Ownership trades in professional sports are a fascinating rarity, unlike player trades. Recently, two Major League Pickleball franchises—the D.C. Pickleball Team and the Brooklyn Aces—swapped ownership rights in a groundbreaking deal. The ownership of the Aces, previously held by Rich Kleiman and NBA star Kevin Durant, transferred to the D.C. team’s investors, including real estate mogul Al Tylis and NFL star Odell Beckham Jr., while the D.C. team moved under the Aces’ original ownership.

This deal is reminiscent of the last franchise ownership swap in the NBA, back in 1978. Kleiman expressed excitement about entering an emerging league, underlining how their presence in each city would enhance local engagement. The unique trade was a strategic move to capitalize on market potential, especially given Kevin Durant's strong Washington D.C. ties. Tylis emphasized the benefits of being physically present in the D.C. market, where they could engage the community more effectively. The deal marks a significant step in shaping the future of Major League Pickleball, enhancing local fan engagement, and potentially leading to future home courts for the teams involved.