Aleksander Barkov Pickleball Ownership Team: Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov has become a co-owner of the Palm Beach Royals, a Major League Pickleball team set to debut in 2026. Joining him are Canadian tennis star Bianca Andreescu, Indianapolis Colts pro bowler Kenny Moore II, and former NBA player Tyler Hansbrough.
The team was announced last month with a record-high valuation of $16 million for an MLP expansion team. Zach Hunter and Taylor Meyer, former NCAA tennis teammates at the University of North Carolina lead the ownership group.
Record-Breaking Valuation
Taylor Meyer spoke with Sports Business Journal about the team’s fast success: “Go back to 2021, [MLP] teams were trading in the maybe low six-figures. As you go into 2024, you started to see that eight-figure [valuation] mark get eclipsed. Fifteen million dollars was actually the initial target we had in our term sheet, and we could raise up to $16M if it did go oversubscribed. It sold out far quicker than we thought.”
The valuation marks a milestone for Major League Pickleball, reflecting the growing popularity and commercial interest in the sport.
Barkov’s Sports Legacy
Aleksander Barkov is one of the NHL’s top players. He captained the Florida Panthers to back-to-back Stanley Cup victories, has won three Selke Trophies, and earned an estimated $74.18 million in his career, according to PuckPedia. His involvement brings star power and credibility to the Palm Beach Royals.
Impact on Major League Pickleball
The inclusion of high-profile athletes like Barkov, Andreescu, Moore II, and Hansbrough highlights the rising visibility of Major League Pickleball. With strong financial backing and star owners, the Palm Beach Royals are expected to make a big impact when they debut in 2026, attracting fans and investors alike.
News in Brief: Aleksander Barkov Pickleball Ownership Team
Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov joins Palm Beach Royals as co-owner. The 2026 Major League Pickleball team also includes Bianca Andreescu, Kenny Moore II, and Tyler Hansbrough. Announced at a $16 million valuation, the team sold out quickly. Zach Hunter and Taylor Meyer lead the ownership group.