Gain the Advantage in Pickleball | Strategies & Tips
Gain an Advantage in Pickleball by Keeping Opponents at the Base Line
One of the best ways to gain an advantage in pickleball is by keeping your opponents stuck at the base line. When you have them back and pinned there, you control the game. The key to maintaining this advantage is strategic returns and well timed movements. Know how to apply pressure effectively. Avoid letting opponents escape to the kitchen line. Let’s explore how you can achieve this.
How to Pin Opponents to the Base Line
To gain an advantage, your first priority is driving your opponents back to the base line and keeping them there. This limits their options and puts you in a great spot to control the point. Here’s how to do it:
- Use Deep Returns: Every time you hit a return, aim for depth. The deeper the ball, the harder it is for your opponents to get back into position. Keeping them at the base line buys you time and puts them on the defensive.
- Vary Your Returns: Switch up the height, spin, and direction of your returns to keep your opponents guessing. Consistency in depth is important, but variety in how you get the ball there is key to preventing them from anticipating your shots.
- Target Their Weak Spots: Everyone has a weakness, whether it’s struggling with low balls, spin, their backhand, or directional control. Focus on exploiting those weaknesses with well-placed shots that make your opponent uncomfortable.
- Smart Movement: After hitting a shot, be mindful of your next move. If you hit a high ball, step back, your opponent will likely make contact above the net. If you’ve hit a low shot, move forward, your opponent will have to lift the ball from below the net, setting you up for an easier shot.
Advantage in Pickleball: The Fourth Shot Push
The fourth shot push is one of the most effective ways to keep your opponents back on the court and maintain the advantage in pickleball. By pushing the ball deep on the fourth shot, you can prevent your opponents from moving forward and forcing you into a defensive position.
Mistakes to Avoid with the Fourth Shot Push
- Hitting Behind Yourself: Avoid hitting the ball from behind your body, it reduces your control and power. Always hit the ball in front of you for better placement and depth.
- Pushing the Ball Too Wide: Although hitting wide may seem tempting, it opens up an opportunity for your opponents to execute an ATP (Around the Post) shot, which can be very difficult to defend against.
For the best results with the fourth shot push, hit the ball deep and aim for your opponent’s feet. This keeps them on the defensive and prevents them from taking control of the rally.
Using the Volley Dink Strategically
The volley dink can be a useful tool in pickleball, but it should be used carefully. If your opponents are already back at the base line and you want to catch them off guard, a well executed volley dink can drop the ball just inches from the net and “die” there.
This works best if your opponents are on their heels expecting a smash, but don’t use this tactic too often. Athletic or quick opponents can read the shot and rush the net, gaining the upper hand. Instead, focus on keeping your shots deep and at their feet, unless you’re sure you can pull off a winning volley dink.
Advantage in Pickleball: Countering the Third Shot Drop
The third shot drop is a common strategy for opponents to regain control of the rally, but as the returning team, you can maintain your advantage by countering it effectively. The key is moving up to the kitchen line quickly and attacking aggressively.
Three Steps to Countering the Third Shot Drop
- Attack the Ball: When the ball is at net level, attack aggressively with topspin. Your goal is to hit a controlled, powerful shot that forces your opponent into a defensive position.
- Keep Them on the Defensive: Take balls out of the air whenever possible, even if they’re slightly below the net. Use topspin to keep the ball low and target your opponent’s feet to make it difficult for them to respond effectively.
- Know When to Cut Your Losses: Don’t attempt risky shots if they’re out of reach. Sometimes it’s better to let the ball bounce and reset at the kitchen line. Always focus on maintaining control and keeping the ball in play.
Mastering Your Advantage in Pickleball
Maintaining an advantage in pickleball boils down to keeping your opponents back and on the defensive. Smart shot selection, strategic movement, and the right use of techniques like the fourth shot push or deep return can keep your opponents pinned at the base line. By doing this, you remain in control of the point and give yourself the best chance to win the rally. Next time you step onto the court, remember these strategies to help you stay in control and keep your advantage throughout the match.
