Pickleball Doubles Strategy Secrets: Top pickleball players use strategies that give them an edge on the court. These include smart partner positioning, bait-and-poach attacks, reading the third shot, and using early preparation to control shot direction. Beginners and intermediate players can use these techniques to improve doubles strategy and consistency.
Shrink the Court with Smart Positioning
One key strategy is moving to cover high-percentage shots after hitting the ball. This forces opponents to make difficult shots or risk mistakes. As explained, “The easiest shot for them to make is either going to be right in front of him or to the middle of the court. The hardest shot for him to make in that position is going to be all the way on this side.”
Advanced players can use this to bait opponents. By anticipating the opponent’s return, they can jump in and counter effectively.
Mastering the Third Shot
Knowing whether to drive or drop the third shot separates good players from great players. Key factors are pace and placement: deep balls to the forehand often call for drives, while backhand shots may require controlled drops. Timing is also critical; hitting the ball at its apex allows for cleaner, more accurate shots.
Create Deception with Similar Preparation
Pros disguise their intentions by using the same preparation for different shots. “If you can get to the place where your drop has a similar preparation to your drive, you’re creating a ton of deception with your opponents because they don’t really know if you’re going to hit a drop or a drive.”
This also applies at the kitchen line with dinks and speed-ups, making it harder for opponents to predict moves.
Hold the Ball with Early Preparation
Holding the ball on the paddle lets players change shot direction at the last moment. Understanding ball height—short hop, apex, or descent—helps control the ball. Defensive short hops are harder to hold, while descending balls allow players to attack unpredictably.
News in Brief: Pickleball Doubles Strategy Secrets
Top pickleball players use four main strategies: positioning to cover easy shots, bait-and-poach attacks, reading third shots, and holding the ball with early preparation. These techniques, explained in simple terms, help beginners and intermediate players improve doubles strategy, shot consistency, and court control.