Ben Johns Inspires Young Athletes: At the 2025 Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, Michael Frankie from Texas East surprised many by naming professional pickleball player Ben Johns as his favorite athlete. The 12-year-old not only plays baseball but also enjoys playing a lot of pickleball in his free time.
A Unique Pick Among Baseball Stars
While most young players named well-known baseball athletes as their favorites, Michael Frankie chose someone from a different sport. During a televised segment, Frankie said his favorite athlete is Ben Johns. The broadcast even added “Pickleball Player” in parentheses to help viewers recognize the name.
Michael Frankie is one of the standout players from the Texas East team. He is 12 years old and stands four feet, ten inches tall. His choice of athlete shows how pickleball is becoming more popular among younger athletes.
Young Athletes Share Their Favorites
The Little League World Series features players from 20 teams around the world. It is known for exciting games and fun personal stories. Many kids share what makes them unique.
Jaxon Lisle from Oklahoma said he listens to “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins to get ready for games. Holden Disselkoen, another Texas East player, listed Fernando Tatis Jr. as his favorite Major League Baseball player.
Michael Frankie’s answer stood out. His love for pickleball adds a new angle to the stories shared during the tournament.
Growing Interest in Pickleball
Ben Johns is one of the top-ranked pickleball players in the world. Though not as well-known as baseball stars, he is becoming a favorite among young fans like Michael Frankie.
Michael’s mention of Ben Johns during the Little League World Series brings more attention to pickleball. It shows how young athletes are exploring different sports.
News in Brief: Ben Johns Inspires Young Athletes
At the Little League World Series, 12-year-old Michael Frankie from Texas East picked Ben Johns, a top pickleball player, as his favorite athlete. His answer highlighted the growing popularity of pickleball among young players, setting him apart from teammates and opponents who chose baseball stars.
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