If you paid attention to movies whatsoever in the early-aughts, you know Vince Vaughn, the comedic actor known for starring roles in Wedding Crashers, The Break-Up, Dodgeball, and more.
Like many other celebrities, particularly those in film, Vince is a fan of pickleball. Now, the 54-year-old has acquired a majority stake in the Coachella Valley Scorpions pickleball team.
They're part of the National Pickleball League (NPL), the first 50+ professional pickleball league founded in 2022.
He first encountered the sport through Co-Owner Kim Jagd, a player and coach who led the Indy Drivers to the league’s inaugural NPL title last season.
The two met on the pickleball courts near Manhattan Beach, sparking Vaughn's interest in the sport and the team.
“I have always enjoyed the game, and meeting Kim impressed me not only with her skills as a player but also her passion and style of coaching,” Vaughn says. “I’m excited to support her and the Scorpions on their journey.”
Jagd will retain a minority ownership stake in the team while continuing her role as a player and coach.
“When you’re on the court with Vince, you can feel his energy and excitement for pickleball,” Jagd says.
“His involvement is an exciting development for the team and will help the Scorpions continue to build their brand both in Coachella Valley and the broader Southern California area.”
The NPL has doubled its number of teams for the 2024 season.
This season includes stops in major cities such as Chicago, Cincinnati, Kansas City, and Houston, with the Championship Weekend set for October 17-20 at a location to be determined.
Learn more about NPL here.
