Tyson McGuffin Pickleball Trade Fallout: Tyson McGuffin’s move from the Utah Black Diamonds to the Phoenix Flames came under scrutiny after Utah defeated Phoenix 3-1 on Friday in the 2025 Major League Pickleball season. McGuffin, who left the Diamonds without playing a match, lost both of his matches in the showdown.
History Behind the Trade
The Utah Black Diamonds made headlines in 2024 when they traded Tyson McGuffin to the Orlando Squeeze just days after selecting him. In return, they received Jay Devilliers and $50,000. Many questioned the move, especially why the Diamonds picked McGuffin at all.
It was later revealed that Tyson McGuffin refused to play with Tyler Loong due to past issues. This tension forced Utah to trade him. McGuffin never took the court for the Diamonds.
Changes Ahead of the 2025 Season
Neither team reached the playoffs in 2024. Ahead of 2025, the Utah Black Diamonds restructured their squad. They kept Tyler Loong and added Allyce Jones and Genie Erokhina.
Tyson McGuffin, meanwhile, found a new place with the Phoenix Flames. He joined Jack Sock, Jessie Irvine, and Genie Bouchard.
When Phoenix played Utah on Friday night, it wasn’t just a regular match. It carried emotion and history. For Utah, it was a chance to beat a player who chose to walk away. For McGuffin, it was a test to prove he made the right move.
Utah Wins, McGuffin Struggles
Utah Black Diamonds came out on top, winning the match 3-1. Tyson McGuffin failed to win in both of his matches, missing his chance to shine against his old team.
Current standings show Utah ahead in the race. The Black Diamonds are averaging 1.40 points per match, while the Phoenix Flames are at 0.82 points per match.
What It Means Going Forward
The debate around Tyson McGuffin’s exit from Utah continues. If the Utah Black Diamonds make the playoffs and the Phoenix Flames do not, fans will likely keep questioning his decision.
News in Brief: Tyson McGuffin Pickleball Trade Fallout
Tyson McGuffin lost both matches as the Phoenix Flames fell to his former team, the Utah Black Diamonds, 3-1 on Friday in the 2025 MLP season. With Utah showing better form and higher average points, McGuffin’s 2024 decision to leave remains a hot topic as the season unfolds.
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