James Ignatowich Reveals the Sideline Secret: Professional pickleball player James Ignatowich has shared advice for right-side players looking to land successful speed-up shots. In a new lesson from his Right-Side Positioning series, James Ignatowich breaks down how to surprise opponents by hitting sharp shots down the sideline. The technique is useful when the opponent favors backhand shots and slides to protect their body.
Using the Sideline for Advantage
James Ignatowich explained that players on the right side can win points by aiming at the wide sideline. He said this move works best when the opponent is playing on the left and prefers backhand returns.
“For me, when I’m on the right side of the court, a very very good speed up is to hit the ball kind of off pace but right on that wide sideline so that the player that is on the left side of the court is reaching like this.” – (Ignatowich)
He added that many left-side players tend to shift to their right, making the sideline open for attack.
“This one works especially well against players who like to sit backhand because if somebody’s sitting backhand on the left their tendency is going to be sliding to their right.” – (Ignatowich)
Faking the Opponent and Controlling Pace
Ignatowich also explained how players can trick their opponents. He said that if it looks like a hard shot is coming straight at them, they might lean too far to one side.
“If it looks like somebody’s gonna hit the ball hard at you and you’re somebody who sits backhand you’re probably gonna slide to your right to protect your body.” – (Ignatowich)
He encouraged players to act like they’re hitting a fast ball, but instead send a slower shot toward the sideline.
“So sell it and then go off pace right to that sideline.” – (Ignatowich)
Why This Advice Matters
James Ignatowich’s tips can help players win more points by using smart angles and body fakes. Right-side players who understand how to read their opponent’s habits and control shot speed can turn a simple position into a strong advantage. These small changes can lead to better teamwork and smarter plays.
News in Brief: James Ignatowich Reveals the Sideline Secret
Pickleball player James Ignatowich teaches right-side players how to hit speed-up shots down the sideline. He shows how to fake out opponents who favor backhands and explains how shot speed and direction can create open space. The move helps players control points and improve strategy.
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