Top pickleball coaches Barrett and Danea talk about the crazy WINDS at the PPA Texas Open and how that affected gameplay, including what YOU could do about playing in the wind. They also reveal the evolution of pickleball from its classic roots to the MODERN game, highlighting changes in strategies, paddle technology, and gameplay dynamics. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the future of pickleball, how the game may continue to evolve, and how you should be changing YOUR game.

Welcome to Episode 33 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass welcome Mike and Rob Barnes, co-founders of Selkirk Sport. They talk about starting the pickleball company in their dad's basement, how they bootstrapped the business without any external investors, and building the company on controlled risk-taking. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 70% drop in pickleball sales overnight, but their business structure allowed them to survive and eventually pull ahead of competitors. The Barnes also discuss the evolution of pickleball demographics and Selkirk's goal of maintaining manufacturing capabilities in the USA, which helps Selkirk to maintain quality customer service, oversee quality control, and navigate regulatory challenges.

Welcome to Episode 32 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk all things recreational pickleball: including rec leagues and tournament dynamics. Learn about partner compatibility, deal breakers in pickleball tournaments, and the significance of maintaining a positive atmosphere on the pickleball court. Barrett and Danea also talk about pickleball etiquette in rec play, especially when it comes to line calls and how the right partner can make or break your pickleball game.

Welcome to The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass discuss pickleball in 2025, especially what they hope will change this year. Pickleball tournament costs have been rising and pickleball paddle regulations have become really confusing. Although there needs to be better standards and accessibility in the sport, the different regulating bodies are making it hard for players to keep up. Barrett and Danea also talk about Mark Renneson of Pickleball Coaching International (PCI) and how pickleball coaches are pivotal to growing the sport of pickleball.

Welcome to Episode 30 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about the latest changes in Major League Pickleball (MLP), including the removal of rally scoring, as well as new rules on roster requirements and pro pickleball player eligibility. How will these MLP changes affect the overall landscape of professional pickleball, and UPA specifically? MLP teams will have to do more to scout new talent than they are now, as well as find ways to increase engagement by viewers and pickleball fans.

Welcome to Episode 29 of The Pickleball Connection podcast. In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about the global growth of pickleball, specifically Club Med Cancun, where their dedicated courts have increased pickleball tournaments and games in the area. Barrett and Danea also discuss the upcoming Vintage Open tournament, which only allows players to use wooden paddles. They also talk about pickleball paddle technology, paddle bans, and if a "win" at a pro pickleball tournament where the player was using a banned paddle should come with an asterisk.

Welcome to Episode 28 of the Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about the pro pickleball scene, including new and changing streaming services, Gabe Tardio's new contract and partnership with Ben Johns, and if paid subscriptions will affect viewership of pro pickleball. They also discuss controversy around player rankings and qualifying rounds, and how to balance pickleball's growth and inclusivity.

Welcome to Episode 27 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about the latest news that Ben Johns and Collin Johns won't be playing together in 2025. What are the implications for their careers and who will they be playing with in 2025? Barrett and Danea also discuss pickleball etiquette for recreational play, pickleball partner communication and lingo, and why patience and strategy are so important on the pickleball court.

Welcome to Episode 26 of The Pickleball Connection Podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about the kicking incident that led to a video that has gone viral. What do you do if your opponent (or partner) is highly emotional, negative, or violent? Plus, why control and finesse is so much more important than power in pickleball and why players should focus on high percentage shots rather than risky plays. They also focus on other pickleball strategies to improve your game, including the split step, why letting out balls go can enhance overall performance, and player dynamics.

Welcome to Episode 25 of the Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about bangers vs. soft players in recreational pickleball play. So many rec pickleball players have preferences in their game style, so it's a good idea for all players to be open to all kinds of players, playing as a team, keeping a positive mindset, and why you need to focus on your own game rather than trying to change everyone else. They also talk about how to handle nights where you have no pickleball.