James Ignatowich’s Backhand Lob Technique: Professional pickleball player James Ignatowich recently shared his method for creating topspin with a two-handed backhand lob after the ball bounces. While he mostly uses this shot during practice, he says it can be very useful, especially in windy conditions or when needing extra court space.
This unique shot helps players add topspin, improve their lobbing technique, and create better chances to win points. James Ignatowich explained how timing, low contact, and court angle play big roles in making the shot effective.
How the Shot Works
James Ignatowich focuses on hitting the ball after it bounces and making contact at a low point. He believes this gives better control over topspin.
“One of the things with a two-handed backhand off the bounce lob is the lower that you make contact with the ball, I personally feel like it’s actually easier to then hit that shot at a high level,” said James Ignatowich. “If you’re contacting it lower… it lets you get under the ball more.”
By waiting for the ball to drop, he says it becomes similar to a third-shot drop, which allows him to lift the ball more easily with spin.
Aiming Crosscourt for Better Results
James Ignatowich prefers to aim cross-court for this shot because it gives more room for error. He said the court’s shape provides extra space, helping players avoid hitting the ball out.
“For the most part when I’m hitting this shot I’m going to go crosscourt,” said James Ignatowich. “I feel like going crosscourt is better because due to the geometry of the court you’ve got an extra four or five feet of space to hit it.”
He also added that cross-court lobs are safer in windy conditions, which can make the ball harder to control.
Position and Body Movement Matter
James Ignatowich highlights the importance of staying low to the ground while preparing for the shot. This helps him get under the ball and keep the shot smooth.
“It’ll look a little bit like this I’m making sure to get as low as I can so that I’m comfortable hitting it,” said James Ignatowich. “If I have to reach… I’m not going to be able to get under the ball as well as I need to.”
Staying low also helps him keep the shot less predictable. If a player reaches too far, it often gives away what they are going to do.
Why It Matters
Though James Ignatowich admits he is “a little too scared to pull this one out” in tournaments, he says it’s a helpful tool for practice. It teaches spin control, ball timing, and court placement. Players looking to add variety to their game could use this shot to surprise opponents or defend under pressure.
As more players explore advanced backhand techniques, this kind of lob could become more common in high-level matches. Learning it early could give players a competitive edge.
News in Brief: James Ignatowich’s Backhand Lob Technique
James Ignatowich explains how to hit a two-handed backhand lob with topspin after the ball bounces. He recommends hitting it low and cross-court for better control. Though mainly used in practice, this shot can give players an edge with added spin, smart angles, and better court coverage.
ALSO READ: How “Seeing the Court” Transforms Pickleball Strategy—and Gives Players a Winning Edge