Rick Barry: From Basketball Legend to Pickleball Evangelist
Some people name-drop. With Rick Barry, it’s more like a name-deluge. The former NBA and ABA star has a treasure trove of stories featuring conversations with fellow basketball Hall of Famers, life-changing advice from golf icons, and even a recent encounter with a Heisman Trophy winner. Yet, it’s his admiration for rising stars that truly captivates him, particularly when he speaks about teenage pickleball sensation Anna Leigh Waters.
Two years ago, Barry met Waters, who has since become a household name in the world of pickleball. “I told Anna Leigh, ‘You have done something that’s never, ever, ever going to happen again. There is no way that a girl, 15 years old, is going to become the best pickleball player in the world,’” Barry recalled. Now 17, Waters recently secured her 29th career Triple Crown at the Pro Pickleball Association Virginia Beach Cup, a feat that leaves Barry in awe as he embraces this new athletic universe at the age of 80.
A New Athletic Passion
Rick Barry, a member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, has fully immersed himself in the world of pickleball. He encourages former NBA players like Chris Mullin and Hakeem Olajuwon to take up the sport, emphasizing its competitive nature. “I’m out there for one reason and one reason only: I’m out there to win, OK?” Barry stated, showcasing his relentless competitive spirit. “I can do the social thing afterward if you want to sit and socialize. But on the court, I really want to win.”
Barry’s transition to pickleball has been nothing short of remarkable. His hand-eye coordination, combined with his 6-foot-7 frame and fierce competitive streak, has allowed him to excel quickly. He ranks among the nation’s top age-group players and recently earned the Triple Crown at the U.S. Open in Naples, Florida, winning titles in men’s 80-plus singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
The Competitive Edge
As Barry prepares to compete in multiple events at the Huntsman Senior World Games in St. George, Utah, he reflects on the physical benefits of pickleball. “I love it,” he said. “It’s a great workout without killing yourself. Tennis, it’s too hard on your body — shoulders, elbows, and knees. You’re covering so much more court.”
Known for his underhanded free throws during his basketball career, Barry now applies his deft touch and mental approach to the pickleball court. He emphasizes the importance of a strong serve, noting that a good serve can dictate the pace of the game and put opponents at a disadvantage.
A Legacy of Excellence
Barry’s basketball career is legendary. Over 15 years, he averaged 24.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.9 assists, ranking fourth all-time in NBA free-throw percentage. After retiring from basketball in 1980, he turned to golf, achieving a 1-handicap but ultimately finding the sport frustrating. “I had to find something. I just love to compete,” he explained.
His journey through various sports led him to long drive competitions, where he captured four world championships before transitioning to pickleball in 2019 at the suggestion of his wife, Lynn. “I said, ‘What the hell is pickleball?’” Barry recalled, but once he tried it, he was hooked.
The Rise of Pickleball
Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has exploded in popularity across the United States. Barry has become an evangelist for the sport, encouraging others to join in. “I’m telling you, this thing is going to be so incredible,” he said. “It’s a phenomenon, and it’s not going away anytime soon.”
The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) reported a staggering 223.5 percent increase in U.S. pickleball players, with over 13.6 million people picking up a paddle in 2023. Barry has even persuaded fellow NBA Hall of Famers like Chris Mullin to give it a shot, and he’s been trying to convince Hakeem Olajuwon to join the fun.
Celebrity Connections
Barry’s involvement in pickleball has also led him to connect with other sports legends. He participated in the PickleBowl celebrity pro-am hosted by former Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel. Wuerffel’s enthusiasm for the sport is evident, as he was recently drafted by the Denver Iconics of the National Pickleball League.
Barry has also seen tennis greats like Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf embrace pickleball, with Agassi being an early adopter. He recalls his interactions with John McEnroe, who remains skeptical about the sport. “I got on John’s ass. I said, ‘John, this is not going anywhere,’” Barry shared, highlighting his passion for promoting pickleball.
The Future of Rick Barry
As Barry continues to compete and promote pickleball, he remains a vibrant figure in the sports world. His relentless drive to win and his ability to adapt to new challenges keep him engaged and active. Whether he’s on the pickleball court or reminiscing about his basketball days, Rick Barry’s legacy is one of excellence, competition, and a love for sports that transcends generations.