With the 2025 MLP Daytona Beach event now over, both the Texas Ranchers and Utah Black Diamonds are in positions to make the playoffs. Although their paths were very different, each team earned enough points to stay in the hunt as the season reaches its halfway mark.
Texas Ranchers Struggle but Stay Alive
The Texas Ranchers did not play at their usual level during the Daytona Beach event. Even in the matches they won, the team struggled to find rhythm and control. Texas lost important matches to the St. Louis Shock and the Los Angeles Mad Drops. Their toughest moment came in a loss to the Carolina Hogs, which had not won a match all season.
Despite their rough weekend, the Texas Ranchers still came away with 11 team points from six matches. That keeps them in a solid playoff position. However, based on their performance in Daytona, Texas does not look like a team ready to make a deep playoff run.
Utah Black Diamonds Show Grit
The Utah Black Diamonds continued to show why they are one of the hardest-working teams in Major League Pickleball. The team may not have the most talent, but they give their best effort on every point.
Utah made a big statement in their first match by beating the New Jersey 5s in a DreamBreaker. Over the course of the event, the Utah Black Diamonds earned eight team points in six matches. That was enough to keep them in ninth place, which is good for a playoff spot.
Utah has shown all season that they never give up. Their strong team spirit and ability to pull off surprise wins make them a dangerous team in the playoff picture.
What This Means for the Playoff Race
Both the Ranchers and Utah Black Diamonds are holding on to playoff spots at the season’s halfway mark. While Texas needs to improve their form, Utah continues to play with heart and effort that keeps them competitive.
Other teams will be keeping an eye on Utah, knowing they can pull off an upset. Texas, on the other hand, will need to regain their form if they hope to go far in the post-season.
News in Brief: Texas Ranchers and Utah Black Diamonds
The Texas Ranchers earned 11 points and kept their playoff hopes alive despite a rough weekend at 2025 MLP Daytona Beach. Utah Black Diamonds grabbed eight points and stayed in ninth place. Utah’s strong effort and fight make them a team to watch in the playoffs.
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