Major League Pickleball Orlando Preview: The 2025 Major League Pickleball season kicks off April 24–27 in Orlando, and a preview podcast hosted by Hannah Johns offers insights into what fans can expect. Featuring panelists Johnny Barth, Jim Clauss, and team owner Kaitlyn Kerr, the discussion highlighted key changes, top teams, and standout players.
Season Begins with New Rules and Bigger Teams
The new season will feature major changes. Teams will grow from four to six players. This aims to improve team depth and raise competition levels. Another big shift: matches will use side out scoring instead of rally scoring, a first in league history. This change could affect player strategy and match pace. Kaitlyn Kerr, a team owner, explained, “This year’s switch to six-player teams and side out scoring will change everything. It’s going to push teams to be more strategic and deepen their rosters.”
Big Offseason Moves and Opening Matchups
The offseason saw several major player trades. One of the most talked-about matchups is between the New Jersey 5s and the defending champs, the Dallas Flash. The Flash will try to repeat their title win under the new format changes.
“The Dallas Flash are still the team to beat,” said analyst Jim Clauss. He added that their “strong roster” and “solid chemistry” from last season will give them an edge.
Dallas Flash Ready to Defend Title
The Dallas Flash remain favorites. Jim Clauss believes their unity and past success give them a strong chance at defending their championship.
“There’s something to be said about team continuity,” he said. “That chemistry helped them win last year, and it might carry them again.”
Kaitlyn Kerr agreed, noting that “the returning core of the Flash gives them a clear advantage early in the season.”
New Teams and Stars on the Rise
The St. Louis Shock are another team to watch. With standout player Kate Fahey returning, they’ve strengthened their lineup.
Kaitlyn said, “The Shock made smart moves this offseason. Kate’s return adds power to their lineup.”
The Carolina Hogs team also received attention. With Ben Johns and Collin Johns playing key roles, they are expected to be strong contenders.
Why Female Players Could Decide the Season
The podcast emphasized how important female players are to team success. Johnny Barth pointed out, “A well-balanced team with strong female players can outperform a team full of stars who don’t click.”
Jim added, “In MLP, team chemistry matters more than just talent. That’s where strong female players can shift the balance.”
What to Expect This Season
The panel ended with bold predictions. Jim sees the Dallas Flash as favorites, but expects strong challenges from others like the St. Louis Shock.
“There’s real depth in this league now,” he said. “Anyone could surprise us.”
Johnny Barth and Kaitlyn Kerr shared picks for possible underdog teams. They believe fans should expect surprises and new rivalries to emerge.
What Comes Next for Pickleball Fans
As the league gets ready to launch in Orlando, the panelists expressed excitement for what lies ahead. Hannah Johns thanked her guests and urged fans to follow the season, which promises new storylines and rising stars.
With new rules and team dynamics, the 2025 season could mark a turning point for Major League Pickleball, offering more action and closer matchups.
News in Brief: Major League Pickleball Orlando Preview
MLP’s 2025 season begins April 24 in Orlando, featuring expanded teams and a new scoring format. A preview podcast with experts discussed title contenders like the Dallas Flash, key trades, and rising stars. Panelists predict a thrilling season with surprises, new rivalries, and a deeper field of talent.
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