New Era: The Dink Minor League Pickleball Launches 3v3 Format

Forget what you thought you knew about Minor League Pickleball. A new format is shaking things up—and it’s faster, fiercer, and fully focused on team strategy. Introducing MiLP’s brand-new 3v3 gendered format, designed to streamline match play and highlight the power of coordinated trio teams.

No DreamBreakers. No mixed matchups. Just three-on-three action that goes straight to the heart of competition.

Love pickleball? Then you'll love our free newsletter. We send the latest news, tips, and highlights for free each week.

How 3v3 works:

• Gendered Teams Only: 3 women vs 3 women or 3 men vs 3 men.
• Three Games, No DreamBreaker: Each match consists of just 3 games—simplifying the format while preserving the intensity.
• Faster Events: The condensed structure allows for quicker match resolution and opens up more play opportunities during a tournament day.
• Dual Participation: Players can compete in both the traditional MiLP format and the new 3v3 format at Nationals, if they qualify.

This is a standalone format, not a variation of the mixed structure you’re used to.

Why We Introduced It:

Put simply, we wanted a more streamlined match format—and players are loving it. The new 3v3 setup delivers faster events and a more accessible experience for both players and organizers.

It keeps the strategic team element that defines Minor League Pickleball, but shortens the overall match by removing the DreamBreaker.

For new teams, it’s an easy on-ramp. For veterans, it’s a fresh challenge. And for captains, it’s a new opportunity to build rosters around specific strengths.

A New Pathway to Nationals

The 3v3 format is officially part of the Dink MiLP ecosystem and will be offered at Nationals across multiple DUPR divisions—including DUPR 9, 11, 13, and 15.

That means your team’s performance in 3v3 can punch a ticket to the biggest amateur stage in pickleball. Same structure, same intensity—just with a tighter format and focused rosters.

Check dupr.com/minorleague for your upcoming events and look for a 3v3 format near you.