Collegiate Pickleball Rankings 2024: Collegiate pickleball continues to evolve as the sport gains traction nationwide. The 2024 Power Rankings highlight programs that have set themselves apart with talent, teamwork, and growth. From the high-altitude courts of Utah to the southern charm of North Carolina, these universities represent the pinnacle of collegiate pickleball this year.
Utah Valley University Claims the Top Spot
Utah Valley University (UVU) has ascended to the pinnacle of the rankings with a dominant rating of 5.451, showing its consistency and strategic prowess on the court. Their leadership and depth across the roster have made them a team to watch.
Utah Tech University Keeps the Pressure On
Not far behind, Utah Tech University lands at number two with a 5.351 rating. Known for their defensive resilience and adaptability, they’ve proven they can compete at the highest level, making the competition in Utah particularly fierce.
Southeastern Talent Makes Waves
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) secures the third spot with a 5.243 rating, combining athleticism with a fast-paced style of play. Meanwhile, Samford University in Alabama boasts a 5.079 rating, earning them fourth place and recognition as one of the most disciplined squads this season.
Texas Dominates the Middle Tier
The Lone Star State sees the University of Texas – Austin ranked fifth with a 5.061 rating, followed closely by Utah State University (5.06) and Texas Christian University (5.041). These programs represent the growing strength of pickleball in Texas and the Mountain West region.
Tar Heels and Cavaliers Round Out the Top Ten
UNC Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, perennial powerhouses in collegiate sports, secure the eighth and ninth spots with ratings of 5.034 and 4.998, respectively. The University of Virginia, known for its meticulous training programs, completes the top ten with a 4.92 rating.
| Rank | College | Rating |
| 1 | Utah Valley University | 5.451 |
| 2 | Utah Tech University | 5.351 |
| 3 | Florida Atlantic University | 5.243 |
| 4 | Samford University | 5.079 |
| 5 | University of Texas – Austin | 5.061 |
| 6 | Utah State University | 5.06 |
| 7 | Texas Christian University | 5.041 |
| 8 | UNC Chapel Hill | 5.034 |
| 9 | North Carolina State University | 4.998 |
| 10 | University of Virginia | 4.92 |
News in Brief: Collegiate Pickleball Rankings 2024
The 2024 Collegiate Pickleball Power Rankings highlight Utah Valley University as the nation’s top program with a stellar 5.451 rating. Utah Tech and Florida Atlantic follow in second and third, showing the sport’s geographical spread and competitive depth.
The top ten schools, including programs in Texas, North Carolina, and Virginia, show the diverse growth of collegiate pickleball as it continues to expand nationwide.
Readers Queries
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What is the highest pickleball rank?
Pickleball ratings vary from 1.0 to 6.0+, with a 1.0 rating (or skill level) being used for beginner players and a 6.0+ rating (or skill level) being reserved for the very best professional pickleball players. However, in the case of one rating system, the scale goes all the way to 8.0.
2. What is the biggest prize money in pickleball?
The Carvana PPA Tour is setting a new record in professional pickleball with an initial player payout floor of $5.5 million. This represents an 83.3% increase from the $3 million distributed in 2022, with additional payouts expected throughout the season.
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