Allyce Jones is known for being the “Mighty Mouse” on the pro pickleball tour. But aside from her impressive volleyball dives and never give up attitude on the court, sometimes it’s just as fun to watch her when she’s cheering on her teammates.

Some of her best highlight reels from pickleball are her celebrating her teammates in MLP. And recently, Jones went on the Pickleballers Podcast to talk about her team sports background and how that’s turned her into the best cheerleader on every bench.  

“I love team sports,” began Jones. “Growing up, I was kind of a multi-sport athlete. I was a softball player, a volleyball player, and I played basketball as well. I’ve always loved a team atmosphere.”

During every Major League Pickleball season, some of Jones’ best highlight reels come from her celebrations courtside.

“Of course, I’ve always wanted to be the best on court but I also love seeing other people succeed. That’s just something that’s natural for me,” Jones said.

“I contribute that to volleyball because I was a libero and I set up all the plays, and then I watched my teammates put it away. I was naturally happy for other people, I think that’s a little bit of a gift,” said Jones.

On the PPA Tour, the format is more individualistic where the athlete is competing for themselves and their partner in doubles. But in MLP, the athletes get to switch up that mentality and compete as a team. Playing for a team and representing an organization is a welcome change for a lot of the pros, Jones included.

Though this season of MLP has reached its end, Jones continues to keep that encouragement with her fellow pros during the PPA season.

Podcast co-host and pro athlete, Roscoe Bellamy attested to Jones’ infectious energy and support on tour.

“[Jones] is one of the first people to text me if I have a good win or let me know that I’m doing well. And I definitely notice that about you. You’re just so positive and it makes it fun to be on the court with you,” said Bellamy.

“But also, it is a gift that not a lot of competitors have. Especially with a lot of these players who have a tennis background, tennis is an individual sport. When you’re not on a team, it’s harder to root for other players,” he added.

Additionally, Jones was also a teacher and volleyball coach for 10 years. She’s been practicing that mindset of building up others and watching them succeed for so long, it’s become second nature.

Of course, Jones’ volleyball dive ATP is one of the best shots I’ve ever seen in professional pickleball, but it’s even more impressive that she has great sportsmanship in a highly competitive atmosphere.

During a time in pro pickleball where players are getting criticized for yelling too much or taunting their opponents, I love to see a pro like Jones who’s positive, cheering for her teammates, and showing good sportsmanship while still playing at an incredibly high level.

If you want to emulate any pro on the court, be Allyce Jones. Be the cheerleader who celebrates others well. And if you’re going to try her volleyball dive, at least buy some knee pads first.   

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