Priya Atlee and renowned filmmaker Atlee have officially entered the sports arena by acquiring the Bengaluru franchise in the World Pickleball League (WPBL).
Their team, named the Bengaluru Jawans, signifies the couple’s passion for pickleball and their ambition to support the league’s development and popularity.
The World Pickleball League, co-founded by former Indian tennis professionals Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, will launch on January 24th. This league features six teams and brings together 48 talented players from India and around the world.
The Bengaluru Jawans’ roster includes several prominent players, such as Indian pickleball sensation Vrushali Thakare, also known as “Hammer Thakare” for her distinctive playing style.
Joining her are international players Jack Foster, Katerina Stewart, Trang Hyunh McClain, Marcelo Jardim, Alejandra Bobaria, Felix Grunert, and Mauro Garcia, forming a formidable team lineup.
In a statement, Atlee and Priya shared their excitement about this new venture :
“Storytelling has always been our passion, allowing us to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Similarly, sports have the power to inspire, bring communities together, and create lasting change.
The World Pickleball League perfectly merges high-energy sport with engaging entertainment, offering a dynamic platform that celebrates athleticism and culture.
“Bengaluru holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a city that has showered us with warmth and affection, and we’re thrilled to deepen our connection by contributing to its sports culture through the Bengaluru Jawans.”
“The World Pickleball League is about more than just competition—it’s about passion, energy, and building communities.
Priya and Atlee’s entry into the league with the Bengaluru Jawans brings immense value and aligns perfectly with our vision of revolutionizing sports entertainment in India.
Their storytelling expertise adds a unique dimension to this journey, and we’re excited to collaborate with them.”
With its fusion of sports and entertainment, the World Pickleball League is set to redefine how fans engage with athletic events, and the Bengaluru Jawans promise to be an exciting addition to the league’s inaugural season.
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