The Celebrity Pickleball Showdown at PPA Worlds once again delivered a crowd-pleasing mix of competition, camaraderie, and entertainment — giving fans the rare chance to see sports legends and pickleball pros share the same court.
Headlining this year’s star-studded lineup was NBA Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki, joined by NFL great Terrell Owens, World Series champion J.D. Martinez, and social media sensation Tfue. On the pro side, pickleball elites Ben Johns, Anna Leigh Waters, Anna Bright, Tyson McGuffin, and Jack Sock were joined by several talented up-and-comers ready to make their mark.
The action kicked off with Waters and Nowitzki taking on Bright and Owens. Bright’s playful banter set the tone, while Owens impressed the crowd with his flashy, spin-filled shots that kept the game tight. Despite Nowitzki’s improved slice game, Bright and Owens edged out a 5–2 victory.
Next, Waters faced off against Martinez in singles. With 55 career singles titles to her name, Waters proved dominant — but when Martinez was on the verge of being “pickled,” Jack Sock jumped in for a surprise 2-on-1 challenge. Martinez managed to snag a point before Waters sealed a 7–1 win.
“It was a nightmare,” Martinez joked afterward.
Then it was Johns and Tfue versus Sock and Martinez in one of the night’s most exciting matchups. Tfue showed his pickleball passion and skill, blasting a winning drive down the line to claim an 8–7 victory alongside the GOAT.
The young stars also had their moment under the lights, as Elsie Hendershot (12), Camden Chaffin (14), Tama Shimabukuro (14), and Dallas native Ella Yeh (15) showcased the next generation of talent. Broadcaster Dave Fleming even joined in, teaming up with Owens to challenge Bright and Tfue. Despite a fierce rally that tied things up, Bright and Tfue clinched a tight 9–8 win.
The evening wrapped up with Bright and Martinez facing McGuffin and Nowitzki in a thrilling finale. Chemistry and laughter filled the court — especially when Nowitzki accidentally “body-bagged” Martinez mid-match. Ultimately, Bright and Martinez pulled out an 8–7 victory, closing another unforgettable edition of the Celebrity Showdown.
For Nowitzki, a three-time participant in the event, the night meant more than just fun on the court — proceeds from the event benefit The Dirk Nowitzki Foundation.
“It’s been wonderful being out here again,” said Nowitzki. “Pickleball has grown so much, and it’s great to see people of all ages getting involved. It’s a sport everyone can enjoy — young and old alike — and it’s been amazing to watch that growth.”
