As Major League Pickleball (MLP) fans get excited for the first major event of the 2023 season next week, MLP has just announced the final two teams that will be entering the league this year. The Orlando Squeeze and St. Louis Shock are now officially MLP franchise teams, and they will be gearing up to play next week at MLP Mesa.
The St. Louis Shock is one of the 12 MLP Premier Level teams that will be competing this season. Richard Chaifetz is the new owner of the team, and will be joined by his son Ross Chaifetz in leading the team in a management position.
“St. Louis is a community that has always been passionate about its sports teams, and we are thrilled to bring a Major League Pickleball team to St. Louis.”
Richard Chaifetz, St. Louis Shock Owner
Making their entry into the MLP Challenger Level, the Orlando Squeeze are owned by Ryan DeVos, who is also currently the vice president of the Orlando Magic organization. Ryan recognizes the potential that Orlando has with pickleball, as Florida has been an epicenter for many of pickleball’s biggest tournaments in recent years.
“As our family has seen over its 30-plus years of stewardship with the Orlando Magic franchise, fans here love their teams and I’m excited to see the Squeeze added to that mix.”
Ryan Devos, Orlando Squeeze Owner
What’s better than Friday? How about the full Match Schedule for MLP Mesa kicking off next Thursday, January 26th – 29th? You’re Welcome.
— Major League Pickleball (@MajorLeaguePB) January 20, 2023
🔗: https://t.co/HAiy2LNiBz#MLPMesa pic.twitter.com/LOE9QUJz4U
Now that the Orlando Squeeze and the St. Louis Shock have officially joined Major League Pickleball, the league officially has its 24 team roster ready to go for 2023’s inaugural tournament: MLP Mesa. Both the Squeeze and the Shock will be participating in the big event next week which takes place from January 26th-29th.
MLP Mesa is going to be full of some exciting match ups featuring many of your favorite pro pickleball players, so be sure to check out the full match schedule so you don’t miss out on watching your favorite teams play! All of the matches will be broadcasted live through The Tennis Channel’s streaming services.
