National Pickleball League Plans to Add Two New Teams for 2025 Season

The National Pickleball League (NPL) continues its rapid growth, announcing plans to add at least two new teams, with the possibility of four, for the 2025 season.

This expansion will increase the number of teams in the nationwide Champions Pro (age 50+) pickleball league to a minimum of 14, further solidifying its position as the premier league for professional 50+ pickleball players.

In search of owners and cities

As part of this expansion, the NPL is actively evaluating potential ownership groups, host cities, and top-tier indoor facilities to determine the best fit for the new teams. Unlike other leagues, the NPL holds all tournaments in indoor venues, ensuring a more consistent playing experience and avoiding disruptions caused by weather.

Michael Chen, NPL Co-Founder, expressed his excitement about the upcoming expansion:

“Adding two new teams for a second consecutive year demonstrates the great momentum our league is experiencing. With pickleball growing at an unprecedented pace nationwide, our decision to open the process for new expansion teams, owners, and host facilities reinforces the NPL’s status as a premier destination for professional pickleball.”

About the National Pickleball League

The league launched in 2023 with six teams, including the Austin Ignite (Austin, TX), Boca Raton Picklers (Boca Raton, FL), and OKC Punishers (Oklahoma City, OK). After a successful inaugural season, the NPL expanded to 12 teams, adding the likes of the Houston Hammers (Houston, TX) and Coachella Valley Scorpions (Coachella Valley, CA), where Hollywood star Vince Vaughn serves as the majority stake owner.

The 2024 season will conclude at the Championship Weekend, held from October 17-20 at The Pickle Lodge outside Cincinnati. All 12 teams will compete for the $150,000 prize pool and the prestigious NPL Championship Trophy, with the Indy Drivers looking to defend their 2023 title.