Genie Bouchard’s MLP Move Sparking Social Media Debate: On October 2nd, 2024, former tennis star Genie Bouchard officially joined the Utah Black Diamonds, a Premier Level team in Major League Pickleball (MLP). While several roster moves occurred that day, Bouchard’s signing became the biggest topic of conversation on social media. Her transition from tennis to pickleball has stirred reactions from fans and players, making her the center of attention in the pickleball world.
How Genie Bouchard Became a Black Diamond
Bouchard’s journey to the Utah Black Diamonds began with a series of trades during the MLP trade deadline on Sunday. The Black Diamonds made multiple moves, starting with trading Callie Smith to the Sliders for Andrea Koop and cash considerations.
Then, Koop was sent to the Aces in exchange for Lina Padegimaite, who was quickly traded to the Black Bears for Genie Erokhina. After waiving Erokhina, Utah’s owner, Connor Pardoe, hinted that they were planning to sign a player off the waiver wire, leading to the acquisition of Bouchard.
🚨MLP Waiver Wire – Pick 1🚨
With the 1st pick of the FINAL @MajorLeaguePB Waiver Period, The Utah Black Diamonds have picked up @geniebouchard.
Bouchard will join Connor Garnett, Tyler Loong, and Alix Truong in the last event for the Black Diamonds – MLP Las Vegas. Since they…
— Erik Tice (@azetice) October 2, 2024
Reactions Across the Pickleball Community
As the news spread, reactions poured in from across the pickleball community. Kaitlyn Kerr, also known as “Pickleball Chick,” and Jimmy Miller, GM of the Black Bears, were among the first to comment on the move. While their responses were neutral, other voices expressed more skepticism. Critics questioned whether Bouchard was ready for a Premier Level spot in MLP, pointing out that Utah had already been eliminated from playoff competition and might be looking to build its brand rather than its competitive strength.
With the first pick in the Premier waiver wire period for @MajorLeaguePB , Utah Black Diamonds @connorpardoe_pb selects @geniebouchard 🤯
— Pickleball Chick (@pickleballchic) October 2, 2024
Some felt that signing Bouchard was a strategic move for Utah, aimed at using her significant social media presence to boost the team’s profile, even if it wouldn’t lead to immediate wins on the court.
Is the Criticism Justified?
Though Bouchard might not yet be on par with other Premier Level players, her signing brings value in terms of visibility and brand growth for the Utah Black Diamonds. With the season already lost, Utah’s decision seemed less about winning and more about marketing. Bouchard’s millions of followers across various platforms make her a powerful addition in terms of fan engagement and team exposure.
Connor Pardoe defended the move against criticism, explaining that signing Bouchard aligned with the team’s broader goals of building a loyal fan base and creating a buzz around the brand. For Utah, the signing represents a long-term investment.
Connor Pardoe’s Response to the Backlash
In response to the growing criticisms online, Pardoe took to Twitter, standing firm behind the decision to bring Bouchard on board. He acknowledged the mixed reactions but emphasized that this was part of the team’s vision for growth beyond the current season.
Regardless of the backlash, Genie Bouchard is now officially a Premier Level pickleball player, and all eyes will be on her performance in Utah’s final event of the season.
This one is for the UBD haters who are upset about us making trades and being smart with $. …. do you know another team that is investing in a $28M + home facility? Maybe we care the most…. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/RikNLrneX8
— Connor Pardoe (@connorpardoe_pb) October 3, 2024
News in Brief: Genie Bouchard’s MLP Move Sparking Social Media Debate
Former tennis pro Genie Bouchard signed with the Utah Black Diamonds on October 2nd, 2024, marking her official entry into Premier Level Major League Pickleball (MLP). Her signing followed several trades during the MLP deadline, including moves that positioned Utah for a high-profile roster addition.
While the Black Diamonds are no longer in playoff competition, the move was seen as a strategic step to boost the team’s brand. Despite some criticism from fans and experts questioning her readiness, Utah’s owner, Connor Pardoe, defended the decision, stressing long-term benefits for the team.
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