Backhand Flick Crosscourt Shot in Pickleball: Pickleball player James Ignatowich from Delray Beach, Florida, is challenging common advice by promoting the backhand flick crosscourt shot. He explains that using this move during play, especially when taking the ball out of the air, can be a smart and successful way to attack opponents at the kitchen line.
Understanding the Flick Shot
James Ignatowich believes many players make the mistake of only speeding up shots down the line. But for him, the backhand flick crosscourt—when done correctly—can catch the other team off guard and create better chances to win points.
“People say you should not attack crosscourt—or at least, you should be attacking down the line almost every time, with the super rare crosscourt speedup. I say that if you can take the ball out of the air, especially on the backhand side, taking that speedup crosscourt as a flick can be a very effective play.” – (Ignatowich)
Why This Shot Works
He explains that the shot has three main advantages. First, players can reach farther out with their backhand when going crosscourt, which lets them strike the ball faster.
“So the reason for that is—standing behind the kitchen line—if you’re trying to go crosscourt with your backhand flick, you can actually reach further out towards the ball enabling you to hit it quicker than if you’re going down the line.” – (Ignatowich)
Next, the crosscourt flick travels over the lower part of the net, making it easier to get the ball across safely.
“Secondly, if I’m going crosscourt with that flick, I’m going over a lower part of the net because the net slopes towards the middle.” – (Ignatowich)
Lastly, the crosscourt direction gives players more space to aim for, making it harder for opponents to defend.
“And lastly, if I go crosscourt with that flick, I have significantly more space/court to hit the ball.” – (Ignatowich)
What It Means for Pickleball Players
James Ignatowich’s advice may lead players to rethink how they attack during games. His support for the crosscourt backhand flick highlights new ways to play smarter and faster. If more players try this move, it could change how points are played at the net and add variety to offensive strategies.
News in Brief: Backhand Flick Crosscourt Shot in Pickleball
James Ignatowich from Delray Beach, Florida, supports using the backhand flick crosscourt shot in pickleball. He says it helps players react faster, go over the lower part of the net, and aim at a bigger area. His tip may change how players attack at the kitchen line.
ALSO READ: Is Foam the Future? James Ignatowich Unveils Game-Changing Pickleball Innovations