Done Deal: In an unexpected yet exciting move, Jackson Senior, a standout multi-sport athlete from Mississippi, has signed with a Minor League Pickleball team, adding a new chapter to his…

Jackson Senior Signs with Minor League Pickleball Team, Marking a New Chapter in Athletic Career

In an unexpected yet exciting move, Jackson Senior, a standout multi-sport athlete from Mississippi, has signed with a Minor League Pickleball team, adding a new chapter to his growing list of athletic achievements.

The 22-year-old Jackson native, known for his high school basketball dominance and brief stint in semi-pro baseball, has taken his talents to the rapidly growing world of professional pickleball. He inked a deal this week with the Gulf Coast Gators, a competitive Minor League Pickleball team based in Biloxi, Mississippi.

A New Beginning

While pickleball has long been considered a sport for all ages, its recent surge in popularity — especially among younger, high-performance athletes — has given rise to more structured professional circuits. Minor League Pickleball, an affiliate of Major League Pickleball (MLP), serves as a developmental ground for rising stars and seasoned players transitioning from other sports.

For Jackson Senior, the transition felt natural. “I’ve always been quick on my feet, loved the one-on-one aspect of sports like tennis and basketball,” he said in an introductory press conference. “Pickleball felt like the perfect blend. Once I picked up a paddle, I knew this could be something special.”

An Athlete to Watch

Standing at 6’4” with a wingspan that gives him a clear advantage at the net, Jackson’s athleticism, court awareness, and fast hands have already drawn attention during early scrimmages. The Gators’ head coach, Marcus Velez, called the signing a “no-brainer.”

“Jackson has that explosive first step and a competitor’s mindset,” said Velez. “He’s raw but incredibly promising. With the right development, he could absolutely make waves at the Major League level.”

Growing the Game

Jackson’s signing is another signal of pickleball’s rapid ascent into mainstream sports culture. As Minor League teams continue to scout fresh talent and cultivate grassroots fanbases, players like Jackson help bridge the gap between traditional sports and pickleball’s unique format.

“I want to be part of this sport’s future,” Jackson said. “Pickleball is growing fast, and I’m here to grow with it.”

The Gulf Coast Gators open their season next month, and all eyes will be on Jackson Senior as he makes his official debut. If his early performances are any indication, he could soon be on the fast track to Major League Pickleball glory.