Edward Jones MLP Phoenix: Biggest Questions, Rising Tensions, And Storylines To Watch

May 28

The action continues in the 2024 MLP season as the Edward Jones MLP Phoenix event kicks off this week at Arizona Athletic Grounds. With scorching temperatures, late-night matches, and high-stakes playoff implications, the stage is set for one of the most unpredictable weekends of the year.

From the reigning champs navigating a tight turnaround to hometown hopes riding on a star-studded roster, here’s a look at the major storylines and matchups to follow in Mesa.

Three Burning Questions Heading Into Phoenix

1. Can the Dallas Flash Stay Perfect in the Desert?

The Dallas Flash (8-0, 22 points) are the team to beat—and they’re feeling the pressure. Coming off a flawless showing at MLP Austin, they now head to Phoenix with minimal recovery time. The question is: can they maintain their intensity, especially with six more matches on deck?

All eyes will be on Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black, who are a combined 29-3 so far this season. If they stay hot, the Flash might just ride this streak deep into summer.

2. Will Phoenix Flames Catch Fire at Home?

Nicknamed “Team Showtime,” the Phoenix Flames (2-6, 7 points) have the flash—but can they deliver substance? Playing on home soil should give them an emotional lift, but much depends on Jack Sock’s condition following his recent injury withdrawal from the PPA Atlanta event.

The Flames face stiff competition, but with a loud local crowd behind them, they’ll be out to prove they’re more than just entertainment.

3. Will Heat and Late Starts Shake Up the Field?

Triple-digit temperatures and matches beginning as late as 8:30pm local time could throw rhythm and stamina into chaos. It’s a variable no team can ignore. Depth, conditioning, and mental toughness will matter more than ever—especially under the lights.

Premier Level Storylines By Team

Atlanta Bouncers (3-6, 8 points)

Atlanta is lingering near the playoff cut line and desperately needs wins. Victoria DiMuzio’s 3-15 record is a concern, but if she can find her form in Phoenix, the Bouncers may punch their way back into the postseason picture.

Brooklyn Pickleball Team (2-3, 8 points)

Their record may not reflect their potential—Brooklyn’s three losses came against elite squads. Phoenix will be their proving ground, especially with key matchups against the Mad Drops and Flash. A strong showing here could completely shift their trajectory.

Dallas Flash (8-0, 22 points)

The biggest challenge now? Sustaining excellence. With the weight of perfection on their shoulders and little rest from Austin, how long can they keep this streak going?

LA Mad Drops (1-2, 4 points)

This team’s ceiling depends on health. With Hunter Johnson back from injury, they could finally start firing on all cylinders. Their opening match against Brooklyn may be a sneak peek at a future playoff clash.

Phoenix Flames (2-6, 7 points)

It’s now or never for the hometown heroes. Between Jack Sock’s return and the advantage of familiar surroundings, the Flames could use this weekend to spark a midseason turnaround.

SoCal Hard 8s (0-2, 1 point) & Utah Black Diamonds (0-3, 1 point)

Both are still searching for their first win of the campaign. One will finally break the drought when they face off Sunday, June 1st at 11:00am ET—a critical moment for two teams on the ropes.

Teams Sitting Out In Phoenix

Several Premier Level teams will not appear in Phoenix, including heavyweights like the New Jersey 5s, St. Louis Shock, and Texas Ranchers. Challenger Level teams will also be absent from this stop, sharpening the spotlight on the select squads in attendance.

Key Matchups To Watch

Thursday, May 29 | 6:00pm ET: LA Mad Drops vs. Brooklyn Pickleball Team
A pivotal game for playoff positioning, this early matchup could have big implications down the line.
Friday, May 30 | 8:00pm ET: Dallas Flash vs. Brooklyn Pickleball Team
A real test for Brooklyn. Can they hang with the unbeaten champs?
Saturday, May 31 | 11:30pm ET: Dallas Flash vs. Phoenix Flames
Late-night drama guaranteed. Will the Flames shine brightest under the desert lights?

Special Event: Celebrity Pro-Am (Saturday, May 31)

Phoenix will also host a unique one-hour Celebrity Pro-Am event featuring big names from the worlds of sports and music. Slated to appear:

Jake Plummer (Former NFL QB and Arizona State standout)
James Valentine (Guitarist, Maroon 5)
Eric Byrnes (Former MLB star)

It’s a fun twist on an otherwise ultra-competitive weekend, blending star power with pro-level talent.

Event Info & Broadcast Details

The Edward Jones MLP Phoenix event takes place at Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa, AZ. Match times are:

Thursday & Friday: 6:00pm ET
Saturday: 6:30pm ET
Sunday: 11:00am ET

All matches will be streamed live on Pickleballtv.

Final Thoughts

With so much at stake, MLP Phoenix promises intensity, emotion, and perhaps a few upsets. From the streaking Flash to the resilient Flames, from celebrity appearances to playoff aspirations—there’s no shortage of storylines to follow.

As the heat rises, so does the pressure. Welcome to Phoenix. Let the drama unfold.

Rahul Khadke