Outsmart Pickleball Bangers: Professional pickleball coach BK Pickleball has shared an expert guide to help players handle hard-hitting opponents, known as “bangers.” In this video tutorial, viewers learn key techniques to defend and counter fast drives using a move called the swing volley.
A banger in pickleball is a player who hits the ball hard and fast, especially from the baseline. This aggressive style can put pressure on opponents, particularly when they are at the kitchen line with little time to react.
Stay Calm and Prepare Early
BK Pickleball explained that the first step to defending against a banger is to stay calm. “The pickle ball is never as fast as it seems, and you always have more time than you think.”
Once calm, the next step is to prepare for either a forehand or backhand. Players should keep their paddle up high and quickly decide which side to hit based on the ball’s direction.
Use the Swing Volley
Instead of blocking the shot, BK Pickleball advises players to attack the ball with a swing volley. “You’re actually going to try to hit a swing volley where you’re trying to put this ball right back at your opponent’s feet.”
Blocking alone can result in a pop-up, allowing the opponent’s partner to finish the point with a “shake and bake.” A swing volley, done correctly, prevents this.
Set Up and Swing Through
Positioning and paddle control are key. Players must keep their paddle in front of the body and avoid pulling it back. Timing is essential.
“Don’t let that paddle get behind your body on the back swing. You don’t want to pull your paddle from out here and then try to get big on this shot,” BK Pickleball said.
Instead, players should keep their paddle out in front and swing through the ball. “If I pull my paddle too far back, I’m going to lose a lot of the timing.”
Train with a Drill
BK Pickleball recommends a training drill where one player stands at the kitchen line and the partner hits drives from the transition zone. The goal is to work on timing and direction.
“I’m staying real low. Paddle out in front. It never goes outside the frame of my body. Stays nice and tight. And I’m really swinging through these shots.”
The drill helps improve accuracy and confidence. Players are encouraged to hit crosscourt to reduce mistakes.
Gain the Advantage
By mastering the swing volley, players can push opponents back and control the game. “If you can keep your opponent deep, now they don’t have the opportunity of one, shaking and baking the shot, and two, it’s going to give you the offensive position.”
BK Pickleball closed the lesson by urging players to practice and stay aggressive. “Hopefully, you learned a little something from this video. I know a lot of people struggle against bangers in pickle ball. So, this video should hopefully help you deal with bangers and now go on the offense yourself.”
News in Brief: Outsmart Pickleball Bangers
Coach BK Pickleball teaches players how to handle power hitters by using the swing volley. The move helps defend against fast shots and puts players on the offense. Key tips include staying calm, deciding early, and swinging with control. A simple drill can improve timing and boost confidence during fast-paced play.
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