James Ignatowich’s Pickleball Strategy: Professional pickleball player James Ignatowich has shared a key strategy for right-side players: using an aggressive dink to the opponent’s backhand. In a video shared as part of his “Right-Side Positioning” series in June 2025, James Ignatowich explained how this move can help players control rallies and set up for strong follow-up shots.
How the Shot Works
The aggressive dink is aimed at the backhand of the left-side opponent across the net. This is especially helpful when that player is focused on protecting the middle of the court or helping their partner.
“We’re going to talk about a crucial shot to hit when you’re trying to be aggressive on the right side of the court. And this would be the aggressive dink to the backhand of the left-side player in front of you.” – (James Ignatowich)
By aiming for the sideline and not the center, the right-side player can push the opponent into an awkward position. This often forces the opponent to open up their paddle and slice the ball.
Forcing Errors and Creating Chances
This type of dink can give the right-side player the upper hand. The goal is to make the left-side player hit a weak return. This return often lands near the sideline and can be attacked.
“If you have a dead dink and you feel like you can attack pretty well from the right side of the court, that left-side player might be shading backhand, might be looking to go toward the middle and try to protect their partner.” – (James Ignatowich)
“So then that sideline of where their backhand would be is a great situation to do this because you’ll do a couple things. You’ll force them to open up their paddle face and then slice the dink, which is a great way for you to take control of the rally.” – (James Ignatowich)
Setting Up for the Erne
After hitting the aggressive dink, players should be ready for a chance to attack. If the opponent pushes the ball down the sideline, this opens up a chance to perform an Erne—a powerful shot that involves jumping around the corner of the kitchen.
“And also you could set yourself up for the Erne. So that would look something like this. And then getting ready to Erne the next ball because that left-side player in front of you might have to short hop it and push it right down the line. And that gives you the opportunity to jump the corner and be aggressive.” – (James Ignatowich)
Why This Tip Matters
This strategy is useful for any player who wants to get better at playing on the right side of the court. It teaches players how to place their dinks with purpose, not just hit them over the net.
It also shows how to use smart positioning and timing to create chances to win points. By using this move and staying alert for an Erne, right-side players can become more aggressive and confident during matches.
News in Brief: James Ignatowich’s Pickleball Strategy
James Ignatowich shared a footwork tip for right-side pickleball players: dink aggressively to the backhand of the left-side opponent. This forces weaker returns and opens up chances for an Erne. The strategy helps players stay in control and attack effectively from the right side of the court.
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