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AJ Koller

AJ Koller - Pro Pickleball Player

Gender

Male

Age

36

Location

Austin, Texas

Plays

Right-handed

Latest from AJ

AJ’s Profile

Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, AJ Koller was immersed in sports from an early age, playing both hockey and tennis. His passion for hockey led him to the University of Colorado, where he played for four years while earning a degree in civil engineering.

After college, Koller worked in construction project management for eight years, including contributing to the ‘Tiny House Movement. ‘ In 2018, seeking a new athletic challenge, he discovered pickleball in Las Vegas and quickly fell in love with the sport. By 2019, he was competing professionally, leveraging his hockey background to excel in pickleball.

Koller attributes his wrist strength and dexterity to his 16-year hockey career, describing his game as “all wrist. ” His favorite shot, the lob, showcases his ability to elevate simple strategies with finesse and creativity. In 2024, he joined the St.

Louis Shock as the Director of Amateur Development, aiming to elevate the skills of recreational and amateur players in the community. As of November 2025, Koller has competed in 77 professional tournaments, amassing a total of 368 career matches with a win rate of 46. 7%.

He currently plays for the Brooklyn Pickleball Team in Major League Pickleball (MLP). Known for his distinctive ‘crab walk’ along the kitchen line and lightning-fast reflexes, Koller is both an imposing presence at the net and one of the most skilled defenders in the game. His playing style is characterized by his “crab walk” along the kitchen line, swift reflexes, and strategic use of lobs—a skill he attributes to his tennis background.

Koller has secured multiple PPA titles and a bronze medal at the US Open, marking significant milestones in his professional career. He continues to compete at a high level, aiming to further his achievements and contribute to the growth of pickleball.

Popular Video

“It’s always tons of fun on family trips. We make up silly games, and it gets cutthroat, but it’s all in good fun.” (on family competitions)

— AJ Koller

Top Strategy Tips

1

Master the ‘crab walk’ along the kitchen line to enhance net coverage and defensive positioning.

2

Utilize the lob shot strategically to disrupt opponents’ positioning and create offensive opportunities.

3

Leverage wrist strength and dexterity to execute precise and powerful shots, especially in fast-paced exchanges.

🏆 Career Highlights

Won three PPA titles

Secured a bronze medal at the US Open

Defeated the Johns brothers in doubles play with partner Riley Newman