Rick Barry, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, is now making waves in a different sport. The former NBA and ABA star has transitioned to pickleball, a fast-growing sport in the U.S., and he’s fully embraced it. This shift might surprise some, but Barry’s competitive spirit remains as strong as ever.
From the Court to the Pickleball Court
Rick Barry has always been competitive. Throughout his basketball career, he was known for his precision, especially his underhanded free throws. Now, at 80, he’s channeling that same energy into pickleball.
Two years ago, Barry met Anna Leigh Waters, a teenage pickleball prodigy. He was in awe of her talent. “You’ve done something that’s never going to happen again,” he told her, praising her achievement of becoming the best pickleball player in the world at just 15.
Embracing Pickleball’s Competitive Nature
At 80, Barry is still competitive and determined to win. “I’m out there to win,” he says, showing his seriousness about the game. Pickleball has become more than just a pastime for Barry; it’s his new athletic passion.
Despite his age, Barry’s hand-eye coordination and height (6-foot-7) have given him a significant advantage on the pickleball court. His drive to succeed, honed during his basketball career, is evident in his rapid improvement in the sport.
Pickleball Success and Recognition
Although younger players may not recognize him, older pickleball enthusiasts are familiar with the NBA legend. Barry’s skills have quickly advanced, and he has earned a Triple Crown at the U.S. Open in Naples, Florida, by winning in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles in the 80-plus age group.
This week, Barry is set to compete in the Huntsman Senior World Games in Utah, where he aims to add more medals to his collection.
The Physical Benefits of Pickleball
Pickleball offers Barry the physical activity he craves without the strain of other sports. Tennis, for example, is too hard on the body. Pickleball, with its smaller court, allows him to stay active without the wear and tear on his shoulders, elbows, and knees.
Barry’s success in pickleball isn’t just about physicality, though. His mental approach, particularly his focus on serving, has made him a formidable player. “A good serve can make all the difference,” Barry explains.
Competing Like a 30-Year-Old
Ted Meyer, who partnered with Barry in doubles last year, recalls a moment when Barry’s competitive instincts kicked in. During a close game, Barry made an off-balance shot that a much younger player would typically execute. “He just didn’t want to lose the point,” Meyer said, highlighting Barry’s never-give-up attitude.
From Basketball to Golf and Beyond
After Barry’s basketball career ended in 1980, he turned to golf. He even asked golf legend Jack Nicklaus for advice, realizing that golf might never be fully mastered. Later, Barry found success in Long Drive Golf, winning four world championships in different age groups.
However, it wasn’t until 2019, when his wife Lynn suggested pickleball, that Barry found his next passion. “What the hell is pickleball?” he asked initially. But after trying it, he was hooked.
Pickleball: A Fast-Growing Sport
Pickleball has seen a massive surge in popularity, with more than 13.6 million players in the U.S. in 2023. Rick Barry is one of its biggest advocates, encouraging others to take up the game. He even got fellow NBA Hall of Famer Chris Mullin to join the pickleball craze.
Barry’s passion for pickleball extends beyond just playing. He’s actively spreading the word, telling everyone he can about the sport’s rapid growth. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in America for three years straight.
Warriors great Rick Barry is now the kind of pickleball player you don’t want to mess with. pic.twitter.com/YXNigCJZF4
— Daniel Brown (@BrownieAthletic) October 16, 2024
Connecting with Tennis Legends
Barry’s connections with tennis greats like Andre Agassi, Steffi Graf, and John McEnroe have only strengthened his love for pickleball. Agassi, an early adopter of pickleball, shares Barry’s enthusiasm, while McEnroe remains skeptical.
Barry, however, is convinced that pickleball is here to stay, and he’s determined to keep improving and competing at a high level.
The Future of Pickleball and Rick Barry
Rick Barry’s journey from basketball superstar to pickleball champion is a testament to his competitive spirit and love for sports. Even at 80, he’s not slowing down. “This is not going away anytime soon,” Barry says about pickleball, confident that the sport will continue to grow.
For Rick Barry, pickleball isn’t just a hobby—it’s a passion that fuels his desire to keep winning, no matter what sport he’s playing.