Rip Hamilton Joins DC Pickleball Team: The DC Pickleball Team lit up the courts at Major League Pickleball’s New York City event this week, with team owner and former NBA champion Rip Hamilton cheering from the sidelines. The presence of Hamilton—who earned his place in basketball history alongside the Detroit Pistons—seemed to bring an extra spark to his squad, who rebounded from an early loss in men’s doubles to win their next three matches.
Hamilton, never one to shy away from the spotlight, was quick to draw comparisons between his role with the team and basketball royalty. “You’re pretty much the Michael Jordan of the squad,” one player quipped to Hamilton, setting the tone for the evening. Hamilton, known for his competitive edge, nodded in agreement, clearly relishing the comparison to the six-time NBA champion.
In the pickleball action, it was pro Rachel Rohrabacher who stole the show. Rohrabacher dominated on the court, with teammate James Ignatowich humbly admitting, “I just kinda had to take a step back and let her take over.” Rohrabacher’s strong play helped lift the team to victory, and her presence was a reminder of how far pickleball’s top-tier athletes have come.
As the matches continued, so did the ever-present debate: Michael Jordan or LeBron James? Hamilton, a devoted Jordan disciple, didn’t hesitate. “Honestly, Michael Jordan had a better career,” he said, a stance that felt fitting given his own success in the NBA. The conversation took on an added twist, as the DC Pickleball Team faces off against a team with ties to LeBron James tomorrow. Hamilton, ever the competitor, ensured his allegiance was clear: “Michael Jordan, it’s a wrap.”
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The MLP NYC event, held in the heart of the city, drew an enthusiastic crowd, even on a Thursday. For Ignatowich, the atmosphere only added to the experience. “The crowd’s been amazing,” he said, expressing his love for the Northeast and his hope for more tournaments in the region.
With Rip Hamilton in their corner and Rohrabacher leading on the court, the DC Pickleball Team is looking to ride their momentum through the rest of the tournament. Tomorrow’s showdown, against a LeBron-affiliated squad, will not only test their skills but add yet another chapter to the never-ending Jordan vs. LeBron debate—this time, played out in the fastest-growing sport in America.
News in Brief: Rip Hamilton Joins DC Pickleball Team
The DC Pickleball Team shone at Major League Pickleball’s New York City event, boosted by team owner and former NBA champion Rip Hamilton. After an early loss in men’s doubles, the team rallied to win three matches, with pro Rachel Rohrabacher leading the charge. Hamilton drew comparisons to basketball royalty, asserting his allegiance to Michael Jordan amidst ongoing debates about Jordan vs. LeBron James. The event attracted an enthusiastic crowd, with players expressing hope for more tournaments in the Northeast. As they prepare for a showdown against a LeBron-affiliated team, the DC team aims to capitalize on their momentum.
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