Forehands Middle

Episode 5: Dinks and Doobies

In this episode of the Forehands Middle podcast, Nico and Gino dive deep into the latest storylines shaking up the pickleball world. From their own recent tournament experiences to the ups and downs of fantasy pickleball, the brothers bring a mix of firsthand insight, sharp analysis, and plenty of humor. The conversation takes listeners courtside at the PPA Cincinnati tournament, spotlighting the continued dominance of Anna Leigh Waters in women’s singles, the shifting dynamics in men’s doubles, and the fast-evolving landscape of mixed doubles. They also celebrate the rise of the Kawamoto sisters, who continue to prove themselves as must-watch players. Beyond the matches, Nico and Gino unpack the business side of the sport with the launch of James Ignatowich’s new paddle company, RPM Pickleball—highlighting how pickleball’s growth is no longer just about the game, but also the personalities, stories, and brands shaping its future.

Episode 4: Fantasy Pickleball

In this episode of Forehands Middle, Nico and Gino dive into the wild mix of pickleball, social media, and sports culture. From dealing with online critics to sharing stories about fan interactions, the brothers give a candid look at life on and off the court. They shift gears with a fantasy pickleball draft, breaking down players they’d pick to build the ultimate squad, while debating where the sport is headed as it grows in popularity. Along the way, they touch on the challenges of paddle reviews, the influence of social media, and the crossover excitement of football season. The episode wraps with reflections on how pickleball’s future will be shaped not only by athletes and fans, but also by influencers, creators, and the culture surrounding the game.

Episode 3: Down Go the Queens

In this episode of Forehands Middle, Nico and Gino cover everything from fantasy football drafts in Vegas to the chaos of the PPA Las Vegas pickleball tournament. They break down the shifting dynamics of men’s and women’s doubles, the ongoing debate around bronze medal matches, and why court quality is becoming a bigger issue in pro pickleball. Highlights include: * Tyra & Jorja's standout performance in Vegas * Johnny G "Looch" emerging as a singles threat * Tanner’s unexpected villain arc * The never-ending importance of gear (and the guys’ own experiences with it) The brothers mix analysis with their trademark banter, giving listeners both strategy and satire as they look ahead to what’s next in pickleball.

Episode 2: The Giants

In this episode of Forehands Middle, Nico and Gino dive into their experiences at the MLP New York event and break down all the action on and off the court. From analyzing the Shock and Columbus Sliders to dissecting Ben Johns’ body language, the brothers give their unfiltered takes on player performances and team dynamics. They recap the finals between the Fives and the Sliders, highlighting key moments and what could have swung the outcome differently. Along the way, they dig into the bigger picture: how team chemistry shapes results, why indoor play and surface consistency matter, and the unique appeal of MLP vs. PPA formats. The episode wraps with bold predictions for upcoming tournaments—singles and doubles alike—and a look at the dominance of stars like Anna Leigh Waters, the pressure of playoff moments, and the controversies that make pro pickleball impossible to ignore.

Episode 1: Taking Balls

In this episode of the Forehands Middle podcast, hosts Nico and Gino discuss the latest happenings in Major League Pickleball, analyzing player performances, team dynamics, and strategies leading into the semifinals. They reflect on the excitement of the quarterfinals, the importance of player confidence, and the impact of pressure in matches. The conversation also touches on heated moments and controversies that arise in competitive sports, culminating in predictions for the upcoming semifinals.