Senior Pickleball Report
Black Desert Resort to Launch World-Class Pickleball Facility, Host Premier PPA Tour Event
Black Desert Resort launches 21 state-of-the-art pickleball courts in Spring 2026, hosting the prestigious Greater Zion Cup on the Carvana PPA Tour.
Southern Utah’s luxury destination is betting big on pickleball—and the sport’s fastest-growing fanbase is about to have a new reason to visit the red rock country.
Black Desert Resort in Ivins, Utah, announced plans this week to debut 21 state-of-the-art pickleball courts in Spring 2026, complete with a Championship Court that seats up to 1,000 spectators. The facility will host the Greater Zion Cup, one of only five prestigious Cup events on the Carvana PPA Tour, positioning the resort as a premier destination for professional and recreational pickleball.
A Facility Built for the Future of Pickleball
Designed by Swabeck Architecture, the courts will blend into the dramatic landscape of red rocks and ancient lava fields that define the Greater Zion region. But it’s not just about the views—though those will be spectacular.
The facility is being built with serious technology in mind. Players and fans can expect advanced systems for swing and movement assessment, real-time ball tracking, and automated line-calling during tournaments. Heated and misted cabanas will provide comfort year-round, while VIP and general seating options ensure spectators have a front-row experience whether they’re watching a casual match or a championship showdown.
Future phases will add eight more courts, bringing the total to 29 and cementing Black Desert’s status as a pickleball hub in the American Southwest.
The Greater Zion Cup: A Major Stop on the Pro Circuit
In partnership with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Greater Zion, Black Desert Resort will host the Greater Zion Cup in 2026. This isn’t just another tournament—it’s one of the most significant events on the professional calendar.
Cup tournaments award 1,500 ranking points, compared to the standard 1,000 points at Open events. That makes every match at the Greater Zion Cup critical for players looking to climb the world rankings or solidify their position among the sport’s elite.
“Southern Utah is a very special place for the Carvana PPA Tour, and we are thrilled to bring our signature area tournament to Black Desert Resort for the Greater Zion Cup,” said Connor Pardoe, Founder and CEO of the Carvana PPA Tour. “In partnership with our friends at Black Desert Resort and Greater Zion, we are proud to showcase this celebrated event and the best pickleball players in the world to some of the country’s most passionate pickleball fans.”
Economic Impact and Community Vision
For Black Desert Resort managing partner Patrick Manning, the pickleball courts represent more than just another amenity—they’re part of a broader strategy to drive regional tourism and support the local economy.
“Here at Black Desert, the pickleball courts are part of our broader mission to support the local community and economy by attracting visitors, creating jobs, and driving regional tourism,” Manning said. “The Greater Zion Cup at Black Desert Resort will further enhance Southern Utah’s reputation as a premier destination for sports and recreation, benefiting local businesses and the surrounding community.”
Brittany McMichael, director of Greater Zion, echoed that sentiment. “The Greater Zion Cup at Black Desert Resort puts our region on the global map for the sport of pickleball. The new pickleball facility will be a world-class venue in one of the most breathtaking settings, making it the ideal home for this event. We are proud to be the title sponsor and look forward to welcoming athletes and fans from around the world in 2026 and sharing our region with them.”
A Resort Built for Adventure
Black Desert Resort recently completed its resort center, establishing itself as a luxury destination that goes well beyond golf. The property features 447 rooms and suites across a Hotel and Resort Collection, seven dining venues, the 15,000-square-foot Plume Spa & Wellness, an infinity-edge pool with cabanas, and 45,000 square feet of meeting and event space.
The resort is anchored by an 18-hole Tom Weiskopf-designed championship golf course and hosts annual PGA TOUR and LPGA Tour events. Spanning over 600 acres, Black Desert offers access to 200+ acres of preserved land and six miles of hiking trails, all set against the striking backdrop of black lava beds and vermillion sandstone cliffs.
Future phases will include a water park, additional rooms and suites, and expanded dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Why This Matters for Pickleball
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, with millions of players across all age groups and skill levels. The sport’s accessibility, social nature, and competitive depth have made it a phenomenon—and resorts like Black Desert are taking notice.
By investing in a world-class facility and partnering with the PPA Tour, Black Desert is positioning itself at the intersection of luxury hospitality and competitive sports tourism. The Greater Zion Cup will bring top athletes, dedicated fans, and media attention to a region already known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
For players, the chance to compete in one of the most scenic settings in the country—with cutting-edge technology and championship-level amenities—will be a major draw. For fans, it’s an opportunity to watch the best in the world while exploring one of the most iconic landscapes in the American West.
What’s Next
The pickleball courts are set to open in Spring 2026, with the Greater Zion Cup scheduled to follow. As construction progresses, Black Desert Resort will continue to release details about tournament dates, ticket availability, and player lineups.
For more information, visit blackdesertresort.com or call 844-237-8824. Follow @blackdesertresort on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for updates.
Whether you’re a pro chasing ranking points or a recreational player looking for your next adventure, Black Desert Resort is about to become a must-visit destination for anyone who loves pickleball—and the stunning landscapes of Greater Zion.
SOURCE Black Desert Resort
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