The Asian pickleball landscape is set to ignite! Major League Pickleball Asia (MLP Asia 2026) has officially finalized its inaugural season rosters, marking a monumental step for professional pickleball in the region. The recent International Draft brought high-stakes bidding and strategic picks, setting the stage for an explosive debut season.
Key Points:
- MLP Asia 2026 launches its first-ever team-based professional pickleball season.
- Six franchises have completed their rosters through a thrilling International Draft, featuring a US$250,000 team cap.
- Top talent like Chao Yi Wang and Kaitlyn Christian were among the crucial international selections.
- The season kicks off November 13 in Japan, culminating in the Super Saturday finals on December 12.
Asia's Pickleball Revolution Has Arrived
The expansion of the U.S. Major League Pickleball (MLP) format into Asia signals a new era for the sport. Six powerhouse franchises, representing diverse Asian markets, are now fully loaded. This groundbreaking league promises to elevate pickleball to unprecedented levels of competition and fandom across the continent.
Draft Day Drama: How the Stars Were Secured
The International Draft was a masterclass in strategy and finance. Each franchise entered with a US$250,000 cap, covering both player salaries and the crucial bidding for draft position. This innovative system ensured a level playing field while rewarding strategic foresight.
Salaries were tiered: US$25,000 for top-20 players, US$10,000 for ranks 21-50, and US$5,000 for others. The live auction for draft order added an electrifying layer of suspense. Teams willing to spend secured top picks, while others strategically held back.
The Roster Reveal: Who's Playing Where?
With the draft complete, the full rosters are now locked in. Each team now boasts three domestic picks, three international talents, and a designated captain, creating a blend of local heroes and global stars. The international draft picks saw some incredible talent find new homes:
- Chao Yi Wang (No. 7 pick) joins the Hong Kong Cannons.
- Kaitlyn Christian (No. 8 pick) heads to the Viet Panthers.
- Xiao Yi Wang-Beckvall (No. 9 pick) is a new force for the Malayan Stripes.
- Jamie Wei (No. 10 pick) steps up for the Dragon Warriors.
- Mihae Kwon (No. 11 pick) makes her mark with Team Tokyo.
- Muhammad Aiman (No. 12 pick) signs with the Manila Helios.
- Daniel Moore (No. 13 pick) adds depth to Team Tokyo.
- Luc Pham (No. 14 pick) bolsters the Dragon Warriors.
- Mayu Ito (No. 15 pick) reinforces the Manila Helios.
- Ho Tam (No. 16 pick) strengthens the Viet Panthers.
- Kei Sawaki (No. 17 pick) joins the Hong Kong Cannons.
- Lacy Schneeman (No. 18 pick) rounds out the Malayan Stripes.
These selections highlight the league's commitment to bringing top-tier international pickleball talent to Asia.
Mark Your Calendars: The Road to the Championship
The wait for elite pickleball action is almost over! The MLP Asia 2026 season officially ignites on November 13 in Japan. Each week promises high-octane clashes, with every team hosting a home fixture against two opponents in a single thrilling evening.
After three intense weeks of group play, only the top four sides will advance to the coveted playoffs. The semifinals are scheduled for December 11, setting up an epic Super Saturday finals on December 12. This is where the first-ever MLP Asia champions will be crowned, solidifying their place in history.
The stage is brilliantly set. Six dynamic teams, led by six exceptional captains, and eighteen international stars are ready to showcase pickleball at its absolute finest. Get ready for an unforgettable debut season!
