Are We Witnessing the Rise of Team Play in Pickleball?

Yellow pickleball on court for team play in pickleball.

Team Play: The Future of Pickleball?

As pickleball continues to rise in popularity, the shift towards team play is capturing the attention of players and fans alike. With its introduction in Major League Pickleball (MLP) events since late 2021, team-based formats are merging excitement with the traditional elements of the game. Imagine a court buzzing with energy as players coach each other between points—something that isn’t allowed in standard play. This camaraderie, combined with an enthusiastic bench supporting their teammates, creates a uniquely engaging experience.

Understanding the Team Play Format

In MLP matches, a team typically consists of two men and two women, although recent expansions allow up to three men and three women per team. This structure cultivates dynamic team strategies and fosters an inclusive atmosphere. The format consists of a series of games, including women’s doubles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles, culminating in a thrilling singles tiebreaker known as the DreamBreaker. This rigorous and chaotic finale, which engages both genders in matchups, keeps spectators on the edge of their seats.

The Appeal of Doubles Play

The shift towards team-centric formats is influenced by the growing popularity of doubles play over singles, particularly among older players seeking social interaction. With pickleball's accessible nature, matches can accommodate four players on the court, making it a more practical choice, especially in areas where court time is limited. It’s not just about the game; it’s about community, fun, and connection.

Fans Responding Positively

With increased attendance at live events and a rise in streaming numbers, it’s clear that fans are embracing this evolution in pickleball. The exciting dynamics of team play draw in audiences who appreciate the thrill and unpredictability of matches, especially during high-stakes moments in the DreamBreaker.
Team play may not completely replace traditional formats, but it certainly adds a vibrant new chapter to the growing sport of pickleball. Is it here to stay? The answer seems to lean toward a confident yes. As pickleball continues to evolve, team play may very well become a hallmark of the sport, captivating both current fans and new players alike.

Pickleball Lifestyle

0 Comments

Write A Comment

Related Posts All Posts

09.21.2025

NPL's 2026 Expansion: New Leagues for Elite 40+ Pickleball Players

Update Exciting News for Pickleball Enthusiasts Aged 40+ The National Pickleball League (NPL) has announced a thrilling expansion for the 2026 season, introducing three new age-specific divisions aimed at players over 40. This expansion is not just about adding teams; it signifies a broader commitment to inclusivity in the sport. As the NPL CEO Rod Davis states, the goal is to ‘showcase the incredible talent, athleticism, and competitiveness of players over age 50,’ ensuring that both elite and aspiring young players have opportunities to flourish. New Leagues to Empower More Players With the addition of elite divisions for players aged 40 and 60, the NPL is creating pathways for dedicated athletes at different life stages. The “Next Up Pros” league for those aged 50+ opens doors for aspiring players to compete and eventually be drafted into the pro league. These new offerings allow for substantial growth in community engagement, connecting older players with their local clubs and enhancing the pickleball experience across the nation. The Rise of Pickleball in Southern California As pickleball continues to surge in popularity, particularly in regions like Southern California, the expansion of the NPL invites local companies—especially health-focused businesses, orthopedists, and e-commerce sellers—to explore new markets. The league's introduction of a Tournament Series for players age 40 and above adds another layer of excitement, with competitions slated to take place in early 2026. This roadmap presents incredible opportunities for both participants and local businesses to capitalize on the growing pickleball culture. The Importance of Inclusivity and Opportunities In his remarks, Davis emphasized the importance of providing platforms where seasoned players can share their skills while enjoying competitive play. This initiative not only validates older athletes’ commitment but also highlights the role that community engagement plays in sustaining interest in the sport. As members of the 40+ age group, these players enrich the pickleball scene with experience and vibrant sportsmanship, making them crucial contributors to the league's dynamic growth.

09.13.2025

2025-2026 PPA Tour Announcement: A New Era for Pickleball Fans

Update The Exciting Evolution of the PPA Tour In a move expected to redefine the competitive landscape for pickleball enthusiasts, the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) has officially announced its schedule for the 2025-2026 season. This significant change marks a departure from its previous calendar year format to a more structured fall-to-spring season, aligning more closely with other major sports like basketball and hockey. What to Expect in the Upcoming Season The 2025-2026 PPA Tour season will kick off in June 2025 and culminate with the finals in May 2026, featuring a total of 21 events. Notable competitions include the Worlds in Dallas, which will award 3,000 points, alongside three Slam events in Cincinnati, Masters, and Atlanta that offer 2,000 points each. Five Cups in San Clemente, Virginia Beach, Las Vegas, Mesa, and St. George will provide 1,500 points, while 11 Opens across various locations will offer 1,000 points. The Rationale Behind the Change This strategic shift comes in the wake of the PPA's merger with Major League Pickleball (MLP) in 2024. The interwoven schedules of the two leagues during the previous year often confused fans and hindered their ability to engage with each tour independently. By clearly delineating the PPA and MLP seasons, both entities are positioned to attract more viewers and secure lucrative sponsorships. Impact on Players and Fans For players, particularly those engaged with both the PPA and MLP leagues, the changes signify a season reset, especially regarding the points system. The first half of the 2025 season will not carry over into the new cycle for The Race, which could either benefit or hinder players based on their current form. For fans, this clarity in scheduling will not only enhance their viewing experience but also open avenues for media engagement and sponsorship opportunities. As we look forward to the 2025-2026 season, fans can expect thrilling matches, clear separations between seasons, and hopefully, an even stronger growth in the popularity of pickleball. Whether you're a seasoned player or a fan, the merging of defined seasons presents an exciting development for all involved in the sport.

09.10.2025

UPA Partners with Kalshi: Revolutionizing Predictions Market for Pickleball Enthusiasts

Update UPA's Strategic Shift: Embracing Predictions Markets In a groundbreaking move for the world of pickleball, the United Pickleball Association (UPA) has officially announced a one-year partnership with Kalshi, a regulated predictions market. This exciting alliance marks a new era for sports wagering in Major League Pickleball (MLP) events, now permissible across all 50 states. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, the integration of predictions markets into its framework reflects a smart strategic pivot aimed at directly engaging fans and enhancing their viewing experience. Unveiling Kalshi: The Future of Event Prediction Kalshi stands out as the first CFTC regulated exchange focused on trading outcomes for future events. Instead of traditional betting, users can secure yes or no positions on whether specific outcomes will occur. With an expanding range of topics—from economic indicators to significant governmental actions—Kalshi provides a unique playground for fans eager to stake their claims in the competitive pickleball landscape. Launching Live Trading During Major League Events At this week's PPA Cincinnati, Kalshi is giving fans the chance to trade on the results of various pro disciplines, including Men's Singles and Women's Doubles. The excitement is palpable, with nearly $5,000 already entered into the trading pot. This interactive approach allows avid pickleball fans—not just to watch the games but also to have a stake in the outcomes, fundamentally increasing their engagement. The Impact on Player and Fan Experience This partnership stands to benefit not just the league, but also the players and the entire pickleball community by creating new avenues for involvement. By integrating predictions markets into the MLP framework, fans over 50, who are increasingly engaging with sports, are presented with both a betting avenue and an innovative way to connect with the sport they love. What's Next for Pickleball and Predictions? As the UPA and Kalshi embark on this venture, it sets the stage for further exploration into how predictions markets can drive fan involvement in sports wagering and events. This is especially pertinent as companies cater to a growing demographic of pickleball enthusiasts looking for more than just a game but an experience. This innovative shift in sports engagement not only engages the die-hard fans of the sport but also taps into the evolving landscape of sports wagering, paving the way for potential growth in related industries like ecommerce and health supplements that cater to pickleball players.

Are We Witnessing the Rise of Team Play in Pickleball?

Team Play: The Future of Pickleball?

Understanding the Team Play Format

The Appeal of Doubles Play

Fans Responding Positively

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title