Chicago Slice Kicks Off 2025 Pro Pickleball Season: The 2025 Professional Pickleball League season launched in Orlando with the Chicago Slice, a two-time league champion, among the teams kicking off the competition. The league, modeled after traditional sports leagues, brings together 26 teams from across the United States for a summer-long battle leading to single-elimination playoffs in August.
Big Start for Major League Pickleball
Major League Pickleball (MLP) began its 2025 season with high energy and strong competition. The event was held in Orlando and marked the first of six stops in the league calendar. The Chicago Slice, known for their past championship success, returned to compete among the top teams in the league.
The league has two divisions: the 16-team Premier Division and the 10-team Challenger League. Teams represent cities from coast to coast and play one or two matches per event. After six events, the top 10 teams advance to a single-elimination playoff.
How the Matches Work
Each team in the league includes male and female athletes. Matches are played in a co-ed team format that includes four doubles matches: one men’s, one women’s, and two mixed doubles games.
If the teams are tied after these four matches, they play a “dream breaker” match to decide the winner. The Chicago Slice follows this structure and continues to highlight inclusivity and team dynamics in a sport often seen as individual.
From Parks to Pro Courts
One of pickleball’s biggest strengths is how easy it is to start playing. Many future pros begin at local parks or recreation centers. As they improve and reach the 5.0 skill level, players can enter larger tournaments, like those held by the PPA, where amateurs can qualify to face top players.
This open path from beginner to professional means anyone dedicated enough can work their way to the top leagues, including MLP.
Ways to Watch and Get Involved
Fans can follow the season and support their favorite teams on Pickleball TV. The first match of the season airs on a Sunday and all matches play to 11 points, keeping the action fast and exciting.
The season mostly runs through the summer and ends in August with the finals. Viewers are encouraged not only to watch but to try playing pickleball themselves as a way to connect with the sport and its teams, like the Chicago Slice.
Why It Matters
The 2025 season shows how much professional pickleball has grown. With teams from all over the U.S., broadcast coverage, and a playoff format, the league offers fast-paced, team-driven action. The easy entry to the sport and the mix of fun and competition make it a major draw for new players and fans.
News in Brief: Chicago Slice Kicks Off 2025 Pro Pickleball Season
The 2025 Professional Pickleball League kicked off in Orlando with Chicago Slice competing. The league features 26 U.S.-based teams, with matches aired on Pickleball TV. The season ends with playoffs in August. Fans are encouraged to get involved by watching and playing this fast-growing, inclusive sport.
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