The Pickleball Connection

Welcome to Episode 24 of the Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about new pickleball paddle regulations, including the formation of the UPA-A, new certification fees for paddle manufacturers, and the implications of spin limits and testing reliability. They discuss continued challenges of regulation paddle technology and if it will eliminate the fair playing field in professional pickleball, and how to keep smaller companies in the game (with a $20,000 fee!).

Welcome to Episode 23 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about some pickleball strategy that can disrupt your opponents' rhythm, including dinking in the middle, lobbing, and playing against their strengths. They also discuss why rec pickleball play should be just as competitive as tournaments.

Welcome to Episode 22 of The Pickleball Connection! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass share their top tips for players who are rated 4.0 and below. The most important things you can work on are drilling that focuses on: mastering the transition zone, working on your footwork, and simplifying your swing to reduce errors. Most importantly, you should be playing to your strengths during games and tournaments.

Welcome to Episode 21 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass are talking about the latest in pickleball news, including the controversies surrounding different serving rules in Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), the newly enforced 25 percent rule regarding line calls, and why there is so much confusion caused by different rules across leagues. As a rec player, should you be paying attention to pro pickleball rules and how do they apply to you? They also talk about pickleball strategy, including pre-game communication between partners and understanding your partner's strategy is crucial during matches.

Welcome to Episode 20 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett & Danea Bass talk about the potential adoption of the bounce serve in pro pickleball, rally scoring, and pickleball paddle speed. They also discuss the need for a unified governing body, and the relationship between organizations like the APP, PPA, and MLP.

Barrett and Danea also talk about the role of Major League Pickleball in pickleball's growth, strategies for dealing with hard hitters, and the effectiveness of the drop volley shot.

Welcome to Episode 19 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett Bass and Danea Zeigel talk pickleball controversy, including questionable and illegal serves in pro pickleball, where players like Dekel Bar have been called out for illegal pickleball serves multiple times without facing any penalties. But can serve rules be enforced, and what are potential solutions (like implementing a drop serve)? Plus, the exorbitant entry fees for pickleball tournaments, especially USA Pickleball Nationals. Will they be pricing out players? We want to know: How much are you willing to pay for a tournament?

Welcome to Episode 18 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass talk about ongoing pickleball paddle drama, including the inconsistency in paddle certifications, the potential dangers of using hot paddles, and the proposal to de-weaponize the serve in pickleball. The UPA feels like a big money grab, so should they be allowed to certify pickleball paddles before tournaments? Plus, what are the ethical implications (and your responsibilities) of playing in tournaments with partners of different skill levels?

Welcome to Episode 17 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Barrett and Danea Bass share a story about a player being a jerk to their partner during a recreational game and how important it is to treat your partner with respect. They also talk about the PPA Kansas City and Ben Johns & Collin Johns' performances in recent tournaments, and whether they should keep playing together in the future. Barrett and Danea reflect on their own tournament experience and how to adjust your strategies and play to your opponents' strengths.

Welcome to Episode 16 of The Pickleball Connection! In this episode, Danea and Barrett Bass talk about the controversy surrounding Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the alleged criticism of the league by Collin Johns. They also discuss if there any advantages to choosing a pickleball paddle that enhances your weaknesses instead of your strengths. Plus, does the name "pickleball" hold the sport back, how different sports can impact your pickleball skills, and how to take care of your pickleball paddle, including cleaning and using protective tape.

Welcome to Episode 15 of The Pickleball Connection podcast! In this episode, Danea and Barrett Bass talk about Major League Pickleball's (MLP) tournament and all the paddle drama (with players struggling to get their paddles approved for play). They also discuss whether pickleball paddle regulation should be a focus in pro pickleball, and the potential impacts of regulating pickleball balls. Plus, the many superstitions and rituals that pro pickleball players have and being humbled by a much older pickleball player on the court.