Tanner Tomassi Breaks Down the Banana Serve Technique: Professional pickleball player Tanner Tomassi shared an Instagram tutorial teaching fans how to master the “banana serve.” This unique shot adds spin and shape, giving players a strategic edge on the court.
In the video, Tomassi outlined three key steps for executing the banana serve: making contact on the ball’s outside, flicking the wrist for side spin, and following through vertically to shape the shot. He emphasized precision and technique over power for this advanced serve.
Key Steps to the Banana Serve
Tomassi explained that the banana serve involves a distinct approach compared to standard serves.
“When we make contact to the ball, we want to think about only connecting on the outside of the ball, like we’re shaving the side of it only.” – (Tanner Tomassi)
This outside contact generates the characteristic spin of the banana serve. Next, he highlighted the importance of wrist motion.
“When we make contact to the ball, we want to emphasize using our wrist in this flicking motion on the side of the ball to accelerate the side spin.” – (Tanner Tomassi)
This motion ensures the serve gains the desired speed and spin. Lastly, Tomassi discussed the follow-through technique.
“Instead of coming around our shoulder like we normally would, think of keeping it very linear, only coming up the side.” – (Tanner Tomassi)
This motion maximizes the shape and trajectory of the serve.
Expert Advice for Players
Tomassi clarified the difference between the banana serve and other spin serves, like the screwball serve. “With a normal serve, we hit through it. That’s not what we’re doing here,” he said, emphasizing the unique technique of connecting with only the ball’s side.
The tutorial concluded with a call for viewers to engage. “Make sure to follow me if you just learned something new,” Tomassi said, inviting players to join his growing community for more tips.
Why It Matters
The banana serve adds a creative and effective tool to a player’s arsenal, disrupting opponents’ rhythm and creating new scoring opportunities. Tomassi’s tutorial breaks down this complex serve into manageable steps, making it accessible for players ready to elevate their game.
News in Brief: Tanner Tomassi Breaks Down the Banana Serve Technique
Professional pickleball player Tanner Tomassi shared an Instagram tutorial teaching fans the banana serve, a spin-heavy, advanced shot that disrupts opponents’ rhythm. He outlined three steps: contacting the ball’s outside, flicking the wrist for side spin, and following through vertically for precise shape.
Tomassi emphasized precision over power and invited viewers to master this creative serve, adding flair and strategy to their pickleball game.