2024 Major League Pickleball Draft News & Countering Aggressive Opponents 🏓 | It Feels Right

Summary

In this episode of the podcast, hosts discuss the upcoming Major League Pickleball (MLP) draft, sharing insights on strategies, potential player contracts, and the balance between team and individual play. They also touch on the excitement surrounding the North Carolina Open, with notable players returning and new team configurations. The conversation highlights the dynamic nature of the sport, the evolving format of MLP, and the anticipation for future events.

Takeaways

• 🏓 The discussion primarily revolves around pickleball, with a focus on the Major League Pickleball (MLP) mechanics, draft, and bidding process.
• 🎾 Selkirk's is highlighted as the official net of the PPA tour, offering quality play for all levels with various net options catering to different player needs.
• 🤔 The hosts contemplate the strategy of defending the shake and bake in pickleball, emphasizing the importance of court positioning and first volley technique.
• 🏆 The upcoming PPA event in North Carolina is previewed, with notable players returning and new team combinations being a key point of interest.
• 👶 Personal life updates are shared, including experiences with parenting and its impact on professional performance.
• 💡 The conversation touches on the potential of using technology and spin in the game to maintain strategic elements and keep the original intent of pickleball alive.
• 🔄 The draft process for MLP is detailed, with Premier and Challenger leagues having different mechanisms - auction-style for Premier and snake draft for Challenger.
• 🤝 The importance of team chemistry and balance is discussed, with trades being possible between the Premier and Challenger divisions.
• 🏠 Mention of a potential home and away team-based league is made, emphasizing community involvement and local support.
• 🌟 The continuous evolution of the game format and rules is highlighted, aiming to balance casual viewership and professional strategy.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in the podcast?

The main topic of discussion in the podcast is the Major League Pickleball (MLP) mechanics, draft process, bidding system, and an upcoming tournament in North Carolina.

What is the 'shake and bake' strategy in pickleball?

The 'shake and bake' strategy in pickleball refers to an aggressive playstyle where the team aims to win points quickly by hitting hard and fast shots, often resulting in quick rallies and points.

How does the bidding process work in the MLP draft?

In the MLP draft, teams bid using a virtual currency (Monopoly money) to secure a specific draft slot. Each team starts with $500,000 and has the option to purchase an additional $500,000, capping their overall money at $1 million for the draft.

What is the role of the PPA tour in relation to pickleball equipment?

The PPA tour is considered the official net of excellence and professional play in pickleball. Selkirk, a brand mentioned in the podcast, is the official net of the PPA tour, indicating that their products meet the standards of professional play.

What changes are being discussed for future MLP events?

Future MLP events are considering full rally scoring with games played to 25 without any freeze, meaning there will be no opportunity for a team to catch up if they are behind.

What is the significance of the upcoming North Carolina PPA event?

The upcoming North Carolina PPA event is significant as it marks a return to action for many players after a break, and it will feature a mix of top players and new pairings in both men's and mixed doubles.

What are some of the challenges faced by players in defending against the 'shake and bake' strategy?

Defending against the 'shake and bake' strategy can be challenging due to the speed and spin of the balls, making it difficult to predict and return shots. Players need to focus on court positioning, the height and depth of their returns, and sometimes opting to let balls go out rather than risking unforced errors.

How does the host of the podcast feel about the current state and future of MLP?

The host of the podcast is optimistic about the current state and future of MLP. He appreciates the mix of standard tournaments and team formats and believes that finding the right balance between the two is ideal. He also thinks that the league is moving in the right direction and is excited about upcoming events and drafts.

What is the hosts' opinion on the potential of DJ Young in the upcoming draft?

The host believes that DJ Young could be a sleeper pick in the upcoming draft. He suggests that the recent addition of a child to DJ's life could provide the motivation (a 'sleeper' factor) for DJ to perform at a higher level.

What are some notable player pairings and changes for the North Carolina PPA event?

Notable player pairings and changes for the North Carolina PPA event include the return of Tyson McGuffin and James Ignatius after injuries, new pairings in women's doubles with Lucy Kovallova and Callie Smith teaming up with different partners, and the defending medalists in men's doubles, Steve Dink and a partner, returning for the event.