AUSTIN, Texas — Grammy-winning artist Lil Wayne is stepping into the world of pickleball as he becomes part-owner of the Texas Ranchers, a team based in Austin and one of eight founding Major League Pickleball (MLP) teams in the nation.

But Weezy isn't just taking ownership, he's going to be working on building the team as a strategic adviser, something he says he's excited for.

"Pickleball is the moment and I'm excited to be part of the Texas Ranchers ownership group," said Lil Wayne. "I've enjoyed watching and couldn't pass up the opportunity to join this team of owners."

As strategic adviser, Lil Wayne will have a say in creative and logistical projects. According to a news release, he will support the development of apparel collaborations and work with the team to build pickleball courts in underserved areas.

Pickleball is a paddle sport similar to tennis where two or four players hit a ball back and forth over a net. The game has been popularized in the last few years with many cities having their own professional teams in the MLP.

The Texas Ranchers were founded in 2021. The MLP is currently in season two of its schedule, with an upcoming game in Dallas. There are 24 teams total.

As of this year, the league now offers up to $5 million in prize money to winning players.