Professional pickleball reaches new heights as Hyperspace Ventures brings Palm Beach its first-ever major pro sports team with a star-studded investor roster and deep local commitments.
New Era for Palm Beach Sports and Pickleball
The Palm Beach Royals have made history as the city’s first major professional sports franchise, following their recent acquisition by Hyperspace Ventures for a record $16 million. This group, driven by UNC-Chapel Hill alumni and tech entrepreneurs Zach Hunter, Taylor Meyer, and Alex Rafiee, and joined by fellow alumnus Peter Fox—is setting out to shape professional pickleball’s future at the highest level.
Star Power and Ownership Diversity
Hyperspace Ventures has assembled an ownership group featuring big names across sports and business. Notable partners include Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, US Open champion Bianca Andreescu, former UNC basketball stars Tyler Hansbrough and Marvin Williams, Indianapolis Colts Pro Bowler Kenny Moore II, and respected founders like Mitch Heath (Teamworks), Jeff Keswin (Lyrical Partners), Lance Pillersdorf (Advertising Week), and Scott Scherr (Ultimate Software).
Building Royalty in Major League Pickleball
As the 23rd MLP team, the Royals join a league riding a wave of record attendance, broadcast reach, and sponsorships in 2025. Hyperspace Ventures brings industry-leading expertise in sports and technology, having previously invested more than $21 million in the sport—including $5.3 million in Pickleball Inc.
Zach Hunter, Hyperspace Ventures co-founder, said: “Palm Beach is ready for its first major pro team. We’re building the Royals to compete at the highest level and to become a team that defines the next era of Major League Pickleball. Just like Palm Beach itself, the Royals will embody prestige, energy, and a world-class brand that makes this community special.”
Community Impact and Local Roots
The Palm Beach Royals plan to host matches, youth clinics, and pickleball festivals across Palm Beach County, supported by local business partnerships to make the sport a permanent part of the region’s athletic and community landscape.
Taylor Meyer, Hyperspace Ventures co-founder, said: “We’re honored to bring a professional pickleball team to this storied community, and proud to help usher in a new era of championship sport in Palm Beach. We want every Palm Beach area resident to feel like they’re part of the Royals family, whether they’re cheering courtside or picking up a paddle for the first time.”
Why It Matters
Pickleball is surging in popularity, with Florida now boasting three MLP franchises. The Royals’ arrival affirms Palm Beach’s place on the world sports map and brings high-profile athlete-investors together for the sport’s next evolution. Fans, businesses, and youth athletes alike have much to anticipate as the team gears up for its inaugural 2026 season.
For more information and upcoming events, visit the Palm Beach Royals’ official site.
Author Profile
- Alyssa Jade is a international fashion stylist and trend reporter based in Vancouver, Canada. Renowned for her versatile and expansive portfolio, Alyssa has collaborated with a diverse array of professionals, including athletes, political figures, television hosts, and business leaders. Her styling expertise extends across commercial campaigns, fashion editorials, music videos, television productions, fashion shows, and bridal fashion.
Latest entries
BusinessFebruary 10, 2026Why Innovation Has Become Luxury’s New Authority in Footwear and Apparel
NewsFebruary 10, 2026ASRV Brings Back Japanese Engineered Deltapeak Hoodies and Joggers
FashionFebruary 10, 2026Li Ning FW26 Collection ‘The Athlete in All of Us’ Presents Winter Sport Storytelling in Milan
ShoesFebruary 9, 2026The 10 Footwear Brands Setting the Industry Standard For Sustainability
