What Now? | The MLP & PPA Feud Continues - Ep. 22

 

"Unraveling the Pickleball Feud: Inside Perspectives from Tyler Loong and Jimmy Miller"

5:20 - Quick MLP v PPA Feud Summary In a recent video interview that has sent shockwaves through the pickleball community, Tyler Loong and Jimmy Miller, prominent figures in the sport, delved into the ongoing feud between two major pickleball tours, the Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA). The discussion provided valuable insights into the dynamics of this rivalry and shed light on the latest developments in the world of professional pickleball.

6:20 - The Johnson Clan Signs w/MLP One of the most significant announcements made during the interview was the decision of the Johnson Clan, comprising J Dub, Georgia, Gabe Tardio, Milly Rayne, and Dylan Frazier, to sign with MLP. Tyler Loong shared details about the negotiations, revealing that it was a complex process involving multiple offers and counteroffers. The Johnsons' move to MLP added considerable firepower to the tour, with experts citing JW and Dylan as a potent doubles team. "JW and Dylan are probably the clear-cut number two doubles team," Tyler Loong emphasized. The signing also raised questions about future partnerships, with speculation that Gabe Tardio might eventually become JW's partner. The Johnson Clan's decision significantly bolstered MLP's roster, further intensifying the competition between the two tours. 14:00 - Are Any Pros Still Holding Out? As the discussion continued, Tyler and Jimmy addressed the status of other professional players who were yet to commit to either tour. They highlighted the inflation in player demands, with pickleball pros now seeking larger contracts than ever before. Players who were once content with $50,000 offers are now negotiating for $150,000 or more. This shift in the market has made it challenging for both tours to secure top talent.

Loong commented, "There are pros who are keeping their options open, waiting to see which tour will come out on top. It's a challenging decision, given the uncertainty surrounding the future of both tours." 17:30 - Jimmy Changes His Mind During the interview, Jimmy Miller admitted that he had initially favored MLP but later shifted his stance. He emphasized that both tours had their merits and that players should choose the one that best aligns with their goals and preferences. This shift in perspective showcased the complexity of the decision-making process for professional players. 18:20 - Are Tyler & Jimmy Pardoe Puppets? Addressing concerns of bias, Tyler and Jimmy clarified their positions. Tyler Loong, who had been accused of being a "Pardoe puppet" due to his affiliation with the PPA, highlighted that he had actively assisted players in signing contracts with both tours. He stressed the importance of objectivity and acknowledged that both tours had their strengths. 24:30 - Which Tour Will Prevail in the Long Run? The conversation turned towards the long-term outlook for professional pickleball. Tyler Loong shared his revised prediction, suggesting that instead of a merger, one tour might eventually acquire the assets of the other. This prediction, if realized, could reshape the landscape of professional pickleball, consolidating the sport under one dominant tour.

Tyler suggested, "It's difficult to predict, but we might see the rivalry persist for some time, with both tours vying for player loyalty and viewership." Jimmy countered, "I believe that, in the end, we'll find a way to coexist, as both tours have their strengths. It's a matter of finding common ground." 29:00 - Potential MLP & APP Merger The interview also touched on the possibility of a merger between MLP and the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP). While this merger could potentially create a third major tour, it remains uncertain if it will materialize. The pickleball community eagerly awaits further developments in this regard. 33:55 - MLP Atlanta - Is it Still Happening? Tyler and Jimmy discussed MLP Atlanta, an event that has been eagerly anticipated by fans. They provided updates on its status, hinting that it might still be in the works. The fate of MLP Atlanta could significantly impact the future of professional pickleball events.

Jimmy remarked, "Atlanta is still on the table, but there are many moving parts. We hope that it will proceed as planned, but we'll have to wait and see." 36:50 - Pros Speaking Out Against MLP & PPA The interview wrapped up with Tyler and Jimmy highlighting instances of professionals speaking out against both tours. They emphasized the importance of open dialogue and encouraged players to express their opinions while maintaining a respectful discourse.

Tyler highlighted, "It's essential to have open conversations about the issues in our sport. Players sharing their thoughts and concerns can help guide the future of professional pickleball." 41:00 - Q & A The interview concluded with a Q & A session, allowing viewers to engage directly with Tyler and Jimmy. Questions ranged from the future of specific players to the potential for additional tours and events. In this illuminating interview, Tyler Loong and Jimmy Miller provided valuable insights into the ongoing feud between MLP and PPA, the decisions of key players, and the evolving landscape of professional pickleball. As the rivalry continues to unfold, the pickleball community eagerly anticipates the next chapters in this ever-evolving saga.