Meet The Pros: Mohammed Massaquoi

Meet the Pros: Mohammed Massaquoi

I came across Mohammed's name on the medal list at the 2016 US Open Pickleball Championship Tournament. I thought this pickleball pro is one to watch, since he can compete with some of the best, including Steve Wong, Rob Elliott and Tao Thongvanh.  Enjoy!

Can you list for us your major wins so we can correctly introduce you to our readers?

2016 Fall Brawl, Men’s Doubles, Skill 5.0 with Tao Thongvanh - Bronze
2016 US OPEN, Men’s Doubles Age with Steve Wong – Bronze
I beat Robert Elliot 1 out of three games 11-1 at Mid-South Regionals. I have won gold in multiple local tournaments.

What paddle do you play with and why?

I have played with the Onix React paddle and currently play with the prototype Onix Voyager because it's heavy enough to control the strongest impact from the outdoor ball, but it's not too heavy. Also the handle is thick and long which fits well in my large hands.

What’s your pickleball story? How were you introduced to pickleball?

I consider myself to be open minded. I've played pick-up basketball my entire adult life. So one day when I arrived at the community center courts and found that there was no basketball because of pickleball, I decided, 'Why not?' I've been playing ever since.

What’s your preference – playing indoor or outdoor?

It gets hot in Houston so we mostly play indoors. I'm a much better indoor player than outdoor.

Do you like singles or doubles better? Why?

I like doubles because it embodies what pickleball was created to be: a way to have fun with multiple people. Singles is more grueling and antagonistic.

What’s your favorite place to play? Why?

The Pearland YMCA is the place to play in greater Houston. The courts have plenty of space. The competition is good and I like the players. Besides that. I love to play anywhere where I can find great competition.

What’s your secret sauce? Any tips for players?

Every opponent is a puzzle. If you learn what the right decisions are, then winning is just
a matter of repetition.

What’s your day job?

I'm a certified Loss Control Consultant. I've been doing insurance surveys since 2007.

How many hours a week do you play? How do you make time to play?

I only play about 6 or 7 hours a week. I make my own schedule and so usually I play Fridays for sure.

Any lucky rituals before a big tournament?

I've learned that it's better to drink a whole lot of fluids and take cramp pills before the tournament starts and not during the tournament or after you start cramping.

Do you have any pickleball goals you’d like to share?

My goal is to get a gold in the Open Division of a Tier 2 tournament.