Proton buys controlling stake in AZ Drive
Last Edited
Jan 24 2025
Category
News
The AZ Drive, one of Major League Pickleball’s (MLP) franchises, has just sold a controlling stake at a valuation north of $10 million. The new ownership group includes Proton Sports—an Arizona-based paddle brand—alongside former NFL quarterback Jake Plummer and financial pro Jeff Tsao.
They’ll join an already star-studded group that includes NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald, mentalist Oz Pearlman, chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and GoodRx co-founder Doug Hirsch.
From paddle maker to power player
Proton joins Anheuser-Busch (Atlanta Bouncers) and Lotto (Brooklyn Aces) as the latest company to take equity in an MLP franchise.
For Proton, the move makes perfect sense. The startup has been aggressively expanding since its 2024 launch, locking down top pro sponsorships and investing in everything from the Junior PPA Tour to major pro tournaments like the Australia Pickleball Open and PPA Tour Carvana Mesa Cup.
They’re also the exclusive paddle partner of AZ Drive, doubling down on their commitment to the sport at every level.
“This partnership is more than just business—it’s about Arizona,” said Charles Darling, President of Proton Sports. “We believe in the explosive growth of pickleball here, and we’re thrilled to be part of AZ Drive’s future.”
Jason Rowley, President of AZ Drive, echoed that sentiment. “This isn’t just a sponsorship deal—it’s a cultural alignment. We’re building something for Arizona pickleball fans that will last.”
This deal signals a theme for MLP this year
A $10M+ valuation for an MLP franchise is the kind of number that attracts serious investors, and it’s only the beginning as the league expands its 2025 season to 10 regular-season events and a playoff series.
But above all, MLP teams are increasingly focused on their home regions in 2025.
Read next: Major League Pickleball announces major rule changes, eliminates rally scoring for doubles
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