On April 22nd, 2023, the inaugural Pickleball Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place in Seattle, Washington, the birthplace of pickleball. The event celebrated the rich history and growth of the sport by honoring five influential individuals who made significant contributions to the development and popularity of pickleball.

The inductees included Joel Pritchard, one of the three founders of pickleball, who, along with Bill Bell and Barney McCallum, invented the game in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Pritchard's family was present to accept the honor on his behalf, as he had passed away in 1997.

Other inductees were Jennifer Lucore and Alex Hamner, the pioneering women's doubles team who dominated the sport in the early 2000s and helped to inspire a new generation of female players. They were also recognized for their efforts in promoting pickleball and advocating for greater inclusivity within the sport.

Sid Williams, known as the "Ambassador of Pickleball," was posthumously inducted for his tireless work in spreading the love of the game across the United States. Williams traveled the country teaching pickleball clinics and helping to establish countless local clubs and leagues.

Lastly, the ceremony honored David Jordan, the inventor of the first commercially produced pickleball paddle. His innovative design, which featured a lightweight aluminum honeycomb core and a graphite face, revolutionized the sport and paved the way for the development of modern, high-performance paddles.

The Pickleball Hall of Fame induction ceremony was attended by hundreds of pickleball enthusiasts, including many of the sport's top players and coaches. The event also featured exhibitions and clinics, allowing attendees to learn from and interact with some of the game's greatest talents. This memorable day celebrated the rich history of pickleball and set the stage for its continued growth and success in the years to come.