How to Handle High Shots Like a Pro: Professional pickleball player James Ignatowich recently posted a helpful video on Instagram, offering a key defensive tip for players in the transition zone of the court. Ignatowich advises that when your opponents are in the kitchen and hitting the ball high, you should lower your paddle to better defend against their shots.
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Paddle Position is Key
In the video, Ignatowich explains that the higher your opponents hit the ball, the lower your paddle should be. If your opponents are hitting an overhead shot from a high position, your paddle should be almost on the ground to properly counter it. This pickleball technique ensures that you can handle the ball more efficiently and keep your defense strong, even when the ball is coming at you with force.
Adjusting as You Move Deeper on the Court
Ignatowich also emphasizes that your paddle position should drop further as you move closer to the baseline. The deeper you are in the court, the lower your paddle needs to be to best handle the shots coming at you. This strategy helps players stay prepared for any ball placement, making it easier to return shots effectively.
Why This Tip is Crucial for Defensive Success
By lowering the paddle when your opponents hit high balls, players can more effectively control the ball’s trajectory and defend against difficult shots. Ignatowich’s advice is especially useful for players in the transition zone, where quick adjustments are key to maintaining a strong defense.
This tip can significantly improve a player’s ability to return overheads and high shots, offering a more strategic approach to handling tough plays near the kitchen.
News in Brief: How to Handle High Shots Like a Pro
Professional pickleball player James Ignatowich shared a video on Instagram offering key defensive pickleball tips for players in the transition zone. He advises lowering the paddle when defending against high shots, especially overheads, to better handle the ball and maintain defense. As players move closer to the baseline, their paddle should drop further for optimal defense. This tip is crucial for returning tough shots and improving defense, particularly in the transition zone, where quick adjustments are essential.
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