Pickleball Banger Winning Strategies: Playing against a hard-hitting pickleball player—also known as a “banger”—can be stressful. But with the right strategies, you can take control of the game. This guide covers three powerful techniques to help you stay calm, take control, and win more points.
Block the Ball When the Pace Is Too Fast
One of the smartest ways to respond to a fast pickleball shot is to block it. This works best when the ball is moving quickly or dipping below the net level. Trying to hit back with power in those moments often leads to errors.
To block the ball well:
Use a light grip on the paddle (level 2–3 out of 10).
Slightly open your paddle face toward the sky to soften the return.
Stay low and relaxed, letting the ball bounce off your paddle naturally.
Apply pressure with the bottom fingers while keeping the top fingers loose.
This technique helps absorb the speed and gives you more control over where the ball goes. Blocking helps neutralize hard hitters who want to overpower you.
Counterattack the Right Balls
Not all fast balls need to be blocked. If the ball is coming at you higher and you’re prepared, you can go on the offensive with a counterattack.
To do this effectively:
Keep your paddle in front—no big backswing.
Use a short, quick motion to return the ball with pace.
Contact the ball early and in front of your body.
Rotate your body instead of taking a long swing to add power.
Stay relaxed to improve timing and hit the sweet spot.
Counterattacks surprise bangers and turn defense into offense quickly.
Let Out Balls Go
Sometimes the smartest move is doing nothing at all. Bangers often hit hard—but not always accurately. Learning to let out balls go can win you easy points.
To read the shot:
Watch your opponent’s backswing: If they’re near the net and swinging big, it’s likely going out.
Check their contact point: Shots hit low and hard usually sail out.
Look at their balance: If they’re off-balance or running, the shot may lack control.
Letting high, fast balls go out is an underrated way to beat bangers who rely on power over precision.
Practice with Drills
Double Tap Blocking Drill:
Stand at the kitchen line with a partner. Catch the ball on your paddle, tap it gently, and volley it back. This helps develop a soft touch, light grip, and better blocking control.
Targeted Speed-Up Drill:
Work with a partner who speeds up shots to your backhand during a rally. You’ll know where the ball is going ahead of time, so you can focus on your counter technique—short swing, early contact, and relaxed motion.
These strategies—blocking, counterattacking, and letting out balls go—will help you beat the banger by staying calm, staying in control, and choosing the right shot at the right time. With practice, these skills can turn a frustrating match into one you dominate.
News in Brief: Pickleball Banger Winning Strategies
To beat a pickleball banger, focus on three strategies: block low or fast shots with a soft grip, counterattack high balls with short swings and body rotation, and let out balls go by reading your opponent’s swing, contact point, and balance. Practice drills improve paddle control and confidence.
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