If you haven't yet caught the pickleball fever, Partners might just be the push you need. All six episodes of this compelling new documentary series have landed on the PPA YouTube channel and Amazon Prime Video, offering a front-row seat to the sport's explosive growth. Here's my spoiler-filled review of episodes 1-3, with a look at the second half coming soon.
Right out of the gate, the series zeroes in on two of the sport's brightest stars: Hunter Johnson and Parris Todd. Their story isn't just about powerful serves and quick reflexes at the net—it's also about the chemistry they share off the court. The documentary smartly weaves their personal journey into the high-stakes world of professional pickleball, giving us a human-interest angle that's hard to look away from.
A quick note before we dive in: Full disclosure—I was interviewed for this documentary back in July 2025, and you'll see me pop up here and there, especially toward the end of episode 2 and the start of episode 3. I received no payment or ownership stake for my participation, so consider this an insider's honest take. If that colors your view, I totally get it, but I'm here to give you the straight scoop.
From the very first episode, Partners walks a fascinating tightrope. As executive producer Mark Infante put it, the show "tiptoes between a traditional sports documentary and a reality show." And that's exactly what we get. One moment, we're deep in the weeds of the Professional Pickleball Association's business challenges—sponsorship deals, tour logistics, the growing pains of a sport finding its feet. The next, we're watching players share meals, navigate relationships, and deal with the pressure of life on the road.
This blend is what makes the first three episodes so binge-worthy. For longtime fans who already know tournament results, the off-court drama is a goldmine. I asked fellow pickleball expert Zane Navratil which side he preferred, and he didn't hesitate: "I like the reality part more. The sport is covered plenty now. But unless you're really deep in the know, the personal stories are what hook you."
Whether you're a seasoned player or just picking up a paddle for the first time, Partners offers something fresh. It's a reminder that behind every point scored and every trophy lifted, there's a very human story unfolding—one that might just inspire your next game.