Good morning pickleballers!
Here's today's pickleball news.
Joe James has taken a closer look at the Pickleheads seed funding announcement.
And I have the PKLBulletin - on a Saturday, I know!
Ace Pickleball Club to Serve Up 25-30 New Locations by Year's End
Ace Pickleball Club (APC) is planning a significant expansion, aiming to open 25 to 30 new locations by the end of 2025. This follows a year where the indoor pickleball franchise launched 11 new clubs. With more than 125 APC locations awarded and currently in development, the franchise is set to establish a stronger national presence.
The new clubs are expected to debut in cities such as Grand Rapids, Michigan; Lutz, Florida; Brookfield, Wisconsin; Wilmington, Delaware; and Frisco, Texas, expanding APC's reach across Michigan, Texas, and New Jersey.
APC prides itself on creating accessible pickleball experiences for players of all skill levels. Their clubs feature professional-grade courts organized by skill level, from beginner to advanced. APC enhances the playing experience using PlaySight technology, which provides players with instant highlight reels.
Memberships at APC include unlimited open play, reservations, social mixers, events, tournaments, clinics, and entry into the APC Member Championship Series. APC also limits non-member drop-ins during peak times. According to APC co-founder and president Joe Sexton, the goal is to be the best part of the members' day and the most rewarding business in the franchisees’ portfolio.
Chennai Cool Cats Claw to Victory, Aditya Singh Named MVP at Indian Open
Chennai Cool Cats have emerged victorious at the Indian Open 2025 Pickleball Tournament, with Aditya Singh being named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Challenger League. The Cool Cats secured their win in a thrilling five-set tie-breaker against the Bengaluru Blazers at the event held in Mumbai from February 3 to 9. Dev Shah’s performance in the final moments was crucial in sealing the victory.
The Chennai Cool Cats displayed impressive form throughout the league, demonstrating resilience and strategic play. Team owner Yudhi Ruia, also an active Pro Pickleball player and a partner at Global Sports, played a key role in maintaining high team morale and providing support. Singh, who trained with Global Sports for two years, showcased exceptional skill and determination.
In other results from the Indian Open 2025, the Jaipur Jawans claimed third place after defeating the Hyderabad Vikings. The Pro League saw the Delhi Snipers, led by Jamie Haas, secure the championship, defeating the Chennai Cool Cats. Aidan Schenk of the Delhi Snipers was named MVP of the Pro League. The Indian Open 2025 featured a $12,000 prize pool for the Challenger League.
The tournament highlighted the increasing talent and enthusiasm for pickleball in India, with actor Manish Paul suggesting that its popularity could soon rival leagues like the IPL.
Armaan Bhatia Holds Top Spot in India's Pickleball Rankings
Armaan Bhatia has secured the top position in the latest continental rankings for Indian men's singles pickleball players. The rankings, released by DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Ratings), highlight Bhatia's dominance in the sport within India.
With a DUPR rating of 5.935, Bhatia leads the list, followed closely by Aditya Ruhela, who holds a DUPR rating of 5.874. Ruhela recently won the 4th IPA Nationals men's singles title. Sonu Kumar Vishwakarma is ranked third with a DUPR rating of 5.616, while Vanshik Kapadia, also Asia No. 1 in doubles, is fourth with a DUPR rating of 5.399.
Bhatia's success extends to men's doubles, where he and Harsh Mehta are ranked first and second in India, with DUPR ratings of 6.379 and 6.105, respectively.
Among Asia's men's singles players, Armaan Bhatia is ranked third, while Aditya Ruhela is fourth, and Sonu Kumar Vishwakarma is seventh. In women's singles, Mihika Yadav is the sole Indian in the top 10 among Asia's players, holding the sixth position with a DUPR rating of 5.148. These rankings reflect the growing talent and competitive spirit within the Indian pickleball community.
Carvana Mesa Cup Serves Up Intense Pickleball Action
The Carvana Mesa Cup is set to deliver intense pickleball action, beginning February 17. This PPA Tour event promises a highly competitive men’s singles draw, featuring some of the biggest names in professional pickleball.
Federico Staksrud, the tournament’s top seed, seeks to rebound after a disappointing performance in Tucson. Ben Johns, a dominant force in the sport, returns to singles action, aiming to climb the rankings.
Other strong contenders include Tyson McGuffin, fresh off a finals appearance in Australia, and JW Johnson, a selective singles competitor. Hunter Johnson, buoyed by his recent gold medal in Tucson, is also expected to be a formidable player.
The competition will be fierce, with talented players such as Christian Alshon, Dylan Frazier, and Connor Garnett all capable of challenging the top seeds. Adding to the excitement is Jack Sock, a former professional tennis star.
The tournament's format, with one match per day, allows players ample recovery time to strategize, promising high-level performances throughout the event. Players will compete for 1,500 ranking points, increasing the stakes.
Staksrud Joins Osaka, Kyrgios for Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge
Federico Staksrud is set to join Naomi Osaka and Nick Kyrgios at the 2025 Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge, scheduled for March 3 at La Quinta Resort & Club in California. This event promises a blend of competitive pickleball and celebrity entertainment.
The event will feature a mix of professional pickleball players and celebrity participants.
Confirmed participants include:
- Singer Jason Derulo
- Athlete Michael Loyd
- Pickleball pros Callie Smith, Shelby Bates, and Matt Manasse
- Director Doug Ellin
- Television personality Colton Underwood
The Desert Smash event has partnered with MLP’s Miami Pickleball Club, adding prestige to the competition. The official Desert Smash website promises exclusive VIP access, dynamic pickleball matches, and unparalleled networking and sponsorship opportunities. Staksrud shared his excitement on Instagram, inviting fans to attend the event. The 2025 Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge aims to celebrate the sport’s growing popularity with thrilling matchups and VIP experiences.
Cupcakes and Championship Points: Santa Barbara's Crush Courts Offer Unique Pickleball Experience
Crushcakes' Owner is serving up a new venture, Crush Courts, in Santa Barbara, offering a unique pickleball experience that combines private court rentals with catering options from her popular bakery.
Shannon Gaston, the proprietor of Crushcakes & Café, partnered with Andrew Manalis to transform a 25-year-old tennis court on her parents' property into two private pickleball courts.
Crush Courts aims to provide a safe and private space for players, contrasting with the often-overcrowded public courts. Players can book court time via the Crush Courts website, with rates starting at $50 for a minimum of two hours. Private lessons from certified instructor Manalis are also available, starting at $85 per hour. All equipment is provided.
Adding a sweet twist to the experience, Crush Courts offers food and beverage packages catered by Crushcakes, allowing for cupcake pickleball parties or cupcake and champagne celebrations. They are also partnering with resorts such as the Rosewood Miramar Beach to offer their courts to hotel guests. Gaston hopes to capture the community-building spirit of pickleball, offering a space where people can bond and enjoy the sport for years to come.
MLP Premier Trade: Daescu to Columbus, Devilliers to Phoenix
Major League Pickleball (MLP) has announced a Premier Level trade that sends Andrei Daescu to the Columbus Sliders and Jay Devilliers to the Phoenix Flames. The trade occurred as Trade Window #1 closed on February 15.
Here are the updated team rosters:
- Columbus Sliders (Premier): Andrei Daescu, CJ Klinger, Callie Smith, Parris Todd
- Phoenix Flames (Premier): Jay Devilliers, Meghan Dizon, Jessie Irvine, Tyson McGuffin
In a related Challenger Level trade, Brooklyn acquires Blaine Hovenier while Las Vegas gains Pablo Tellez. Additionally, California gets Rafa Hewett, and Las Vegas picks up Chris Haworth.
These trades lead to the following updated Challenger Level team rosters:
- Brooklyn Aces: Danie De La Rosa, Amanda Hendry, Blaine Hovenier, Andrea Koop
- California Black Bears: Brandon French, Rafa Hewett, Lina Padegimaite, Layne Sleeth
- Las Vegas Night Owls: Judit Castillo, Chris Haworth, Pablo Tellez, Chao Yi “Zoey” Wang
Each team will declare its keepers and drop at least one player on February 16.