Jordan Briones and Mari Humberg: Jordan Briones recently featured Mari Humberg in a YouTube video focused on applying maximum pressure on opponents during pickleball transitions. The video explores strategies to enhance gameplay and emphasizes the importance of making it difficult for opponents to score.
The Importance of Transitioning
In the video, Humberg discusses how much content is available on transitioning but not enough on putting pressure on opponents. She states, “There’s a lot more videos about thirds and fifths and strategy on that rather than fourths, six, and eighths.” Understanding how to put pressure on opponents during these critical moments can help players gain more opportunities to serve and score.
Effective Shot Strategies
Briones and Humberg demonstrate two key types of shots: high balls above the net and low balls below it. When faced with high balls, Humberg advises hitting hard and aiming for the opponent’s feet. She explains that placing shots between the opponent’s feet makes it difficult for them to respond effectively.
For low balls, Humberg emphasizes generating spin rather than power. She explains, “I cannot generate as much power on a shot that’s below the net.” Instead, she focuses on keeping the shot low with topspin, making it challenging for opponents to attack.
Creating Pressure During Play
The duo also practices various scenarios to show how to apply pressure. By hitting the ball to the opponent’s feet and using spin, they force the opponent into uncomfortable positions. Humberg points out that keeping the ball low is key to making it harder for the opponent to reset and attack.
Throughout the video, they stress that players can still transition even with the pressure but should aim to create more challenges for their opponents. Humberg concludes, “This is to make it harder for them and for them to feel a little bit more pressure hitting thirds.”
News in Brief: Jordan Briones and Mari Humberg
Jordan Briones and Mari Humberg’s YouTube video highlights strategies for maximizing pressure on opponents in pickleball. They discuss the importance of shot placement, using spin for low balls, and creating uncomfortable situations for opponents. This knowledge aims to hone player performance and increase scoring opportunities.
ALSO READ: John Cincola’s Pickleball Tips for Strategic Drop Shots Techniques