Paddletek has made its intentions clear. The Chicago-based brand, already the most decorated name in pickleball paddles, has doubled down on its “Bigger, Bolder, Better” mantra by acquiring PIKKL and welcoming JW Johnson, Jorja Johnson, Julie Johnson, and Hurricane Tyra Black into Team Paddletek. It is a move that signals ambition, conviction, and a desire to shape the sport’s future.
The story behind this landmark deal is as much about timing as it is about vision. Paddletek had been studying PIKKL’s innovative approach to paddle technology, weighing how it could expand a portfolio that already includes Paddletek, ProXR, and Yobow. At the same time, JW and Jorja Johnson were searching for equipment that matched their style and maximised their potential. What began as separate journeys converged into one conclusion—partnership was inevitable.
Ron Saslow, Founder and Managing Partner of Thirty-5 Capital, which manages the Paddletek Group, summed it up neatly: the Johnsons were looking for the right paddle, Paddletek was looking for the right people, and the paths aligned. The result is one of the most talented groups ever assembled under a single banner.
PIKKL’s Place in the Story
PIKKL, founded by Mike Strommen and Dan Martinson, built its reputation on professional-quality equipment and a commitment to performance, technology, and community. The company quickly earned respect as an innovator, and now its technology platform will sit alongside Paddletek’s established families—Bantam, Tempest, and the recently launched Honeyfoam™. Strommen and Martinson will continue to drive innovation within the new structure, ensuring PIKKL’s DNA remains intact.
Strommen himself acknowledged the significance of the moment, noting that what began as a small vision has grown far beyond expectations. Joining Paddletek, he said, provides the chance to push performance forward and support athletes on a larger stage.
For JW Johnson, the decision was never about contracts or logos. He emphasised that he had tested every paddle available, and this partnership offered both cutting-edge technology and a brand committed to winning. Jorja Johnson echoed that sentiment, highlighting the alignment of people, culture, and values. For the Johnson family, this is not just a signing—it is the right environment for the next chapter of their careers.
A Shared Vision for Growth
As pickleball continues its rapid global rise, the acquisition reflects a broader belief shared by Paddletek, PIKKL, and the Johnsons: success is earned, not given, and progress comes only through continuous improvement. By combining innovation, talent, and conviction, Paddletek has positioned itself not just as a paddle manufacturer but as a driving force in the sport’s evolution.
This is more than a business deal. It is a statement of intent—one that could shape pickleball’s competitive landscape for years to come.
