The rumors are true. In this episode, Rick and Fabian break down the biggest payday in pickleball history: Anna Leigh Waters’ $10 million deal with Franklin and her massive new partnership with Nike. We also track the "Paddle Shuffle" chaos—who went to Friday, Luz, and Faos?
But this episode isn't just about business. Rick gets vulnerable in a deep segment about the origin of the Ripsken brand, sharing the spiritual connection between his late brother, Todd Witsken, and tennis superstar Ben Shelton.
Finally, we head to the courts for a reality check: Rick explains why your obsession with "winning" Rec Play games is actually destroying your improvement.
ADD US ON:
INSTAGRAM: / thisispickleballpodcast
Timestamps
00:00 Intro: IU Football Hype
05:07 ALW’s $10M Contract & Nike Deal
06:18 The Paddle Shuffle: Friday, Luzz, & Facolos
12:33 New Partnerships in Pickleball
21:24 The Ripsken Story: Ben Shelton & The Eagle
30:30 Rick’s Coaching Tip: The Truth About Rec Play
34:31 Fixing Toxic Club Culture
40:31 Teaser for the Next Segment: Lessons from Investing in Pickleball