The Indian filmmaker Atlee and Priya Atlee have unveiled their acquisition of the World Pickleball League‘s (WPBL) Bengaluru franchise.
Following the development, the team will be called Bengaluru Jawans and this venture has marked the couple’s maiden stint in sports.
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.”
Atlee’s team will consist of players like Vrushali Thakare, Katerina Stewart, Jack Foster, Marcelo Jardim, Alejandra Bobaria, Felix Grunert, and Mauro Garcia.
WPBL was co-founded by the former Indian tennis players, Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar. The inaugural season of the competition will commence on January 24, 2025 and will consist of 48 players from India and across the globe.