Ben Johns One Brand Management Deal: Pickleball champion Ben Johns has signed with The One Brand Management, a Detroit-based sports and entertainment talent agency. The agency, founded by Janelle Rivera in 2023, will manage Johns’ marketing partnerships and brand deals. The focus will be on technology companies and luxury lifestyle brands.
A New Partnership
Ben Johns, ranked No. 1 in men’s doubles and mixed doubles on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour, did not have marketing representation before this deal. Financial details of the agreement were not shared.
Janelle Rivera, who previously worked at WME and ISE, founded The One Brand Management as a boutique agency. Johns is the first pickleball player and racket sports athlete to join its roster. The agency also represents NFL and MLB players, as well as influencers.
Johns’ Business Ventures
Alongside his playing career, Ben Johns has built a strong presence in pickleball-related businesses. He co-founded Pickleball Getaways, which offers travel experiences around the sport. He also launched JDC Pickleball, a consultancy, and Pickleball 360, a training platform.
Johns already holds a lifetime partnership with paddle sports equipment brand Joola, a deal that was signed before his new representation agreement.
Looking Ahead
By teaming up with The One Brand Management, Ben Johns is expected to expand his influence beyond the pickleball court. The move signals a push to connect the sport with bigger industries, from technology to luxury brands, and may help pickleball gain more visibility in mainstream markets.
News in Brief: Ben Johns One Brand Management Deal
Ben Johns, the world’s top pickleball player, has signed with The One Brand Management for marketing and brand deals. Founded by Janelle Rivera, the agency will focus on luxury and tech partnerships. Johns, also an entrepreneur, joins as the first pickleball athlete on the agency’s roster.
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