt the opponent without giving them a clear putaway shot.
• Anticipate the Response: Learn to read where your opponent is most likely to send their counterattack so you can position yourself accordingly.

While the bait ball is an advanced technique, mastering it can give you a significant edge in pickleball.

As Jack demonstrates, it’s all about strategy, control, and anticipation. So next time you hit the court, consider adding the bait ball to your arsenal and watch how it disrupts your opponents’ rhythm.

For more in-depth strategy breakdowns, check out Jack Munro’s channel. Though, as mentioned, some might argue my content (Zane Navratil Pickleball) is just a bit better ... happy playing!

This is The Dink’s first update of the 2025 season PPA Points Race. 

What is The Race? Glad you asked.

The PPA Tour has a season long points race to see which players qualify for the PPA Finals, usually held in early December (location, date, and title sponsor yet to be announced for 2025). 

Qualification and Finals play

The top eight players/teams throughout the year qualify for The Finals. Here is an exact list of top players who are eligible to play in the finals:

• Top 8 women’s singles players
• Top 8 men’s singles players
• Top 16 women’s doubles players
• Top 16 men’s doubles players
• Top 8 women in mixed doubles
• Top 8 men in mixed doubles

You may be asking yourself, “why 16 in gender doubles and then eight in mixed doubles”? The point is to have eight total teams play in The Finals, and this format allows for that.

Once the tour figures out who the eligible players are, essentially a “draft" happens. The top seeded player gets to choose their partner, and then the next best seed gets to choose, and so on. The only small caveat to that rule is that in mixed doubles it still goes from best to worst seed, but the women get to pick their male counterpart.

The finals are then played round-robin style and then a playoff ensues, with winners named. For a full recap of the 2024 PPA CIBC Finals, held in San Clemente, California, check out our article.

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The PPA CIBC Finals Tournament Recap

The PPA CIBC Finals took place from Wednesday, 12/4/24 - Sunday, 12/8/24 and was the culmination of the 2024 PPA Season. Pool play followed by medal rounds highlighted the iconic tour finale in San Clemente, California.

The Dink PickleballErik Tice

Quick PPA Points Refresher

There are three different types of PPA Tour events - Slams, Cups, and Opens. The Slams are worth 2,000 PPA Points for the winners, Cups 1,500, and Opens are worth 1,000 PPA Points.

Here is a breakdown of points received for making it to that round.

Example: If I am playing in an Open tournament, and I make it to the quarterfinals of the mixed doubles event, but lose, my partner and I each earn 200 PPA Points.

Events thus far in 2025

There have been seven events thus far that count toward the 2025 PPA Race Points standings:

• Daytona Beach Open - this was played in late December, after the 2024 Finals, so the points earned in this event actually count toward 2025 PPA Points
• The Masters (Slam)
• Proton PPA Australia Open
• Proton PPA Tucson Open
• Carvana PPA Mesa Cup
• VEOLIA Cape Coral Open
• CIBC Texas Open

According to the PPA Tour calendar of events, there are 11 more tournaments to be played this year:

• Red Rock Open
• North Carolina Open
• VEOLIA Atlanta Pickleball Championships (Slam)
• Select Medical Orange County Cup
• VEOLIA Bristol Open
• VEOLIA Cincinnati Cup
• CIBC Toronto Open
• Fasenra Virginia Beach Cup
• VOELIA Lakeland Open 
• Rate Vegas Open
• Pickleball World Championships (Slam)

I do believe the PPA Tour is going to announce some additional second half of the year tournaments soon. If I had to guess, I assume two more stops (one more Slam) get added in the September/October timeframe. 

Overall, we are approximately 35-40% of the way through the 2025 season in terms of number of events held, and since there is a week off in play, this is a great time to provide an update.

Let’s get into the action.

Women’s Singles

Up until last week’s win, Anna Leigh was in second place on this list, because Kaitlyn Christian started the year off very hot, winning two golds and two silvers. Kaitlyn won Daytona and Australia.

Other storylines

Jorja Johnson and Lacy Schneemann actually played in the event last year as substitutes for Brooke Buckner and Salome Devidze. Neither Jorja nor Lacy currently have enough points to be top 16.

Andie Dikosavljevic and Somer Dalla Bonna both had good runs in singles in Australia, but since they are Australian, I see them sliding down this list, not moving up it.

My WAY too early prediction

Anna Leigh Waters, Kate Fahey, Kaitlyn Christian, Lea Jansen, Brooke Buckner, Parris Todd, Helena Jansen, and Catherine Parenteau.

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Men’s Singles

Federico has been the class of men’s singles for 15 months. Alshon just got his first two singles wins on tour in back to back events. Ben Johns is only in seventh place, but hasn’t played many singles events in 2025. Newcomer, Zane Ford, has also made his way into the top eight already.

Other storylines

Tyson McGuffin is in 5th place due to a couple of good finishes and a silver medal in PPA Australia. McGuffin could be ripe for a regression in singles, especially if the lingering injuries keep nagging up.

The men’s singles field has crazy parity, so I don’t expect to see anyone pulling away. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see any one of the top 15 in The Finals, come fall.

Two names that aren’t even in the top 16, but I think have a chance at cracking the top eight by the end of the year are Noe Khlif (17th) and JW Johnson (20th).

My WAY too early prediction

Federico Staksrud, Christian Alshon, Ben Johns, Hunter Johnson, Jaume Martinez Vich, Connor Garnett, Zane Ford, and Quang Duong.

Women’s Doubles

The top five are already locks in my book, barring an injury. These five aren’t losing their spots in the finals anytime soon. With only 200 points separating either making the finals or not, this is going to be a close race.

Other storylines

Of the players currently in, Vivian Glozman, Jackie Kawamoto, and Lea Jansen did not qualify last year. On the flip side, Mari Humberg, Callie Smith, and Lucy Kovalova qualified last year, and are currently outside the top 16.

Vivian Glozman seems to be having contract issues, and her status for the rest of the year on the PPA Tour is in jeopardy at the moment. DOn’t worry - she is full eligible to play MLP.

Fahey is on the outside looking in at the 17 spot, but she is playing great recently with Tina Pisnik and I really expect her to make a surge forward this year.

My WAY too early prediction

Anna Leigh Waters, Catherine Parenteau, Anna Bright, Rachel Rohrabacher, Hurricane Tyra Black, Parris Todd, Jorja Johnson, Etta Tuionetia, Lea Jansen, Meghan Dizon, Tina Pisnik, Lacy Schneemann, Lucy Kovalova, Kate Fahey, Callie Smith, and Jackie Kawamoto.

Men’s Doubles

The top six players feel like they are never missing semi-finals. I know some of them have, but they are the most consistent top men right now on tour. Men’s doubles has so much parity and partnership changes that I wouldn’t be surprised to see someone outside the top 20 currently make it to The Finals.

Other storylines

Collin Johns is a very interesting case study. He won 2,000 points with Ben at the PPA Masters, and since then, has won 950 points with multiple partners. I expect him to continue to slip down the leaderboard unless he can find a partner he consistently makes the quarters and beyond with.

A lot of the last couple spots comes down to partners for me. For example, Jaume Martinez Vich and Augie Ge are playing together a ton and I expect their level to raise a little bit. On the flip side, Matt Wright seems to be switching partners fairly often. Both strategies can work, so we shall see where everything shakes out.

As mentioned previously, I think someone outside the top 20 right now could easily crack the top 16. Here are the 20-24 players, in order, right now: Rafa Hewett, Connor Garnett, Riley Newman, Tyler Loong, and Zane Navratil.

My WAY too early prediction

Ben Johns, Andrei Daescu, Gabe Tardio, Christian Alshon, Federico Staksrud, Hayden Patriquin, JW Johnson, CJ Klinger, Quang Duong, Pablo Tellez, Dylan Frazier, Dekel Bar, Tyson McGuffin, Riley Newman, Jaume Martinez Vich, and Augie Ge.

(p.s men can save up to 58% on brands like Wilson, Fila, and Nike if you use our employee discount "thedink" on clearance items from our friend's at Midwest Racquet Sports)

Women’s Mixed Doubles

After the top five, there is a 1,000 point difference to the sixth spot. In my mind, with the partners they can get, the top five are safe. So the rest of the women’s mixed doubles field is fighting for three spots.

Other storylines

Vivienne David made The Finals last year, but opted not to play in the event, and she is 26th right now.

Two big names who are well outside the top eight are Parris Todd and Etta Tuionetoa, both tied for 29th. They are both very good mixed doubles players that will need to turn it on in the second half of the year to have a shot at The Finals.

My WAY too early prediction

Anna Leigh Waters, Anna Bright, Jorja Johnson, Hurricane Tyra Black, Catherine Parenteau, Tina Pisnik, Kate Fahey, and Etta Tuionetoa.

Men’s Mixed Doubles

In my opinion, this the toughest event of them all to make the finals. Eight men’s mixed doubles spots. As an example, Hayden Patriquin didn’t even make it to the Finals last year, which is preposterous to think about now.

Other storylines

Tardio is hanging on by a thread to that last spot, so him and Jessie have to get close to another couple of wins and/or get another win to cement their places.

Even though I said this is maybe the toughest event to make The Finals in, I don’t foresee much movement from the current situation. This is mostly because when good mixed partnerships form, they stay together for the year. And there are already some excellent ones.

My WAY too early prediction

Ben Johns, Christian Alshon, JW Johnson, Federico Staksrud, Hayden Patriquin, Dekel Bar, Andrei Daescu, and Gabe Tardio - No changes from here on out. 

Check back with The Dink throughout the rest of the season. We will publish a few more of these Points Race articles along the way to keep you updated.

In a recent episode of Roddick's podcast, "Served with Andy Roddick," taped live at SXSW in Austin, TX, author and pickleball enthusiast Brené Brown sat down with the tennis legend to explore the collective fascination with pickleball, shedding light on its unique identity when compared to tennis and addressing the ongoing court-sharing controversy between the two sports.

'National Security Concern'

Brown, an avid pickleball player, emphasized the distinctiveness of pickleball compared to tennis, stressing that the sports serve different communities and needs.

"They're not the same game," she said. "Pickleball is not a miniature version of tennis — they're different games, for different people, for different reasons."

Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston and the author of six #1 New York Times bestsellers. She hosts two podcasts, Unlocking Us and Dare to Lead. 

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Highlighting the intensity of pickleball's community, Brown served up this quip: "Both are intense, tennis players and pickleball players. But hey, a street fight comes, I'm going with the pickleball players."

Surprised, Roddick responded with characteristic wit, "They roll that hard? I didn't realize pickleballers were a national security concern."

(p.s save 58% by taking an additional 15% off sale items on Midwest Racquet Sports using our employee code "thedink")

A Matter of Real Estate

Addressing the ongoing tension over court space, Brown clarified, "The fight is about clubs where pickleball players want to take over tennis courts."

Roddick agreed: "We wouldn't be putting the pickleball courts in if the tennis courts were full and paid for."

While supportive of pickleball's accessibility and rapid growth, Roddick revealed his personal preference remains firmly with tennis. "On a participatory level, I love pickleball. I think it's brought a ton of joy to a ton of people," he conceded. "It's not for me, yet. I enjoy it; I choose tennis when I get to play."

Report: Pickleball Participation Surges to Nearly 20 Million in 2024

For the fourth consecutive year, pickleball remains America’s fastest-growing sport, and the numbers behind its meteoric rise are nothing short of historic.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

One Thing They Agree On

Roddick also shared a nuanced observation about pickleball's unique competitive arc, noting, "I think it's the only professional sport where the better you get, the more it slows down."

Ultimately, both Brown and Roddick agreed on one clear point: "Comparison is impossible."

That may be true — but it sure is fun.

For the first time, I am excited to review some pickleball gameplay. The video, originally posted on Reddit, features two solid 4.0/4.5 teams in what looks like competitive rec or tournament play.

For the sake of anonymity, I will refer to the team closest to the camera as the near team, and the team further away from the camera as the far team. Let’s dive into the film and analyze what each team did well and could work on.

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Pro Analysis By

Eric Roddy | DUPR 6.24

Turned Pro: 2022

Doubles Ranking: 55th

Singles Ranking: 20th

This video may be short but there’s a lot of good pickleball played in that small amount of time, and the first point is a great example of good pickleball by both teams. The near team starts off serving at 2-2-1. We have very little context otherwise, but we know that it is early in the game, which is helpful when analyzing strategy.

Point #1 – Test Your Opponents & Apply Pressure

Near-Side Team Analysis

I really like how they utilized a 75% drive on the third shot to set up a manageable fifth shot drop to work their way to the Kitchen. Neither player seemed rushed to get in, and neither player tried to overhit the third or fifth shot, instead using them as transition balls to get into the Kitchen.

Test Your Opponents — Once at the Kitchen, the player in the white hat on the right side tested his opponent in front of him with a nice speed up down the line, and he made sure to cover his opponents’ counter by sliding middle and making the next shot. Again, I like how much composure the near team had despite initiating the speed up. From here, both players continued to move their dinks around and make their opponents move at the Kitchen line, which is essential when all four players are at the net. 

Take High Dinks Out of the Air: The only thing I noticed from the near team in this otherwise well-played point is that the right-side player in the white hat had an opportunity to lean in and take a forehand dink out of the air to apply pressure. Instead, he let his opponents’ higher dink bounce, and as a result he had to step way off the line to hit a defensive dink. If he had leaned in, he would have had a nice opportunity to apply more pressure to his opponents. Regardless, their aggressive dinking led to an error by their opponents and a point.

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Far-Side Team Analysis

I don’t have a ton of criticism for the far team on this point. All four players played a good point. However, I do have a few areas where the far team could improve. First, kudos to the returner for a high, deep return that gave him plenty of time to get to the Kitchen line and minimized his opponents’ ability to be aggressive on the third shot drive. For all amateurs out there, a return doesn’t need to have a ton of power or speed if its deep. Depth is key. 

Maintain Offensive Posture — The only other criticism I have here is the difference between the far team’s ready position and body language at the Kitchen when compared to the near team’s. The far team is not as low in their ready position, and they look more defensive in their posture. As a result, their dinks aren’t as aggressive, and they are ultimately pushed around more at the line by their opponents’ dinks, which leads to their unforced error. It is so important to stay low at the Kitchen and really focus on moving well to hit the best dinks possible.

Point #2 – Choose Your Poaches Wisely

Analyzing Both Left-Side Players

This is a quick point, and I’m going to just focus on the left-side players from both teams. The left-side player on the near team does an excellent job of identifying his opponents’ weaker slice return. If your opponent slices their return short, you should absolutely hit a topspin drive on the third shot. The slice spin will enable you to come over the top of the ball and hit a dipping third-shot drive, as seen in this video. 

Choose your speed-ups wisely — Where the left-side player on the near team makes a poorer decision is on the fifth shot. He wisely follows his third shot drive in, following the path of the ball nicely to the middle of the court. However, he takes the fifth shot which is below the net and tries to speed it up at the player in front of him. As a result, the ball comes off high and the far player is able to counter the ball at the player's feet, creating an overhead shot to the near-side player on the baseline.

Well played by the left-side player on the far team to overcome a weak return, but it’s the decision by the left-side player on the near team that ultimately causes the loss of point.

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Remaining Points – Get Your Returns Deep

Near-Side Team Analysis

Beginning with the near team serving at 3-2-2 until the end of the video (which ends with the near team serving 6-2-2), the obvious theme is the far team hitting weak returns. 

Far-Side Team Analysis

Hit deep returns — Again, the far team is not as low as they need to be, and as a result they hit weaker returns. While the near team is hitting above-average serves, they are by no means bombing the serve or hitting the backline, so there is no excuse for the far team to hit such short returns. As a result, the serving team is able to attack the third shot with well-placed drives that lead to missed volleys by their opponents.

Use Your Timeouts — From a strategy standpoint, I would have liked to see the far team call a timeout after the first or second point here. It’s possible they did not have any timeouts in the format they were playing in, but if they did, they should have used one to try to stop the serving team’s momentum. A 4-2-2 lead is very different than a 6-2-2 lead, especially if this was in a third or deciding game. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, the level and decision-making by both teams were solid. In just this short clip, you can see the common themes (short returns, decision-making) that lead to points scored in a competitive pickleball game. Thanks for reading, and be on the lookout for the next article. Enjoy the grind, and remember, you can’t dink all day if you don’t start in the morning.

If you're curious, here is our top viewed article in 2025 thus far about a new high tech pickleball: link

Major League Pickleball’s (MLP) Trade Window #2 opened shortly after the Premier Level and Challenger Level drafts concluded.

The official timing for Trade Window #2 is Tuesday, March 4th, and through Wednesday, July 16th, at 10pm ET.

This is going to be the place where The Dink keeps track of all the Trade Window #2 transactions, so bookmark this link to stay up-to-date on all transactions.

Speaking of transactions, if you're in the market for new shoes, use our employee discount code "thedink" on Midwest Racquet Sports to save on everything from paddles to shoes.

March 18th Update

Trade

• Bay Area Breakers (Challenger) acquire Alix Truong
• Utah Black Diamonds (Premier) acquire Allyce Jones

New Rosters:

• Bay Area Breakers (Challenger): Alix Truong, Danna Funaro, Eric Roddy, DJ Young
• Utah Black Diamonds (Premier): Connor Garnett, Tyler Loong, Allyce Jones, Mehvish Safdar, Genie Erokhina, and Yates Johnson

Analysis: Both Truong and Jones live in Utah. I think Truong has made some real progress this past year, emphasized by her semi-final run in the recent PPA Texas Open with Eric Oncins. This may be a situation where Connor Garnett and Alix haven't played together in several months and needed a new change of scenery. Allyce has been playing well recently, including some deep runs with Hurricane Tyra Black. This one feels about even for me, with maybe a slight edge going to Bay Area.

March 13th Update

Trade

• Bay Area Breakers (Challenger) acquire DJ Young
• Dallas Flash (Premier) acquire Wyatt Stone and cash considerations

New Rosters:

• Bay Area Breakers (Challenger): Allyce Jones, Danna Funaro, Eric Roddy, DJ Young
• Dallas Flash (Premier): JW Johnson, Jorja Johnson, Hurricane Tyra Black, Augie Ge, Tatiana Ruhl, and Wyatt Stone

Analysis: This was probably another agreed upon pre-draft/during draft trade by the Breakers. Dallas probably drafted DJ Young for Bay Area and then Bay Area drafted Wyatt for Dallas. This one doesn’t move the needle in either direction for me.

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March 11th Update

Trade

• Bay Area Breakers (Challenger) acquire Danna Funaro
• NY Hustlers (Premier) acquire Lingwei Kong and cash considerations

New Rosters:

• Bay Area Breakers (Challenger): Allyce Jones, Danna Funaro, Eric Roddy, Wyatt Stone
• NY Hustlers (Premier): Zane Ford, Donald Young, Helena Spiridis, Dominique Schaefer, Stephen Madonia, and Lingwei Kong

Analysis: This was almost certainly one of two pre-arranged draft day trades for the New York Hustlers. Danna will get a good chance to play for Bay Area, while Lingwei is going to have to fight for playing time in Premier. 

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Trade

• California Black Bears (Challenger) acquire Juan Benitez
• NY Hustlers (Premier) acquire Stephen Madonia and cash considerations

New Rosters:

• California Black Bears (Challenger): Rafa Hewett, Lina Padegimaite, Layne Sleeth, and Juan Benitez
• NY Hustlers (Premier): Zane Ford, Donald Young, Helena Spiridis, Dominique Schaefer, Stephen Madonia, and Lingwei Kong

Analysis: This was almost certainly one of two pre-arranged draft day trades for the New York Hustlers. Juan recently signed with UPA and will get to play at the Challenger Level, while Stephen is going to sit the bench for the foreseeable future with NY.

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March 5th Update

Trade

• Miami Pickleball Club (Premier) acquires Noe Khlif and cash considerations
• Texas Ranchers (Premier) acquires Eric Oncins

New Rosters:

• Miami Pickleball Club (Premier): Noe Khlif, Jay Devilliers, Milan Rane, Mya Bui, Ava Ignatowich, and Yuta Funemizu
• Texas Ranchers (Premier): Christian Alshon, Etta Tuionetoa, Tina Pisnik, Eric Oncins, Michael Loyd, and Helena Jansen

Analysis: This was a trade of two former Miami Pickleball Club teammates, Oncins and Khlif. I wouldn’t be surprised if this was a draft day deal between the two clubs. Both players have a ton of upside, we will see in the results, which team made a better trade deal.

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Trade

• Phoenix Flames (Premier) acquire Genie Bouchard and cash considerations
• New Jersey 5s (Premier) acquire Meghan Dizon

New Rosters:

• Phoenix Flames (Premier): Tyson McGuffin, Jack Sock, Genie Bouchard, Jessie Irvine, Alex Walker, and Pesa Teoni
• New Jersey 5s (Premier): Anna Leigh Waters, Meghan Dizon, Zane Navratil, Will Howells, Christa Gecheva, and Craig Johnson

Analysis: This was definitely a draft day trade, meaning Phoenix told New Jersey that they wanted Genie, and New Jersey drafted Genie for anything at $100k or less. If New Jersey didn’t like any of the available women enough to play alongside Anna Leigh, then this trade makes sense for them as well. Genie does not make Phoenix better.

Injured Reserve

• Los Angeles Mad Drops (Premier) place Thomas Wilson on IR (out for season) and add Wes Burrows

New Roster:

• Los Angeles Mad Drops (Premier): Catherine Parenteau, Quang Duong, Jade Kawamoto, Hunter Johnson, Angie Walker, Wes Burrows, and Thomas Wilson (IR)

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Analysis: This was bound to happen, and Burrows is a local SoCal guy who can activate in the community - good move all around.

Pickleball Skill Quiz

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Pickleball Skill Quiz

The Cayman Islands are getting their first pro tour stop from the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) Tour. Set to take place on the island of Grand Cayman, this unprecedented event should be fun for locals and touring pros alike.

The APP Tour is putting on this event along with Pickleball Cayman (the host venue). The event will take place from Thursday, March 20th - Sunday, March 23rd.

While this event does not have APP Tour Points associated with it, there is still prize money on the line in the Open Divisions (Pro).

About the Venue

The facility has been in place since July 2023, and began with just six courts. Pickleball Cayman now hosts 24 lighted courts, 12 of which are under a roof. 

Interestingly, Pickleball Cayman does not charge a membership fee. Instead, players just to rent courts, take lessons, attend event or clinics that they book.

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In addition to a large local contingent of players, Pickleball Cayman also caters to cruise ship tourists, with it only being a five-minute taxi ride from the main port. With five PPR certified coaches on their roster, the facility also offers high level lesson options.

Weather Outlook

It looks like the northern part of the Midwest United States is getting hit with a large snow storm and cold front this week - not so, in the Cayman Islands! Temperatures between 74 and 84 for the entire tournament will make conditions picturesque!

Order of Play

Pro-Am Event

Unique to this APP Tour event is a Pro-Am event on March 19th, from 2-5pm EST. Featuring some high level pros, amateurs are getting paired up to play with a pro in the 16-team round-robin style tournament that will feature semi-finals and a final.

(p.s f you're more of an "am" and less of a "pro" we highly recommend you play the highest grade paddle you can afford. Unlike a sport like golf, there is no reason to not play the best paddle you can find. It can only help. Enjoy our employee discount code "thedink" on MidwestRacquetSports.com)

Some of the US based pros that will be playing in the Pro-Am tournament are Megan Fudge, Kyle Yates, Bobbi Oshiro, Jack Munro, Yana Newell, Amanda Hendry, and Jack Foster, among many other top APP touring pros.

Open Division 

Schedule of play for the Open Divisions (Pro):

• Thursday, March 20th - Women’s and Men’s Singles
• Friday, March 21st - Women’s and Men’s Doubles
• Saturday, March 22nd - Mixed Doubles

Note - There is no Championship Sunday in this event; all Open level events will play to conclusion on the scheduled day.

Streaming is unavailable at this event

This event will not have any live-streaming available.

Top APP Tour players in the tournament

Women

• Megan Fudge - #1 Women’s Doubles APP player - Playing Mixed Open with Jack Munro and Women’s Open with Nicole Pitts
• Bobbi Oshiro - #1 Mixed Doubles APP player - Playing Mixed Open with Richard Livornese, Jr. and Women’s Open with Judit Castillo
• Yana Newell - #2 Women’s Singles APP player - Playing Women’s Singles Open, Mixed Open with Patrick Kawka, and Women’s Open with Carolina Mayorga-Perry
• Amanda Hendry - #3 Women’s Singles APP player - Playing Women’s Singles Open, Mixed Open with Ryler DeHeart, and Women’s Open with Allison Harris

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Men

• Jack Munro - #2 Men’s Doubles APP player - Playing Mixed Open with Megan Fudge and Men’s Open with Richard Livornese, Jr.
• Kyle Yates - Pro Pickleball Hall of Famer - Playing Mixed Open with Judit Castillo and Men’s Open with Jack Foster
• Jack Foster - #3 Men’s Singles APP player - Playing Men’s Singles Open, Mixed Open with Alexa Schull, and Men’s Open with Kyle Yates
• Patrick Kawka - #8 Men’s Doubles APP player - Playing Mixed Open with Yana Newell, and Men’s Open with Ryler DeHeart

Other Top APP touring pros who are playing: Ryler DeHeart, Andre Mick, Judit Castillo, Alexa Schull, Riley Bohnert, Richard Livornese, Jr., and Ben Newell, among others!

Notable Cayman Island players who are playing: Michael Carse, Jerry Beck, Dana Karani, and Steve Thompson are all teaching pros at Pickleball Cayman and are also playing in Open Divisions.

Note: On 3/18/2025 we landed a deal with Midwest Racquet Sports because we believe they have the best selection of pickleball shoes on the internet. Our readers can use code "thedink" the next two weeks to save 10% on almost all their shoes.

Pickleball Skill Quiz

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Pickleball Skill Quiz

According to the newly released Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) 2025 Topline Participation Report, pickleball now boasts 19.8 million participants in the U.S.—a 45.8% increase from 2023 and a staggering 311% growth over the past three years.

Let's look at the pickleball's proliferation a bit closer—including the "why" behind the sport's meteoric popularity and some potential roadblocks that could impede future growth.

(p.s if you're looking to join the game here is the beginner set we recommend to first timers for $36.99 via Amazon that can ship as quick as tomorrow with prime)

How We Got Here

Before we dig into the numbers, a note on methodology:

During 2024, a total of 18,000 online interviews were carried out with a nationwide sample of individuals from U.S. proprietary online panels representative of the U.S. population of people ages six and older. Strict quotas associated with gender, age, income, region, and ethnicity were followed to ensure a balanced sample.

The participants were weighted along several variables, including gender, age, income, ethnicity, household size, region, and population density. The resulting sample, according to SFIA, "provides a high degree of statistical accuracy."

Breaking Down the Numbers

SFIA’s latest data confirms that both casual and core participation in pickleball are surging.

Here's what they extrapolated out from the findings:

• 13.6 million casual players (1-7 times per year), a 55.6% increase from 2023.
• 6.2 million core players (8+ times per year), a 28.2% increase from 2023.

For perspective, let’s look at pickleball’s five-year trajectory:

• 2019: 3.46 million players
• 2020: 4.20 million players
• 2021: 4.82 million players
• 2022: 8.95 million players
• 2023: 13.58 million players
• 2024: 19.81 million players

This represents an average annual growth rate of 43.9%—far outpacing any other recreational sport in America.

(p.s if you're one of the 3.46 million OG's from 2019 and a true seasoned vet, enjoy our employee discount code "thedink" on MidwestRacquetSports.com)

Is Pickleball Still Experiencing Explosive Growth and are Participants Skewing Younger?

Pickleball continued its meteoric rise, but is it starting to slow down? We highlight some of the more interesting findings from a recent industry report that sheds light on the sport’s growth and its participants.

The Dink PickleballJason Flamm

Why Is Pickleball Growing So Fast?

1. A Sport for All Ages and Skill Levels

Once perceived as a retiree-friendly pastime, pickleball has exploded in popularity across all age groups.

Its low barrier to entry, simple rules, and smaller court size allow new players to quickly engage and enjoy the game—whether they’re competing at a high level or just having fun with friends.

Pickleball is also one of the few sports where beginners can play alongside experienced players, making it a socially engaging and inclusive activity.

2. Infrastructure Boom: The Demand for Courts

The demand for dedicated pickleball facilities is at an all-time high.

As community parks, recreation centers, and even private clubs struggle to keep up, cities nationwide are converting underutilized tennis courts into pickleball courts.

7 Home Pickleball Courts You Need to See to Believe

VersaCourt offers patented tile technology and customizable graphics options to bring your home pickleball court vision to life.

The Dink PickleballAlex E. Weaver

Major investments in pickleball infrastructure—including standalone pickleball facilities and residential communities building courts into their designs—reflect the sport’s shift from a niche activity to a mainstream staple.

3. The Competitive and Professional Scene is Heating Up

Beyond recreational play, pickleball is rapidly gaining traction at the professional level.

Tournaments and leagues continue to expand, attracting high-profile investors, sponsors, and former pro athletes from other sports. With more prize money, TV coverage, and corporate backing, pickleball is evolving into a legitimate professional sport with a dedicated fan base.

‘A Seminal Moment’: The PPA Tour Set an Attendance Record in Mesa

The 2025 Carvana Mesa Cup set an attendance record, more attendees than an average ’23-’24 regular season NBA and NHL game.

The Dink PickleballAlex E. Weaver

What’s Next for Pickleball?

Industry analysts predict that pickleball’s growth will continue at a strong pace in 2025 and beyond, though perhaps not as explosively as in previous years.

The next challenge isn’t convincing more people to play—they're clearly hooked already—it’s building enough infrastructure to support the demand.

With millions of new players stepping onto the court each year, the future of the sport is bright.