Kevin Durant Joins the Pickleball Revolution: A Look at His Ownership of a Major League Pickleball Team

Kevin Durant Joins the Pickleball Revolution: A Look at H...

By Jocelyn Alano November 27, 2023 03:53

In a surprising move, basketball superstar Kevin Durant has ventured beyond the court and joined the ranks of superstar athletes who own a pickleball team. Durant, along with his manager Rich Kleiman, has become the owner of a Major League Pickleball (MLP) expansion team through their company, Thirty Five Ventures. This article will delve into Durant's unexpected foray into pickleball ownership, his plans for the team, and the impact he aims to make in the growing sport.

Durant's Journey into Pickleball Ownership: Kevin Durant expressed his surprise at becoming involved in pickleball, citing his initial introduction to the sport through playing with his manager, Rich Kleiman. What started as a casual experience soon turned into a "small passion" for Durant, leading him to explore the idea of ownership in the sport. Alongside Kleiman, Durant seized the opportunity to purchase an expansion team in the MLP, thus becoming a prominent figure in the pickleball community.
Thirty Five Ventures Takes Charge: Through their company, Thirty Five Ventures, Durant and Kleiman will be fully immersed in the management of their pickleball team. As owners, they will be responsible for various aspects, including marketing, player relations, sponsorships, and merchandise. With their expertise and resources, the duo aims to ensure the team's success from day one, by carefully selecting the right players and representing a city for the team to call home.
The Growing Popularity of Pickleball: The MLP has seen significant growth since its inception in 2021. Founder Steve Kuhn expressed his excitement at having Durant and Thirty Five Ventures join the league, highlighting their history of team ownership. With pickleball gaining popularity worldwide, the league is set to expand to 16 teams in 2023, indicating the sport's increasing appeal and potential for further development.
Financial Opportunities and Social Impact: By acquiring a pickleball team, Durant and Kleiman also gain equity in the MLP, allowing them to capitalize on the financial opportunities that come with the league's growth. The MLP plans to offer prize money exceeding $2 million, attracting top talent and elevating the competition. Additionally, Durant plans to leverage his position to bring pickleball to underserved communities, further promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the sport.
Thirty Five Ventures' Role in Promoting Pickleball: Thirty Five Ventures, known for its media network, The Boardroom, plans to utilize its platform to promote pickleball and increase its visibility. By leveraging their media network, Durant and Kleiman aim to attract new fans and sponsors, contributing to the overall growth and popularity of the sport. This strategic approach highlights Durant's commitment to not only his team's success but also the sport's broader development.

Kevin Durant's ownership of a Major League Pickleball expansion team through Thirty Five Ventures signifies his commitment to diversifying his sporting portfolio and embracing new opportunities. By venturing into pickleball ownership, Durant aims to leave a lasting impact on the sport, both on and off the court. With pickleball's growing popularity and the league's expansion plans, Durant's involvement is poised to further elevate the status of the sport and attract a wider audience. As the MLP continues to thrive, Durant and Kleiman's ownership will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of their pickleball team and contribute to the sport's ongoing success.

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