-Priya Atlee and Filmmaker Atlee, celebrated for their creative brilliance and ability to captivate audiences, have announced their acquisition of the Bengaluru franchise in the World Pickleball League (WPBL). The team will be called Bengaluru Jawans. The acquisition marks the couple’s foray into the world of sports, aligning with their love for pickleball and their vision to contribute to the growth of the World Pickleball League.
Co-founded by former Indian Tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the World Pickleball League kicks off on the January 24th and will feature 48 players from India and across the world playing for six franchises.
The Bengaluru Jawans team consists of a formidable line up of players in a roster that includes Indian pickleball sensation Vrushali Thakare who is better known as Hammer Thakare for her dashing style of play. She will be joined by Jack Foster, Katerina Stewart, Trang Hyunh McClain, Marcelo Jardim, Alejandra Bobaria, Felix Grunert, Mauro Garcia who complete an enviable line-up.
Atlee & Priya who are excited to witness the World Pickleball League action unfold from 24th January shared their excitement for the acquisition of the Bengaluru franchise, “Entertainment has always been our passion, and we been fortunate to tell stories that connect with people on a deeper level. Sports, like cinema, has the power to evoke emotions, build communities, and inspire change. The World Pickleball League stood out to us as the perfect blend of both worlds—a delectable mix of high-energy sport and vibrant entertainment. This league is redefining how we experience sports in India, and we are thrilled to be a part of its journey to create a unique platform that celebrates athleticism, culture, and community. We share a deep spiritual connection with Bengaluru, a city where we have been warmly embraced by the affection and support of countless fans and friends. The city’s unique charm and growing significance in our lives continue to leave a lasting impression.”
Welcoming Priya and Atlee to the WPBL family, Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder and CEO of the World Pickleball League, Said, “The World Pickleball League is a celebration of everything that makes sports and entertainment so compelling—passion, energy, and community building. Priya and Atlee’s entry into the league with Bengaluru Jawans adds incredible momentum to our vision of creating a platform that transcends traditional sport and offers fans a one-of-a-kind experience. Their expertise in storytelling and entertainment perfectly complements WPBL’s goal of redefining how sports is consumed in India, and we’re excited about the journey together.”
With Priya and Atlee’s passion for sports and entertainment, and the WPBL’s commitment to fostering a vibrant pickleball ecosystem, this partnership promises to bring a new era of excitement and growth to the sport in India. Get ready to witness the thrilling fusion of sports, entertainment, and community as the WPBL takes center stage starting from January 24, 2025.
About the World Pickleball League (WPBL)
The World Pickleball League (WPBL), promoted by Natekar Sports and Gaming, founded by former India Number 1 Tennis players, Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, is at the forefront of revolutionizing pickleball in India. WPBL is dedicated to transforming pickleball through exceptional events, engaging fan experiences, and fostering a vibrant pickleball community while setting new standards for the sport. Set to debut in January 2025 with six teams, WPBL will also sponsor grassroots tournaments in each franchise city to develop local talent. With Sony Corporation as an investor and partner, WPBL works closely with the All-India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which is affiliated with the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) in the USA.
