Brian Baker

Brian, a proud member of Team ONIX, officially began his competitive pickleball journey on January 3, 2017—but his connection to the sport goes back much further. Growing up in the Seattle suburb of Kirkland, Washington, Brian first experienced pickleball in the mid-1980s as a junior tennis player. His local gym had courts, paddles, and balls available, and he remembers the fun and novelty of the game leaving a lasting impression on him as a young athlete.

Years later, while living in Arizona, Brian reconnected with pickleball thanks to a familiar face—fellow ONIX player David Furman. The two, both former tennis players, heard about pickleball’s rising popularity and decided to give it a try. What started as a casual hobby quickly turned into a full-blown passion. “Once I found out there were tournaments and competition in pickleball,” Brian recalls, “I got hooked.”

Since then, Brian has never looked back. Now in his first year as a senior pro, he’s already made waves on the tournament scene. He is a contracted National Pickleball League (NPL) athlete, a U.S. Open Senior Pro Semi-Finalist, and an APP Senior Pro Medalist. His competitive spirit, honed from years on the tennis court, has translated seamlessly to pickleball. Brian’s short-term goals include winning more senior pro tournaments and making a run for the top spot in his league. Long term, he hopes to continue growing as a player, staying healthy, and inspiring others to stay active later in life.

When Brian’s not on the court, he’s working full-time for DR Horton’s mortgage company, proving that it’s possible to balance a successful professional career with elite-level competition. He currently resides in Gig Harbor, Washington, and is a proud member of Canterwood Country Club, where he often trains and plays with local athletes. Brian finds the game to be the perfect combination of high-level strategy, physical activity, and fun.

As a Team ONIX athlete, Brian plays with the ONIX Evoke Premier Raw Carbon14mm paddle and is a big believer in ONIX’s commitment to performance. “ONIX offers equipment that fits all styles and skill levels,” he says. “And the Dura is the best ball ever created.” That combination of quality and consistency is what helps Brian stay sharp as a competitor. Whether he’s practicing drills, playing in a round robin, or stepping into championship matches, Brian trusts ONIX gear to deliver.

Brian has always looked up to fellow left-handed legend John McEnroe, whose fiery spirit and passion for the game continue to inspire him. Like McEnroe, Brian is motivated by the challenge of pushing limits and competing at a high level, no matter the age. He believes that staying active is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves—and pickleball makes that possible.

“Pickleball lets me stay competitive while staying healthy, and it’s been incredible to enter this next chapter playing senior pro events,” Brian says. He’s proud to be a part of a brand that share his love for the game and supports players at every stage.

To shop Brian's pickleball shop recommendations, click this link.