Meeting a Local Star
Ryan’s visit to the court provided a unique opportunity to meet Jenny Marcos, a professional pickleball player with the Indy Drivers. Marcos, who transitioned from a successful tennis career to pickleball a few years ago, shared her journey. “So one day, we were playing tennis when this 70-year-old guy comes walking by and he said come and play with me, then we did. From that time on, I decided, you know what it’s time to do it,” Marcos recounted. Her story underscores the sport’s appeal and the personal connections that often ignite a passion for pickleball.
Inside the NPL
Marcos explained the player selection process for the NPL, drawing parallels to traditional sports drafts. “These are teams that are owned by different people or companies and they pre-select their players like in the NBA or MLB,” she said. The league’s structured approach mirrors that of other major sports, aiming to bring a professional edge to the burgeoning pickleball scene.
2024 NPL Season Kicks Off
The 2024 NPL season, which began in May, continues to attract attention as players like Marcos bring their skills to the forefront. The league’s competitive environment promises to elevate the sport further, reflecting pickleball’s increasing significance in the world of professional athletics.
News in Brief: Oklahoma’s Pickleball Star Reveals Journey
News 9’s Jordan Ryan featured a segment with Oklahoma’s professional pickleball player, Jenny Marcos, showcasing the sport’s rapid rise. Marcos, who transitioned from tennis to pickleball, shared her journey with Ryan, recounting how a chance encounter with a fellow player sparked her passion for the game. The National Pickleball League (NPL), which began in 2022, provides a competitive stage for top players and mirrors traditional sports drafts in player selection. Marcos, representing the Indy Drivers, began her 2024 NPL season in May. The segment highlighted the growing popularity of pickleball and the professional opportunities available within the sport.
Also Read: NYC Parks Opens New Pickleball Court in Whitestone’s Francis Lewis Park
