Big Moves in Pro Pickleball: New Investors Join AZ Drive with $10M+ Deal

Big news in the world of pro pickleball! A group of investors has purchased a controlling stake in Arizona-based MLP team AZ Drive, valuing the franchise at over $10 million.

The new ownership group includes Charles Darling and Tim Fyke of Proton Sports, NFL legend Jack Plummer, and financial pro Jeff Tsao. They join existing owners like Larry Fitzgerald, Oz Pearlman, Magnus Carlson, and Doug Hirsch.

Proton Sports, makers of pickleball paddles, is the latest brand to invest in MLP, joining big names like Anheuser-Busch and Lotto. The league has seen incredible growth, generating $50M in revenue in 2024, and more than 75 celebrity investors are involved across 22 franchises.

Exciting things ahead for MLP, with the 2025 season kicking off in Orlando on April 24th! Invest in your own Odyssey Pickleball franchise by contacting Steven Ungar, President, Odyssey Pickleball at steven@odysseypickleball.com

Read the full article at SportsPro.

Major League Pickleball team valued at US$10m following stake sale