Welcome back to the Alpha Pickleball Podcast! In this episode, host Tats sits down with Jason Bock, a pro pickleball player balancing competition, career, and fatherhood. Jason shares his journey from tennis to pickleball, the evolution of his game, and key strategies for adapting to different opponents. Tune in for insights on fast hands, court positioning, paddle choices, and how to be a great doubles partner. Let’s dive in!

Host Tats welcomes pro pickleball player Jay Devilliers, who shares his journey from high-level tennis to discovering pickleball in 2019 while working at Chicken N Pickle. He initially learned through trial and error in tournaments, studying top players like Matt Wright, Ben Johns, and Simone Jardim to develop his game.

Jay discusses how paddle technology has changed playstyles, the rise of power and quick hands, and his shift from a patient, dink-heavy approach to a more aggressive, fast-paced game. He breaks down drive-and-crash tactics, evolving strategies, and the importance of adaptability and partner chemistry in doubles.

He also shares insights on training, injury prevention, and mindset, emphasizing staying positive, communication in partnerships, and continuously evolving to stay competitive. Jay expresses his love for team events like MLP, though he believes balancing individual and team formats will shape the sport’s future.

He wraps up with advice for recreational and competitive players—stay adaptable, focus on quick hands, and bring positive energy to every game.

Host Tats interviews pro pickleball player Max Manthou ("Purple Jesus"), who shares the story behind his nickname and his transition from college tennis at UW to pickleball after serving in the Peace Corps. Initially self-taught, Max later refined his game under a coach, focusing on deception, space control, and strategic aggression.

He discusses adapting as a shorter player, using two-handed counters, and the competitive yet cooperative nature of pickleball. Max also introduces his book, A Pickleball Gospel, an anthropological study on the sport’s community, culture, and addictiveness, now available on Amazon.