If you thought the first half of Partners was intense, just wait until you dive into episodes 4-6. The documentary series, which follows the Professional Pickleball Association through the 2025 and early 2026 season, dropped all six episodes this week—and the finale trio brings even more drama, heart, and off-court moments that fans won't want to miss.
Heads up: Spoilers ahead for episodes 4-6! If you haven't finished the series yet, bookmark this and come back after you've watched.
Episode three ended on a somewhat open note, leaving viewers wondering where the story would go next. As it turns out, the final three episodes take a slight detour—offering fresh storylines that feel both connected and standalone. It's a smart narrative choice that keeps the momentum rolling without feeling repetitive.
Episode 4: Kate Fahey Steps Into the Spotlight
The fourth episode introduces us to Kate Fahey, and it doesn't hold back. We get an inside look at her infamous head-paddle slam—a moment that made headlines and sparked debate across the pickleball community. But more importantly, the episode peels back the layers of Fahey's personal life. At the time of filming, she was just weeks away from getting married in mid-2025, and the documentary captures that delicate balance between elite competition and real-life milestones.
Showrunner Dan Bradley called Fahey's story his favorite of the entire series. "There's something really special with the Fahey story," he shared. "It is amazing how well she's done with ALW, the most dominant athlete in the sport." For fans who follow the pro circuit, this deep dive offers a rare glimpse into the person behind the paddle.
Episode 5: Friendship on and off the Court
One of the most endearing threads in the later episodes is the bond between Gabriel Tardio and Hayden Patriquin. On the court, they're partners for the MLP St. Louis Shock. Off the court, they're best buddies—and the documentary captures their chemistry with plenty of humor and heart. It's a refreshing reminder that even at the highest levels of competition, the sport is built on relationships.
Episode 6: A Broader Vision for the Sport
The series finale broadens its lens beyond the pro tour. We get a touching look at an exhibition event where pros teamed up with adaptive athletes, showcasing pickleball's growing accessibility. (As a side note, I have a family member who's one of the top wheelchair pickleball players, so this segment hit close to home.) It's a powerful reminder that pickleball isn't just for the elite—it's a sport for everyone.
A Quick Note on Disclosure
Full transparency: I was interviewed for this documentary back in July 2025 and appear somewhat regularly in the first three episodes, with periodic appearances in the final three. If you're a cynic and think that might skew my take, I get it—feel free to take my review with a grain of salt. But I received no payment for my interviews and have no financial stake in the film. I'm just a fan of the sport and the stories it tells.
Whether you're a die-hard pickleball fan or just getting into the game, Partners is a must-watch for anyone who loves sports, competition, and the human stories behind the scoreboard. And if you're looking to channel that inspiration into your own game, there's no better time to gear up with the right paddle, apparel, and accessories. After all, every great partnership starts with the right equipment.