How a Driveway Game Sparked Brandon Nakanelua’s Pickleball Journey

Pickleball Spotlight: Brandon Nakanelua

Where health, connection, and community meet

Brandon Nakanelua is easy to spot on the courts—at least, he used to be. Known for his colorful mohawk, Brandon recently showed up with a new look, the hair gone but the energy unmistakably the same. That presence carries into his pickleball story, which began unexpectedly on a makeshift driveway court. After a quick crash course on the rules and a rough first game, he walked away hooked.

Pickleball has played a major role in improving his health, and for Brandon, the game is just as much about mental well-being and connection as it is about physical fitness.

Today, he’s chasing big goals on the courts and building lifelong friendships while he’s at it.

Without further ado, please meet Brandon Nakanelua!

Currently residing in: NĀNĀKULI.

Where did you grow up, and what high school did you go to?

I grew up in Makakilo until my parents got a homestead in Nanakuli in 1994, and went to Campbell High! PS. Who won the state title in football, by the way!

How did you discover pickleball, and when did you start playing?

I went to a party/get-together at my friend Anne Namba’s house. When I got there, they turned their driveway into a pickleball court, painted lines and all! She gave me a quick rules lesson, then played. Let’s just say I sucked really badly, but at the same time, I was hooked!

What do you love most about pickleball?

First and foremost, the best thing is the exercise! Because of pickleball, my high blood pressure has gone from hypertension stage 1 to the normal range. So I’m an advocate of playing; it gets you healthy, but not only physically but mentally. Through all the people I’ve met, I’ve made great friends and unbreakable bonds, which is why the social aspect is what’s also great about the game.

How often do you play?

3-5 times a week.

What paddle are you using, and what do you like about it?

For rec play, I use the banned Joola Gen 3 Magnus, haha. I’m kidding, kinda. My main paddle currently is the CRBN TruFoam Genesis Hybrid with a Trigger Grip Pro.

What is the next goal you’re working toward (in pickleball or otherwise)?

To win a gold at 4.0 men’s doubles and mixed doubles and a medal in singles, lol.

What do you do outside of pickleball (hobbies, work, volunteerism, school, etc.)?

There’s life besides pickleball? HA! I’m your friendly neighborhood opala man by day, Batman by night. Again, kidding. I also just started riding a motorcycle, which is quicker to get to the pickleball courts. I also eat a lot.