Are The Big D’s The Next Merch Phenomenon In Pickleball?

Pickleball fashion is having a moment. From quirky slogans to fan-favorite apparel, players are finding creative ways to connect with their audience beyond the court. And at the Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships, Dylan Frazier and Dekel Bar took that trend to another level, unveiling an updated line of their now-iconic “Big D’s” T-shirts.

The playful duo first grabbed attention at the Black Desert Resort Utah Open in March when they appeared wearing matching shirts emblazoned with the “Big D’s” slogan. The shirts became an instant hit, drawing laughs and nods from fans across the pickleball community.

It was a cheeky move that paid homage to Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher, whose “Girlies” brand had been a merch sensation. Before going their separate ways, Bright and Rohrabacher’s branded T-shirts sold out rapidly, sparking a trend that Frazier and Bar were quick to capitalize on.

Now, with the Girlies officially disbanded and their merch a thing of the past, Frazier and Bar are stepping up to fill the void—and having a lot of fun doing it.

Source: Pickleball.com

From Girlies To Big D’s: The Evolution Of Pickleball Merch

The Girlies were pioneers in turning on-court chemistry into a brand. Fans embraced their lighthearted vibe and relatable appeal, and the merch became a symbol of their partnership. But with Bright and Rohrabacher parting ways, the Girlies gear has become a nostalgic memory.

Enter Frazier and Bar. The two decided to lean into the playful nature of pickleball by debuting “Big D’s” shirts in Utah. Initially, it was a last-minute move, but the reception was overwhelmingly positive. Fans loved the humor, and the shirts quickly gained traction.

For their return to the court in Atlanta, Frazier and Bar decided to up their game. Not only did they unveil an updated logo and font, but they also added images of themselves to the shirts, making the connection to their “Big D’s” moniker unmistakable.

Pickleball Central even got in on the action, selling the new “Big D’s” T-shirts on-site at the Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships. Fans flocked to snag the gear, with Frazier and Bar signing shirts and posing for photos, cementing the brand’s playful identity.

“They’re $34.99, but the price is probably going to have to go up,” joked Frazier.
“Every win, the price goes up,” Bar quipped, leaning into the humorous tone that has defined their branding strategy.

The Appeal Of The Big D’s: Why It Works

So, what makes the “Big D’s” merch so appealing? It’s not just about the catchy name or the amusing design. It’s about the vibe that Frazier and Bar bring to the court.

Unlike the Girlies, whose merch was defined by its cute and casual aesthetic, the “Big D’s” brand embraces a more laid-back, humorous tone. It’s silly, slightly self-deprecating, and perfectly aligned with pickleball’s fun, approachable culture.

And while the Girlies merch was undeniably a hit, the “Big D’s” approach feels more like a tongue-in-cheek nod to the camaraderie that defines the sport. It’s not about being polished or pristine—it’s about having a laugh, connecting with fans, and keeping things light.

The Future Of Pickleball Merch: Where Do We Go From Here?

With the Girlies no longer active, the “Big D’s” duo has a clear path to dominate the merch scene. But they’re not the only ones getting creative.

Danny Jensen, Wes Burrows, Sam Querrey, and Rafa Hewett took a page from the Girlies playbook at the Carvana Mesa Cup, releasing their own “The Daddies” sweatshirts. It’s a trend that underscores just how much potential there is for playful, personality-driven branding in pickleball.

For Frazier and Bar, the next step could be expanding the “Big D’s” line. Will we see caps, sweatshirts, or even signature paddles bearing the logo? With their growing popularity and natural chemistry, the possibilities are endless.

As pickleball continues to rise in prominence, expect to see more players and teams turning their on-court personas into off-court brands. And if the success of the “Big D’s” shirts is any indication, fans are more than ready to embrace the fun, quirky side of the sport.

Frazier and Bar may not have set out to be the next big thing in pickleball merch, but their lighthearted approach and undeniable chemistry have made them fan favorites. And while the Girlies may be gone, the “Big D’s” are here to stay—one humorous T-shirt at a time.