The Texas Ranchers Major League Pickleball (MLP) team has made significant strides in 2025, achieving multiple milestones that highlight its innovative approach to professional sports. Founded by Evan Floersch, a 26-year-old entrepreneur, the team is redefining traditional ownership models in sports, focusing on community engagement rather than singular private ownership. This year, the Texas Ranchers have launched a new minor league program, a junior pickleball initiative, and a fan-gear collection designed by hip-hop icon Lil Wayne, further solidifying their presence in the rapidly growing pickleball market.
Floersch’s vision for the Texas Ranchers, based in Austin, has attracted global investors, including Lil Wayne, who became a co-owner in October 2023. The investment from the Grammy Award-winning artist has not only brought financial support but also a fresh wave of popularity to the sport. With pickleball now recognized as a $2 billion market, the Ranchers are positioned at the forefront of this burgeoning industry.
In a notable development, Lil Wayne released his first official pickleball fan-gear collection, with prices ranging from $14 to $85. The collection aims to appeal to both seasoned players and newcomers, showcasing a bold style that reflects the spirit of the game. “I’ve always believed creativity doesn’t belong to one lane,” said Lil Wayne. “I hope everyone sees the Wayne in this collection. Together, we’re evolving the game and working to bring new audiences into it.”
Live Streaming Events and Competitive Success
The Texas Ranchers recently completed the 2025 season as the 6th seed out of 22 teams in the MLP, marking their second consecutive year in the top ten. This achievement underscores the team’s competitive edge and the growing interest in pickleball, particularly in Austin, which has earned the title of the “Pickleball City of the USA.”
On October 11, 2025, the Ranchers hosted a groundbreaking live streaming event in collaboration with the One True King (OTK) Network. The “OTK Creator Smash Pickleball Invitational Austin” allowed audiences to watch various content creators engage in pickleball matches, further promoting the sport. The event featured notable personalities, including popular streamers like Asmongold and Sodapoppin, showcasing the intersection of sports and digital entertainment.
The Texas Ranchers have also introduced a new event format called “RumbleBall,” which offers a fast-paced, high-energy version of traditional pickleball. This initiative aims to attract a younger audience and make the sport more accessible and engaging.
Building the Future of Pickleball
In addition to its professional team, the Texas Ranchers have launched a minor league program aimed at fostering local talent in Austin. This initiative allows young players to compete and develop their skills with the potential of advancing to a professional level in the future. The Ranchers also introduced a junior program for elementary, middle, and high school students, marking a significant step in creating a structured pathway for youth in pickleball.
These programs reflect the Texas Ranchers’ commitment to community engagement and the promotion of pickleball as a sport for all ages. The team’s approach is designed to cultivate the next generation of players, ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of the sport.
As the Texas Ranchers continue to innovate within the realm of Major League Pickleball, their unique blend of celebrity involvement, community focus, and competitive spirit positions them as leaders in the evolving landscape of professional sports. With a strong foundation laid in 2025, the future looks promising for both the team and the sport itself.
