The Major League Pickleball (MLP) is set to host its fifth event of the 2026 season at the St. Pete Athletic Club in St. Petersburg, with a unique twist - all matches will be played on a single court, Championship Court. This has led to an extension of the play schedule by an extra day, with pool play taking place from Wednesday to Saturday, culminating in the Super Sunday finals.
The event features two pools, Pool A and Pool B, each comprising six teams. Pool A includes the Brooklyn Pickleball Team, Chicago Slice, Florida Smash, LA Mad Drops, and Utah Black Diamonds, while Pool B consists of the Columbus Sliders, Miami Pickleball Club, Orlando Squeeze, Palm Beach Royals, St. Louis Shock, and Texas Ranchers. Notably, the Utah Black Diamonds and Miami Pickleball Club switched pools approximately three weeks before the event.
Tice's Top Five Matches to Watch
Erik Tice has identified five key matches to watch during the event, which could have significant implications for the teams' standings. These matches are:
- Texas Ranchers vs. Palm Beach Royals: This match could determine which team gains an advantage in the quest for a top-four seed, with both teams currently ranked sixth and seventh in terms of points per event.
- Miami Pickleball Club vs. Orlando Squeeze: This matchup features Dylan Frazier, who was recently traded to Miami, facing his former team, Orlando Squeeze. The outcome could have significant implications for the teams' standings in Pool B.
- Chicago Slice vs. Utah Black Diamonds: Both teams are hovering around the playoff mark, with Chicago ranked 11th and Utah tied for 12th in terms of points per event. This match could determine which team secures third place in the group.
- Texas Ranchers vs. Columbus Sliders: The Sliders will be playing with Hurricane Tyra Black, who was acquired in a blockbuster trade. A win in this match could be crucial for the Sliders to earn significant points from the event.
- St. Louis Shock vs. Columbus Sliders: St. Louis is the favorite to win Pool B, but the Ranchers and Sliders may pose a challenge. This matchup could determine which team wins the pool and which comes in second.
The event will be broadcast on MSG Network on Sunday, June 21, from 10am ET to 6pm ET. All matches will be played indoors, making the weather inconsequential. Fans can also catch the action on pickleballtv, starting from 11am ET on Wednesday, June 17.
Each team has a strong roster, with notable players including Ben Johns, Catherine Parenteau, and Anna Bright. The event promises to be an exciting one, with several teams vying for a top-four seed and a chance to advance in the MLP standings.
