MLP Player Keeper Deadline: The deadline for teams to retain players for the 2025 Major League Pickleball (MLP) season has officially passed, finalizing roster decisions ahead of the upcoming drafts. Teams had the option to keep up to three players from last season while paying MLP a percentage of their initial draft capital.
Rules for Player Retention
To be eligible for retention, a player had to meet specific criteria. They must have been under contract with the United Pickleball Association (UPA) through at least 2025, selected in the 2024 draft, never waived during the season, and must have finished the year on a team roster.
Each team was required to drop at least one player by the deadline, ensuring turnover in the league. Players who were dropped, along with other UPA-contracted athletes not currently on an MLP roster, will enter the draft process in early March.
Premier and Challenger Drafts Set for March
The upcoming MLP Premier Level and Challenger Level drafts are scheduled for March 2 and 3. During these drafts, teams will select from the pool of available players to build out their rosters for the 2025 season.
Keeper costs varied depending on the player’s original draft position and acquisition circumstances. Players selected in the 2024 Challenger draft or acquired via waivers had no keeper cost, allowing teams greater flexibility in their roster management.
What’s Next for Teams and Players
With retention decisions finalized, teams now shift their focus to the draft, where new talent and returning players will shape the league’s competitive landscape for the 2025 season. The decisions made at the Player Keeper Deadline will play a crucial role in shaping team strategies and roster compositions.
News in Brief: MLP Player Keeper Deadline
The MLP Player Keeper Deadline has passed, finalizing rosters ahead of the 2025 season. Teams kept up to three players, following specific eligibility rules. Dropped players will enter the draft pool, with Premier and Challenger drafts scheduled for March 2 and 3. Keeper costs varied based on draft position and acquisition history.
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