Get ready for an exhilarating new event in the world of sports and entertainment: the Celebrity Pickleball Bash! This series of showcases will feature celebrities teaming up with professional players, blending the excitement of pickleball with a dose of star-studded entertainment.
New York Knicks All-Star guard Jalen Brunson, comedian Anthony Anderson, country pop singer Jessie James Decker, former NFL wide receiver Eric Decker, actor and on-air personality Mario Lopez, PIVOT Agency Founder, and former Golden State Warriors executive Ben Shapiro, and current Rhode Skin CEO Nick Vlahos are teaming up as equity partners for this exciting venture.
The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) will join as a strategic partner for the Celebrity Pickleball Bash, working together to promote and expand the sport.
The inaugural events will take place in San Francisco on February 15-16, 2025, at the iconic Warfield Theatre. Additional showcases are planned in major cities like San Antonio, Las Vegas, and New York after this launch, coinciding with significant sporting events. Each event will feature celebrities paired with professional pickleball players, along with a variety of entertainment performances throughout the day.
Pre-sale tickets for the Celebrity Pickleball Bash will be available starting October 21 at 12 p.m. PDT at www.celebritypickleballbash.com. Fans can gain access to the pre-sale by signing up for the Celebrity Pickleball Bash Insider newsletter on the site. Public ticket sales will begin on October 28 at 1 p.m. PDT.
Each event will support a local charity partner, with specific charities announced prior to each showcase.
Jalen Brunson, NBA All-Star Guard: “Pickleball is rapidly growing as a major sport, and I’m excited about the upcoming Celebrity Pickleball Bash. I’m proud to be part of the ownership team and look forward to what’s ahead.”
Anthony Anderson, Comedian: “Pickleball has been a big part of my life, and this series of events is going to be a blast for both fans and players. Ben Shapiro and his team have a fantastic vision for the Celebrity Pickleball Bash, and I think everyone involved is eager to get on the court and show what we’ve got.”
Mario Lopez, Actor, and Celebrity Pickleball Bash Emcee: “I’m thrilled to be part of the Celebrity Pickleball team. I can’t wait to emcee the launch event in San Francisco on February 15-16. Fitness is a top priority for me, and there are few better places to have fun than on the pickleball courts.”
Ben Shapiro, PIVOT Agency Founder and Former Warriors Executive: “We’re excited to launch this venture with Jalen, Anthony, Nick, Eric, Jessie, and our group of celebrity partners. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in North America, and this series of events represents a natural evolution of the game. We’re creating a lively, engaging platform for fans to connect with celebrities and professional athletes in a party-like atmosphere. This is going to be a must-see event in every market and a key driver for the growth of pickleball overall.”
Event Details:
Location: San Francisco
Dates: February 15-16, 2025
Venue: Warfield Theatre
Tickets and VIP Experiences:
- Pre-sale begins on October 21 at 12 p.m. PDT.
- Public on-sale starts on October 28 at 1 p.m. PDT.
- Tickets can be purchased at www.celebritypickleballbash.com.
Fans can register for pre-sale opportunities by signing up for the Celebrity Pickleball Bash Insider newsletter on the website.
Celebrity Biographies
Jalen Brunson (IG/X: @jalenbrunson1): An NBA All-Star currently with the New York Knicks, Jalen is celebrated for his exceptional skills on the court and his passion for connecting with fans off it. He’s quickly becoming one of the brightest stars in basketball.
Anthony Anderson (IG/X: @anthonyanderson): An acclaimed actor and comedian, Anthony is best known for his role in the hit sitcom Black-ish. A dedicated pickleball enthusiast, he brings his signature charisma and energy to the court.
Jessie James Decker (IG/TikTok: @jessiejamesdecker / X: @JessieJDecker): A talented country pop singer-songwriter recognized for her heartfelt lyrics, Jessie is also a two-time New York Times bestselling author. She owns a fashion brand called Kittenish and has a cookware line that complements her cookbooks, Just Feed Me and Just Eat.
Eric Decker (IG: @ericdecker / X: @ericdecker87): A former NFL wide receiver, Eric reached the Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos in 2013 and also played for the New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, and New England Patriots. Beyond football, he is a devoted family man, successful entrepreneur, and an avid pickleball player.
Mario Lopez (IG: @mariolopez / X: @mariolopezviva): A well-known television host and actor, Mario has captivated audiences for decades with his vibrant personality and dedication to various charitable causes.
