New Jersey 5s Stun Texas Ranchers: The New Jersey 5s advanced in the Toray Major League Pickleball Playoffs on Saturday, August 16, with a 3-0 sweep over the Texas Ranchers at Barnes Tennis Center in San Diego, California. Despite the final score, both doubles matches tested New Jersey before they secured the win.
Women’s Doubles Battle
In the women’s doubles, Anna Leigh Waters and Meghan Dizon faced tough pressure against Tina Pisnik and Kaitlyn Christian. The Ranchers’ pair held a 10-6 lead and five game points. Still, Waters and Dizon fought back, rallying to win and giving New Jersey the early advantage.
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Men’s Doubles Comeback
Shortly after, Will Howells and Noe Khlif turned around a difficult start against Christian Alshon and Eric Oncins. Trailing 6-2, they used a nine-point run after the end switch to take control of the game. That victory gave New Jersey a 2-0 series lead heading into mixed doubles.
Will Howells explained how they made adjustments during the turnaround.
“The biggest thing was just trusting our shots and going for it. I think we started engaging our feet more and really going downhill with everything,”
Will Howells said.
“The wind is a bit of a factor, and the ball was dipping a little bit more, so we decided to drive some more on that side, and I think that helped a lot.”
Mixed Doubles Finish
With momentum on their side, New Jersey closed out the sweep in mixed doubles. Howells teamed up with Waters to win the opening mixed match, securing the 3-0 result and a trip to the next round of the playoffs.
What It Means
The victory highlights New Jersey’s ability to fight through close moments and adjust under pressure. Texas showed resilience but fell short in key points. New Jersey now looks ahead to the semifinals, carrying confidence from their sweep and the strong play of both their doubles and mixed teams.
News in Brief: New Jersey 5s Stun Texas Ranchers
The New Jersey 5s defeated the Texas Ranchers 3-0 in the Major League Pickleball Playoffs in San Diego. Anna Leigh Waters, Meghan Dizon, Will Howells, and Noe Khlif led the team with key comebacks. Howells and Waters sealed the sweep in mixed doubles, moving New Jersey into the next round.
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