Chicago Slice

Chicago Slice is a professional pickleball team competing in Major League Pickleball (MLP), the premier professional league that showcases top talent and the fastest-growing sport in the United States. Representing Chicago’s vibrant sports market, the Slice has quickly established itself as a competitive and strategic team with a strong roster and a deep connection to the community. Known for aggressive baseline play and tactical doubles strategies, Chicago Slice is a respected contender within the league.

History

Founded in 2022 as part of Major League Pickleball’s expansion, Chicago Slice was created to embody the dynamic spirit of Chicago’s athletic culture. The team quickly gained attention for its commitment to teamwork, strategic depth, and investment in rising pickleball stars. While not yet capturing a league championship, the Slice has consistently been a challenging opponent capable of pushing top-tier teams in close matches, frequently competing in high-stakes events and DreamBreaker tiebreakers that underline MLP’s excitement.

Chicago Slice’s growth parallels the rapid rise of professional pickleball nationally. Their participation in tournaments across the country, combined with strong marketing and fan engagement efforts, has contributed to expanding the sport’s popularity in the Midwest. The team has played home matches at events hosted in or near Chicago, helping build a loyal local fanbase supportive of their ongoing journey toward a championship title.

Throughout their tenure, Chicago Slice has built a reputation for resilience and adaptability. Players emphasize aggressive yet consistent shot making and the ability to perform under pressure in MLP’s unique scoring and match formats, including women’s doubles, men’s doubles, mixed doubles, and the decisive DreamBreaker tiebreaker.

Current Players (2025)

The 2025 roster of Chicago Slice features a mix of experienced pros and promising talents, reflecting the team’s goal of balanced and versatile competition across all match forms:

• Jessica Schultz – A dynamic female player skilled in quick reflexes and tactical doubles play.

• Luke Bendiksen – Known for his aggressive baseline game and strong net play, Bendiksen is an anchor in men’s doubles.

• Anna Graham – A rising star with a reputation for sharp shot placement and consistency under pressure.

• Mark Johnson – A reliable doubles strategist with notable serve-and-volley skills.

• Laura Mitchell – Skilled in mixed doubles, Mitchell brings sharp instincts and solid court positioning.

• Michael Brenner – A strategic and technically sound player contributing depth to the team lineup.

This roster combination allows Chicago Slice to adjust and compete effectively in the various doubles formats characteristic of Major League Pickleball.