Michael Lloyd Pickleball Net Strategies: Michael Lloyd, a professional pickleball player and coach, shared nine key strategies to win hands battles, crucial exchanges at the net that decide points in competitive pickleball. Ranked in the top 10 for men’s singles since 2023, Lloyd has over 135 Pro Tour wins and emphasizes patience and control.
Hands battles are often lost because players react late, swing too big, or focus on power instead of precision. Lloyd explained that mastering quick reactions, proper paddle positioning, and targeted shots can help players control points, momentum, and even opponents’ behavior during matches.
Get Your Paddle Ready Early
Lloyd stressed the importance of having the paddle up and ready at chest height before a ball reaches the net. “Think the paddle as a shield and not as a sword. Watch Ben Johns. His paddle barely moves from his ready position until he attacks.” Keeping hands high helps players hit downward, forcing opponents to lift the ball and giving easy putaways.
Shorten and Strengthen Your Swing
Instead of big swings, Lloyd recommends compact punches for volleys. Practicing rapid-fire volleys with minimal back swing improves control and reduces errors. “I can’t stress enough how important it is just to keep everything out in front.”
Target Weakness, Not Just Speed
Placement matters more than power. Hitting an opponent’s paddle side hip, elbow, or shoulder creates challenges in deciding between backhand and forehand. Lloyd drills this by alternating targets during practice. “My personal favorite spot to aim is always the person’s paddle side hip.”
Spot the Speed-Up Before It Happens
Recognizing when an opponent will increase pace is critical. Speed-ups often occur on high balls or during pattern breaks. Lloyd advises tracking opponents’ tendencies and preparing in advance. He noted, “One of the players that comes to mind that likes to speed up a lot of balls is Georgia Johnson.”
Master the Triangle Effect and Anticipation
Understanding where the ball will go after a speed-up allows for smart counters. Lloyd explained the triangle effect: “If you speed up across the person’s body, it comes straight back to your opposite side.” Practicing with a wall or partner helps players predict shots instead of reacting blindly.
Learn to Let It Fly
Not every ball needs a return. Balls above shoulder height or on a rising trajectory often go out. Lloyd explained, “Winning a point by not touching the ball is the simplest formula of all.” Helping your partner identify these balls prevents unnecessary mistakes.
Learn the Reset Button
When behind in a rally, players can slow the point with soft resets into the kitchen zone. Lloyd drills alternating fast volleys and gentle resets. “Whenever he’s behind in a rally or at a disadvantage, he always takes the time to reset and start the point over,” referring to Colin Johns.
Eyes First, Hands Second
Tracking the ball carefully improves reaction. Players should keep feet shoulder-width apart, avoid big movements, and track contact points. Lloyd practices this by starting rallies closer to the kitchen and gradually moving back to build quick reflexes.
Drill Real Life Scenarios
Practicing live drills that simulate matches helps integrate all strategies. Start rallies at the kitchen line and allow speed-ups, hands battles, and resets. Lloyd said, “Collaborative feed one dink. And now the point is live.” Walls can substitute for partners, as shown by Christian Alstrom’s training success.
Mastering hands battles lets players control points, increase accuracy, and gain an edge over opponents. Following these nine steps can transform how players perform during fast-paced net exchanges.
News in Brief: Michael Lloyd Pickleball Net Strategies
Michael Lloyd, top-10 men’s singles pickleball player, shared nine key strategies to win hands battles. Focusing on paddle readiness, compact swings, targeted placement, anticipation, resets, and real-match drills can improve control and scoring. Using these techniques builds momentum and confidence, even against fast and skilled opponents.
ALSO READ: Outsmart Hard Hitters: Top Pickleball Tactics to Dominate Bangers and Win More Matches