Third Shot Decision in Pickleball: Players are learning when to drop or drive the third shot in pickleball. The decision shapes how the point develops, especially after a serve return. It’s important because choosing the right shot helps players move forward and control the game more effectively.
Third Shot Is Key to Point Control
The third shot in pickleball decides how the point will go. When the serving team gets the ball back, players must choose whether to hit a soft drop or a fast drive. This moment, called the third shot, is often when the real game begins.
At higher levels, the return of serve becomes routine. That means all focus goes to the third shot. “You get to choose how this point’s going to go. Are you going to drop it or are you going to drive it?” the instructor said.
Third Shot Drop: Once the Only Option
Years ago, the third shot drop was seen as the only smart play. “When I came in, it was all about the third shot drop… you got to drop it,” the instructor shared. That thinking is still common today, but strategies have changed.
Drops are tough to do well. “The third shot drop’s about the hardest shot in the game to perfect.” That’s why many new players are encouraged to drive instead, especially if they’re at the 4.0 or 4.5 skill level. Driving feels easier for them and keeps the game moving.
Driving the Third Ball Isn’t the End
Choosing a drive doesn’t mean players should keep swinging hard. “If you drive your third shot, that does not mean drive your fifth shot… it just means you’re making that choice on the third ball,” the instructor explained.
After a drive, players should plan to drop the next ball. “You want to get to the kitchen line. You’re not going to get to the kitchen line if you drive balls from here.” Drives may be fast, but they don’t give players much time to move forward.
Position Affects the Best Choice
Where a player is standing matters when picking a shot. “If I am behind the Baseline pretty far, I might choose drive… low smooth ball that’s going to get you started moving forward.”
Balance matters, too. “If I’m nice and in balance… I’m probably going to hit a drop,” they said. A short return can change everything. “If I get a short ball and I’ve already got myself this far up… I’m going to choose drive.”
Live Examples on Court Show the Strategy
The instructor demonstrated live examples:
A short ball led to a drive.
A deep ball was hit with a soft drive to start moving in.
A balanced position allowed for a good drop that helped the player get to the net.
A weak return gave a chance for a quick two-step finish at the kitchen line.
Even when backhand is needed, “What am I going to do if I have to hit a backhand on a third? I’m going to drop it.” Sometimes the drive was the only choice. “I hit a decent drive, but this is as far as I made.” The goal is always to move forward, even if not all the way.
Smart Choices Create Better Results
Understanding how shot choice affects positioning is important. “Remember, now you’ve got to be effective with your fifth shot,” the instructor said. If players are far back and drive, they won’t reach the net quickly. If they’re closer, they can apply more pressure.
Pickleball players need to match their shot to their position and movement. “Be cognizant of what you’re creating with what third shot option you choose.”
News in Brief: Third Shot Decision in Pickleball
Pickleball players are learning when to drop or drive their third shot, a key decision that shapes the point. A drop gives time to move in, while a drive can start forward motion. Knowing the best time for each helps players improve court control and win more points.
ALSO READ: Pickleball Pro Reveals Game-Changing Tips for Mastering Aggressive Third Shot Drops