North Carolina is gearing up for a thrilling collision of athletic prowess as some of the state's brightest sports stars converge to compete in the fastest-growing sport in the nation.
Set against the Cary Tennis Park backdrop, the North Carolina Pickleball Pro-Am promises an afternoon of electrifying action on Saturday, April 6, from 2-3 p.m. ET.
Who is participating?
The event will feature athletes from several sports, including Carolina Hurricanes (NHL) head coach Rod Brind’Amour, alongside former players Cam Ward and Justin Williams. Joining them is UNC basketball legend Tyler Hansbrough, tennis and pickleball stars Genie Bouchard and Jack Sock, along with other top PPA Tour pros.
"Raleigh is a passionate sports community that will be a great host for a professional pickleball event," said Brind’Amour. "I’m excited to compete against some legendary North Carolina athletes including some of my former teammates, and to measure our skills against the pros."
Information about the players
Brind’Amour is the first head coach in Carolina Hurricanes' franchise history to clinch the Jack Adams Award (the league's top coach). He also had an illustrious playing career spanning two decades, which included leading the Hurricanes to a Stanley Cup championship in 2006.
Cam Ward's stellar performance during the Hurricanes' historic championship triumph in 2006 cemented his legacy as one of the most formidable goaltenders in NHL history. Meanwhile, Justin Williams boasts an impressive resume, with three Stanley Cup triumphs and a reputation for clutch performances, making him a force to be reckoned with on the ice.
Tyler Hansbrough, a UNC legend, brings his unparalleled talent and experience to the mix, while Jack Sock and Genie Bouchard are distinguished tennis stars turned pickleball pros.
The event will coincide with the PPA Tour
The event comes on the semifinal Saturday of the Fanatics Sportsbook North Carolina Cup, a prime stop on the Carvana PPA Tour.
Additionally, pickleball fans from across the area can sign up to "Play Where the Pros Play" in amateur competitions of various ages and skill levels.
Where to watch
The exhibition will broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video, while the North Carolina Cup can be seen on PickleballTV (also available through Amazon) and YouTube.
