Pt. II: Pickleball Industry in Chaos | This Pickleball Life (Ep. 21)

 

Jill Braverman's Journey: Why She Chose MLP Over PPA In a recent turn of events within the rapidly growing world of pickleball, Jill Braverman, former CEO of DUPR and Chief of Staff at Major League Pickleball (MLP) from January to March 2023, made a significant decision that sent shockwaves through the industry. On her, "This Pickleball Life" Episode 21 Podcast, Braverman revealed her rationale behind choosing MLP over the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA).

Braverman, a seasoned pro in the pickleball circuit, made headlines when she signed with MLP despite receiving a more lucrative offer from the PPA. Her decision boiled down to several critical factors, highlighting her deep commitment to the sport and the future she envisions for it. One pivotal reason for Braverman's choice was MLP's consistent dedication to player welfare. She recounted numerous instances where MLP demonstrated their commitment, from the quality of food and on-site trainers to rapid payment processing. "How you do anything is how you do everything," Braverman emphasized, underscoring the importance of an organization that prioritizes player well-being. It's clear that MLP's attention to detail in catering to players left a lasting impression. Another significant factor was Braverman's belief in MLP's visionary approach to pickleball. She expressed confidence in Steve Kuhn, MLP's head, who she sees as an industry visionary. "Steve is so far down the road of creatively thinking about the game," Braverman noted. She cited Steve's innovative ideas, like shot clocks for dinking rallies and a focus on rally scoring, as evidence of his dedication to the sport's future.

Furthermore, Braverman touched upon the alignment of interests, emphasizing the importance of her equity in MLP. "It would have felt really weird to have this misalignment in my interests," she remarked. Her decision was about more than just personal gain; it was about ensuring that her financial interests were in harmony with her playing career.

MLP operates as a single entity league, where all team owners own a percentage of the league. This unique approach fosters a sense of collective responsibility among the owners to uplift the league as a whole. Braverman emphasized, "It's really about how do we do best for the league first and foremost." This collaborative spirit aligns with her vision of building a sustainable and prosperous future for the sport.

The success story of MLS (Major League Soccer) also played a significant role in Braverman's decision-making process. She drew parallels between MLS and MLP, highlighting the similarities in their growth trajectories. With teams like the LA Football Club and Inter Miami experiencing substantial increases in valuation and revenue, it's evident that the right management and strategic decisions can lead to remarkable success in the sports industry. In a sport evolving at breakneck speed, Braverman's move to MLP represents a player who understands the importance of being in the right place at the right time. The new rally scoring format seems to suit her game perfectly, and she acknowledged that MLP was where she truly felt at home. As pickleball continues its meteoric rise in popularity, Jill Braverman's decision serves as a testament to the critical role that player-centric organizations and visionary leadership play in shaping the sport's future. In the face of a more financially tempting offer, her choice to embrace MLP underscores the significance of aligning values, vision, and interests in the pursuit of greatness in the world of pickleball.