James Ignatowich’s Pickleball Improvement Tips: James Ignatowich, a professional pickleball player, shared advice on how to get better in the latest episode of The James Ignatowich Show. He said players should always try to play against better opponents. He also explained why reaching the kitchen line is more important than using the “right” shot. He shared tips about indoor and outdoor play and reminded players that staying smart and flexible wins games.
Playing Better Players Makes You Better
James Ignatowich believes the best way to improve is by facing tougher players.
“Playing better players exposes your weaknesses in ways a lesson can’t. Real game experience against high-level competition forces you to adapt and evolve — fast.” – (Ignatowich)
According to James Ignatowich, drills and coaching are helpful, but real matches test players more.
“Sometimes we want to only play with people at our level or below because it feels good to win. But that doesn’t make you better.” – (Ignatowich)
He explained that playing tougher matches forces players to stop relying on old habits. They must get smarter and learn new strategies.
What Matters Most at the Kitchen Line
James Ignatowich also spoke about what really works at the kitchen line. He said there isn’t one “right” way to hit a third shot. What matters is if the shot helps you get to the kitchen line.
“The most important thing is not what drop you use. It’s whether or not it gets you to the kitchen line.” – (Ignatowich)
He gave examples from the pro tour. Federico Staksrud prefers a backhand slice drop, while others like a top spin drop or a drive.
“You don’t have to look flashy. You have to be effective. The goal is simple: get to the line and win from there.” – (Ignatowich)
James Ignatowich said that Collin Johns is a great example. He doesn’t use top spin drops or hard drives, but he still reaches the line every time.
“Forget what looks cool. Get to the line — that’s what wins matches.” – (Ignatowich)
Playing Indoors vs. Outdoors
James Ignatowich also talked about the growing number of indoor pickleball courts. While he started playing outdoors and still prefers it, he sees how indoor play is growing fast.
“There are tons of new indoor courts opening. And they change the game more than people realize.” – (Ignatowich)
He said that indoors, without wind, it’s easier to hit accurate lobs, resets, and dinks. But the faster ball makes the game quicker. Players need to be more aggressive.
“When I’m playing indoors, I try to keep my margins tighter. Balls travel faster, so I’m usually more aggressive — you want to be the first to strike.” – (Ignatowich)
Still, James Ignatowich warned that there’s no one way to play.
“Pickleball isn’t a one-size-fits-all game. What works one day or against one player might fail the next. Stay adaptable.” – (Ignatowich)
Smart Choices Win Games
One of James Ignatowich’s key points was that good players don’t follow rules blindly. They make smart decisions based on what’s happening in the moment.
“There’s no ‘always hit a drop’ or ‘always drive on a short return.’ It’s about how comfortable you feel, what your opponent is doing, and how the game’s unfolding.” – (Ignatowich)
He suggested that if you’re doing well at the kitchen line, you should keep it simple. If not, switch it up.
“If you’re winning the kitchen exchanges? Keep it clean and simple — a soft slice drop might be all you need. If you’re getting out-dinked? Make it messy. Drive the fifth, throw in some topspin, and create chaos.” – (Ignatowich)
“You’ve got to read the moment. Sometimes you drop. Sometimes you drive. Sometimes you just survive.” – (Ignatowich)
What Players Should Take Away
James Ignatowich ended with clear advice: to improve, play stronger opponents, focus on reaching the kitchen line, and make smart decisions during matches.
“Pro players aren’t winning because they’re hitting fancier shots. They’re winning because they’re at the kitchen line more often and making smarter choices.” – (Ignatowich)
News in Brief: James Ignatowich’s Pickleball Improvement Tips
James Ignatowich says pickleball players improve faster by playing better opponents. In his podcast, he shares tips on smart kitchen play and adapting to indoor courts. His key advice: focus on getting to the kitchen line, not on flashy shots. Success comes from smarter choices and tougher matches.
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