Los Angeles Mad Drops Unveil New Roster: The Los Angeles Mad Drops will take on the Brooklyn Pickleball Team in the first match of the week at the 2025 MLP Phoenix, held at the Arizona Athletic Grounds. This match on Thursday marks the return of both teams to Major League Pickleball after a break following the 2025 MLP Orlando in April.
The Brooklyn Pickleball Team comes in with a 2-3 record and 8 points. The Los Angeles Mad Drops hold a 1-2 record and 4 points. Both teams are looking to gain momentum early in this leg of the 2025 season.
Mad Drops Make Roster Changes
The Los Angeles Mad Drops will be without Quang Duong for this matchup. On Wednesday, the United Pickleball Association suspended Duong for playing in a non-PPA event. As a result, Spencer Smith, the team’s on-site alternate, will take his place on the court.
In another update, the Mad Drops completed a trade earlier this week. They sent Angie Walker to the Bay Area Breakers. In return, they received Danna Funaro and cash considerations. Danna Funaro now joins Catherine Parenteau and Jade Kawamoto as the third female player on the Los Angeles roster.
Upcoming Matchups Set
The match features key doubles contests:
| Match Type | Los Angeles Mad Drops | vs | Brooklyn Pickleball Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women’s Double | Catherine Parenteau / Jade Kawamoto | vs | Rachel Rohrabacher / Jackie Kawamoto |
| Men’s Double | Hunter Johnson / Spencer Smith | vs | Dekel Bar / Riley Newman |
| Mixed Double 1 | Catherine Parenteau / Spencer Smith | vs | Jackie Kawamoto / Riley Newman |
| Mixed Double 2 | Jade Kawamoto / Hunter Johnson | vs | Rachel Rohrabacher / Dekel Bar |
This contest is important for both teams as they return to action. Los Angeles will need to adjust to recent changes in their lineup, while Brooklyn will look to stay ahead in the standings. The outcome could shape the direction of the Premier Level as the season progresses.
News in Brief: Los Angeles Mad Drops Unveil New Roster
Los Angeles Mad Drops face Brooklyn Pickleball Team in the first match of the 2025 MLP Phoenix at the Arizona Athletic Grounds. Spencer Smith replaces suspended player Quang Duong. Danna Funaro joins the Mad Drops after a trade. Key doubles matchups have been confirmed as both teams resume play after a month-long break.