When Brett Warner steps onto a pickleball court, opponents take notice. The five-time national champion from Mesa, Arizona, combines relentless forehands with sharp focus and quick footwork. But off the court, Warner is working just as hard to build what he calls the strongest pickleball community in the world.
“I’ve got great friends and training partners here in Arizona,” Warner said. “Whether it’s your first time walking on the court by yourself, or families coming together to play, Arizona has the best pickleball community in the world.”
Warner’s journey began with tennis. He played at George Washington University, then discovered pickleball through his brother during the holidays. The learning curve was quick, he said. In 2021, his first year on the pro circuit, he qualified for nationals and won it all. Four more national titles followed in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
Now he’s using that experience to grow the sport. He co-founded PURE Pickleball & Padel, which has helped about 30 high schools across Arizona form pickleball clubs. These clubs can compete against each other, and through a partnership with USA Pickleball, players can qualify for national tournaments.
Ben Fier, an ambassador engagement manager for USA Pickleball, met Warner six years ago at a national tournament. Warner beat him in three minutes flat. “I told him as we got off the court, ‘Dude, you’re going to be the best singles player in Arizona,’” Fier recalled. Fier now oversees ambassadors in 13 western states and sees Warner as a perfect fit for the role.
Warner’s vision extends beyond schools. With backing from Caliber, a Scottsdale real estate firm, and HonorHealth, he’s planning a 197,000-square-foot indoor facility in the East Valley. The $65 million project, set to open in 2027, will include 48 pickleball courts, eight padel courts, a fitness center, pro shop, locker rooms, restaurants by Wolfgang Puck Catering, and a 1,200-seat pro arena.
Caliber CEO Chris Loeffler explained the investment decision: “You don’t bet on the horse, you bet on the jockey, and Warner is the jockey we were looking for.”
Warner sees the facility as a family destination. “We’re going to create the greatest family entertainment option in Arizona,” he said. “Everyone can show up, play together, and then wrap it up by sharing an amazing dinner together. It is a one-of-a-kind experience.”