Pickleball Pro’s Testimony Steals the Spotlight: Adam Cox, a professional pickleball player and instructor, testified on Day 4 of the Arizona trial of Lori Vallow Daybell. Vallow Daybell is accused of conspiring to kill her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, in 2019. Cox is also her brother and appeared in court as a witness.
Cox Introduces Himself to the Jury
During the proceedings, Cox identified his profession in court. “I’m a pro pickleball player and instructor,” said Cox when asked by the jury.
He currently works as the Head Pickleball Pro at Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa, a site that hosts an annual PPA Tour stop. Cox has competed at the 4.0, 4.5, and 5.0 levels and has won both gold and silver medals. His DUPR rating is 5.1.
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Podcast Host and Courtroom Presence
Cox also co-hosts a podcast called the Silver Linings Podcast. The show covers the murder case and provides recaps of the courtroom proceedings. However, he noted that the podcast doesn’t usually focus on pickleball.
After his testimony, trial viewers online reacted strongly—not to the case—but to Cox’s mention of the sport. Reddit users questioned the presence of pickleball in such a serious trial. Some even criticized the sport itself, claiming it had no place in court.
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Online Reaction and Public Response
Critics online accused Cox of using pickleball to gain sympathy from the jury. Others claimed his involvement in the sport reflected poorly on it. Some said the sport was in trouble if players like him were coaches.
Despite the comments, it’s important to note that Cox is a witness, not the person on trial.
Wider Significance and Public Interest
The trial of Lori Vallow Daybell has gained national attention due to its disturbing details and strange twists. With her already serving a life sentence for the murders of her children, the current trial adds another layer to her legal story.
Cox’s connection to both the case and the sport of pickleball brought unexpected attention to the game. It also highlights how public perception can quickly shift online, even in serious legal matters.
News in Brief: Pickleball Pro’s Testimony Steals the Spotlight
Pickleball pro Adam Cox testified in the Arizona murder trial of Lori Vallow Daybell, his sister. Cox, also a podcast host, described his coaching career in court. Online users reacted more to his pickleball background than the case itself, sparking debate about the sport’s role in serious legal matters.
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