SoCal Hard Eights vs Los Angeles Mad Drops: The SoCal Hard Eights will meet the Los Angeles Mad Drops in the first match of the weekend at the 2025 Major League Pickleball season event at the 2025 MLP Phoenix, hosted at the Arizona Athletic Grounds. The match will take place on Grandstand Court.
View this post on Instagram
Hard Eights Still Seeking First Win
The SoCal Hard Eights have started the season with three losses and just one point in the standings. They are hoping to earn their first win this weekend.
The team will see the return of Irina Tereschenko, who missed Thursday’s match. Jalina Ingram filled in for her and made her Major League Pickleball debut.
Irina Tereschenko is expected to bring experience and strength back to the Hard Eights’ women’s and mixed doubles pairings.
Mad Drops Adjust Without Quang Duong
The Los Angeles Mad Drops hold a 2-3 record with seven points. However, they will be missing Quang Duong in this matchup. Quang Duong was suspended earlier this week by the United Pickleball Association for joining a non-PPA event. To fill his place, the team will use on-site alternate Spencer Smith.
Match Pairings Announced
The following matchups are set:
| Match Type | SoCal Hard Eights | vs | Los Angeles Mad Drops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women’s Doubles | Judit Castillo / Irina Tereschenko | vs | Catherine Parenteau / Jade Kawamoto |
| Men’s Doubles | Ryan Fu / Blaine Hovenier | vs | Hunter Johnson / Spencer Smith |
| Mixed Doubles 1 | Judit Castillo / Ryan Fu | vs | Jade Kawamoto / Hunter Johnson |
| Mixed Doubles 2 | Irina Tereschenko / Blaine Hovenier | vs | Catherine Parenteau / Spencer Smith |
Importance of the Match
This match gives the SoCal Hard Eights a chance to get on track and earn their first win. For the Los Angeles Mad Drops, it is a test of how well they can perform without Quang Duong. A win for either team could help shift momentum as the season continues.
News in Brief: SoCal Hard Eights vs Los Angeles Mad Drops
The SoCal Hard Eights play the Los Angeles Mad Drops on Grandstand Court at the 2025 MLP Phoenix. The Hard Eights are 0-3 and will welcome back Irina Tereschenko. The Mad Drops will play without suspended player Quang Duong and will use Spencer Smith as a substitute.