9 STRAP Lands Multi-Shark Investment on Shark Tank

Sports performance brand secures $800,000 deal from Daniel Lubetzky, Rashaun Williams, Kevin O'Leary, and Kendra Scott

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:41pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a deconstructed baseball swing, with sharp, overlapping planes in vibrant navy, green, and orange colors, conveying the innovative technology behind the 9 STRAP product.The 9 STRAP deal on Shark Tank showcases the growing demand for innovative sports performance products that can help athletes improve their mechanics and reduce injury risk.San Clemente Today

9 STRAP, a sports performance brand focused on improving swing mechanics and reducing injury risk, appeared on ABC's Shark Tank and secured an $800,000 strategic investment from a panel of four Sharks: Daniel Lubetzky, Rashaun Williams, Kevin O'Leary, and Kendra Scott.

Why it matters

The multi-Shark deal represents a major milestone for 9 STRAP, a breakout brand that has quickly gained traction with over 50,000 athletes, coaches, and parents seeking effective solutions to common swing flaws and injury prevention. The investment and expertise from this high-profile group of Sharks will help 9 STRAP accelerate product innovation, expand into new sports, and scale distribution.

The details

During their Shark Tank pitch, 9 STRAP founders Ryan and Alyson Vaughn showcased the brand's patented technology, which is designed to improve swing mechanics and reduce injury risk across sports like baseball, softball, golf, and pickleball. The 9 STRAP product keeps an athlete's hands connected throughout the swing, reinforcing proper form, increasing bat speed, and helping prevent swing-related injuries.

  • 9 STRAP appeared on Shark Tank in Season 17, which aired on April 14, 2026.
  • The company was founded by Ryan Vaughn, who grew up playing competitive baseball in Yucaipa, California.

The players

9 STRAP

A sports performance company focused on helping athletes improve mechanics and reduce injury risk through simple, effective solutions.

Ryan Vaughn

The co-founder of 9 STRAP, who grew up playing competitive baseball and developed the company's patented technology to address common swing flaws and injury prevention.

Alyson Vaughn

The co-founder of 9 STRAP, who partnered with her husband Ryan to build the company.

Daniel Lubetzky

One of the Sharks who invested in 9 STRAP, known for his expertise in consumer brands and scaling businesses.

Rashaun Williams

One of the Sharks who invested in 9 STRAP, with experience in sports, retail, and technology.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Stepping into the Tank was an incredible experience, and we're beyond grateful to partner with this group of Sharks. Each brings a unique perspective across consumer, retail, brand-building, and scaling businesses, which will be invaluable as we enter our next phase of growth.”

— Ryan Vaughn, Co-founder of 9 STRAP

What’s next

With the backing of Lubetzky, Williams, O'Leary, and Scott, 9 STRAP plans to accelerate product innovation, expand into new sports categories, and scale distribution across e-commerce and retail channels.

The takeaway

The 9 STRAP deal on Shark Tank highlights the growing demand for innovative sports performance products that can help athletes improve their mechanics and reduce injury risk. The multi-Shark investment will provide the resources and expertise to help 9 STRAP further establish itself as a leading brand in this space.