Morgan Evans’ Pickleball Ready Position: Morgan Evans, a pickleball expert, says the right ready position is key to winning points. Players should focus on paddle height relative to the net rather than their body. Correct positioning improves speed, control, and consistency in fast exchanges at the kitchen, helping players succeed in tight hands battles.
Keep the Paddle at the Right Height
The most important factor is paddle height. For mid-level players like Donna from New Jersey, Evans suggests keeping the paddle a few inches below the net.
“This provides optimal two-way coverage on fast attacks that can often be dipping below the height of the net, and also a few inches above the net,” Morgan Evans explained.
Keeping the paddle above the net may seem easier, but it can slow reactions. A paddle falling from above the net moves faster due to gravity, making it harder to control and brace properly. Staying slightly below the net allows players to lift or punch the ball with steadier, stronger motions.
Adjusting to Opponents
Elite players sometimes hold their paddle above the net to apply pressure, but most players benefit from an adaptive paddle height. Evans says positioning should depend on the opponent’s style:
Lower paddle: Helps against topspin or quick dinks.
Higher paddle: Works against flat, hard hits from mid-court or baseline.
Dropping paddle after a popped-up shot: Prepares for attacks below net height.
Keeping paddle higher after an opponent’s pop-up: Maintains control and upper hand.
Evans advises players to learn from every exchange and adapt their paddle height to the situation. “A good pilot is compelled to evaluate what’s happened, so he can apply what he’s learned,” Morgan Evans joked, referencing Top Gun.
Focus on Efficiency and Control
The ready position affects how quickly players can respond. Minimizing swing length and maintaining proper paddle height helps players counter fast shots with less effort. Correct positioning reduces errors and gives players a better chance to win rallies at all levels.
By understanding and practicing proper ready positions, players can improve reaction times, reduce mistakes, and gain an advantage in fast exchanges at the kitchen.
News in Brief: Morgan Evans’ Pickleball Ready Position
Morgan Evans recommends keeping the pickleball paddle slightly below the net for faster, more controlled responses. Paddle height should adapt to opponents’ shots, including topspin, hard flat hits, or popped-up balls. Proper positioning improves efficiency, helps win points, and allows players to react quickly in fast exchanges.
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