8 Pickleball Strategies to Win More Matches: Pickleball is rapidly growing in popularity, and pickleball players of all skill levels are eager to enhance their game. If you’re ready to elevate your skills, Barrett and Danea Bass have shared expert strategies that can take you from a beginner to an advanced player. These tips cover everything from serving to dinking, movement around the court, and advanced tactics used by top players.
Master the Pickleball Serve with Precision and Placement
The first step in improving your pickleball game starts with the pickleball serve. According to Barrett and Danea Bass, mastering both depth and placement is essential. Depth is key for creating a more difficult return for your opponent, as a higher ball trajectory ensures a difficult bounce for the returner. Placement also plays a crucial role, with the Basses recommending targeting your opponent’s non-paddle side or forcing them to make tough decisions by serving near their inside foot.
Nail the Return of Serve and Get to the Kitchen
The return of serve is another important strategy for players looking to level up. The Basses emphasize the importance of returning the serve deep, forcing the serving team to work hard on their third shot. Additionally, they suggest always moving forward toward the kitchen line after the return. Being the returning team gives you the advantage of reaching the kitchen line first, a key position in pickleball.
Know When to Drive or Drop the Ball
An essential decision that separates intermediate players from advanced ones is knowing when to drive or drop the ball. The Basses explain that advanced players don’t simply hit drop shots or drives; they use a combination of both to advance toward the kitchen. A 60% drive can force an easy response from the opponent, allowing you to set up your next move. By understanding when to drive or drop, players can maintain control of the court and get to the kitchen line with consistency.
Keeping Your Opponents Back
One strategy advanced players use is keeping their opponents at bay, preventing them from reaching the kitchen line. To do this, it’s essential to attack balls that come at your opponent’s feet or force them out of position. The Basses recommend attacking balls that are above net height, but also recognizing when it’s time to reset and play defensively, especially when your opponent hits a great shot.
Dinking for Position and Pressure
Dinking is an art form that requires strategy, not just finesse. The Basses stress the importance of moving the ball around to create pressure on your opponents. Advanced players understand that hitting the same spot repeatedly is not ideal, and they target weaknesses, such as an opponent’s backhand. Taking balls out of the air is another essential tip, as it prevents you from getting pushed back off the line and keeps you in a better position for attacking.
Partner Movement and Court Awareness
When playing doubles, communication and movement with your partner are crucial. Rather than staying rigidly on your own side, the Basses suggest working as a team to cover the middle and adjust according to where the ball is. This synchronized movement allows you to create a stronger defense and offense, closing down areas on the court where your opponents might target.
Attacking the Right Balls and Creating Chaos
Finally, advanced players know which balls to attack and when to play it safe. The Basses recommend attacking balls above the waist, particularly those with less spin, as they are easier to control. Players should also be aware of where the ball lands, as deeper balls give you more room to work with and set up your shots. A creative way to disrupt your opponents’ flow is by lobbing the ball unexpectedly, forcing them to retreat and regroup.
Take Your Game to the Next Level
By incorporating these strategies into your pickleball play, you’ll be on your way to becoming a more advanced player. Whether you’re aiming to improve your serve, dinking, or overall court awareness, the Basses’ tips can help you play smarter and more strategically. For even more expert advice, check out their full video and see how these strategies can transform your game.
News in Brief: 8 Pickleball Strategies to Win More Matches
Barrett and Danea Bass offer expert pickleball strategies to elevate your game, covering serve mastery, return tactics, and advanced pickleball skills. They stress the importance of precision, moving toward the kitchen, and combining drives and drops. Partner communication, dinking for pressure, and knowing when to attack are key for advancing to an elite level.
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