You might not know the name Benjamin Bramblett, but he’s suddenly in the spotlight thanks to one of the best stories to come out of the WALKER Australia Pickleball Cup.

Christian Alshon was originally set to team up with Federico Staksrud in men’s doubles. But when Staksrud couldn’t make the trip, Alshon turned to an unexpected partner: his own social media manager, Bramblett.

Bramblett has some pro tournament experience from years ago, but these days, his job is more about making the pros look good online than on the court. That changed Down Under, where he got the chance to step back into competition alongside one of the sport’s top players.

“Federico had some visa issues,” Alshon explained in a post-match interview following their Round of 32 victory.

“I heard about the visa issues a few nights ago. I woke up with the feeling that I was probably going to be playing, so I was mentally preparing,” Bramblett said. “But when you have Christian by your side, there’s not too much to worry about. I just keep it really basic. I know how to play pickleball, so I just do what I know how to do.”

The duo wasted no time making an impression, cruising to an 11-4, 11-2 triumph in their opening match before winning again in the Round of 16 to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.

But the story isn’t just that Bramblett competed. It’s that he’s making the most of it. He’s no random lefty Alshon pulled off the sidelines. Bramblett is a legitimate high-level player who can more than hold his own against the pros. Simply put, he can hang.

“We have low expectations because Ben has been out of the pro game for a while,” Alshon mentioned. “But he has played pro tournaments, so he does know what he’s doing.”

Judging by the highlight reels, you’d think these two had been playing together for years. With Alshon holding down the left side and Bramblett showing off quick hands and a dangerous flick, the unlikely pairing is looking right at home.

“I’ve known Ben for three years now. We’ve been working together for a while,” noted Alshon. “He’s my full-time hitting partner, my social media manager, and now he’s my partner on the court.”

Staksrud and other pros have embraced the unexpected storyline, with Staksrud even joking in the comments, “Ben is the future and I am the past.”

Anna Bright also joined the fun, tagging Andrei Daescu, Alshon’s usual men’s doubles partner, with a simple warning: “You’re toast.”

It’s always cool to see someone who works behind the scenes get the chance to play alongside the best in the game. After countless hours editing footage and capturing incredible moments through photography, Bramblett is getting to be part of the action himself.

Next up, Alshon and Bramblett will face No. 11 seeds George Wall and Joey Wild. And who knows? Given the way they’ve played so far, another win could be in the cards. Either way, it’s hard not to root for Bramblett as he continues to enjoy this unforgettable opportunity.

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