California Black Bears Mid-Season Review: The Black Bears, currently 10th in Major League Pickleball, face a challenging season with frequent roster changes and a tough path ahead.
The Black Bears Season Overview
The Black Bears have faced significant challenges this season, particularly with DJ Young’s injury. The team has struggled to find its footing, with their sole notable performance coming in the Mid-Season Tournament, which does not affect regular season standings. Trades and substitutions have been frequent, with recent changes including the addition of Chris Haworth and the acquisition of Genie Erokhina. Despite efforts to rebuild, the team has had a tough year and appears to be focusing on prospects.
Original Roster
- Rafa Hewett (10)
- DJ Young (11)
- Amanda Hendry (30)
- Emily Ackerman (31)
Recent Transactions
- Substitution: MLP Washington D.C. – Spencer Smith replaces DJ Young (Injury)
- Waiver Period #1: Added Susannah Barr; waived Emily Cederquist
- Waiver Period #1: Added Brandon French; waived DJ Young
- Trade Ahead of Waiver Period #2: Traded Susannah Barr to the Atlanta Bouncers for Genie Erokhina
- Trade Ahead of Waiver Period #2: Traded Rafa Hewett to the Las Vegas Night Owls for Mo Alhouni
- Waiver Period #2: Added Chris Haworth; waived Mo Alhouni
- Current Team: Chris Haworth, Amanda Hendry, Genie Erokhina, Brandon French
The Black Bears Match Performance
- W (3-1) vs. Bay Area
- W (3-2) vs. TX
- W (3-2) vs. ATL
- L (1-3) vs. CHI
- L (2-3) vs. SoCal
Playoff Chances
With 0 percent playoff chances, The Black Bears have shifted to a rebuilding phase, with a focus on long-term development rather than playoff contention.
| Metric | Stats |
| Matches Played/Remaining | 14/9 |
| Overall Match Win % | 28.57% |
| Points | 12 |
| Points Per Match | 0.86 |
| Women’s Doubles Win % | 36% (9th) |
| Men’s Doubles Win % | 36% (8th) |
| Mixed Doubles Win % | 46% (6th) |
| Dreambreaker Win % | 50% 2-2 (T-5th) |
| Max Points Possible | 39 (10th) |
| Current Position | 10th |
News in Brief: California Black Bears Mid-Season Review
The California Black Bears, currently in 10th place in Major League Pickleball, are enduring a challenging season marked by frequent roster changes and an uphill battle ahead. DJ Young’s injury has been a significant setback, impacting the team’s performance. Despite a strong showing in the Mid-Season Tournament, the results do not contribute to their regular season standings.
Recent transactions include adding Chris Haworth and Genie Erokhina while trading away key players. With a 0 percent chance of making the playoffs, the team is focused on rebuilding and future development.
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