James Ignatowich Pickleball Pro Tips: Professional pickleball player James Ignatowich has shared five expert tips to help players reach a 5.0 rating, and they’re all about smart, efficient play—not hitting harder. He discussed these ideas on The Pickleball Clinic, offering practical advice for players who want to improve their game quickly.
These strategies, including one bonus tip from the DUPR team, focus on ball control, smart positioning, and quick decision-making. Each one is designed to help players make fewer mistakes and win more points.
Reset to the Middle from the Transition Zone
When a player is on defense or caught between the baseline and kitchen, resetting to the middle of the court is a smart move. This area has the lowest part of the net and fewer angles for opponents to use. It helps slow the game down and gives time to recover.
James Ignatowich recommends using a soft, steady paddle grip, staying low, and aiming for the kitchen with a gentle arc.
Be Aggressive on the Right Side
Players on the right side of the court often play too safe. But at the pro level, they watch for chances to attack. Ignatowich says right-side players should look for high balls or weak dinks and step into the court to finish points confidently.
He explains, “Aggression doesn’t mean recklessness—it means recognizing the opportunity and owning it.”
Keep Volleys Low and Out Front
One skill that separates advanced players is their volley technique. Making contact out in front and keeping the shot low makes it harder for opponents to attack. The goal is to aim at their feet and avoid lifting the ball too high.
A helpful reminder: “The less swing the better. Keep it short and sweet.”
Hold Dinks Longer to Trick Opponents
A short pause before hitting a dink shot can confuse opponents and hide your intentions. That split-second delay can look like a power shot, but it ends up being a soft dink instead.
This tactic works at all levels and gives players more control over how opponents react.
Master the Two-Handed Backhand Dink
Learning this advanced shot gives players more power and control at the kitchen line. It also adds deception, making it harder for opponents to guess your next move. This is a key skill that many 5.0 players use regularly.
Bonus Tip: Let the Non-Dominant Hand Lead
For the two-handed backhand dink, it’s the non-dominant hand that does most of the work. Right-handed players rely on their left hand for control, spin, and paddle angle. Lefties do the same with their right hand.
This often-overlooked detail can give players more consistency and sharper shots.
What This Means for Aspiring 5.0 Players
These pro-level tips from James Ignatowich and the DUPR team show that success in pickleball comes from strategy, not just speed or strength. With steady practice and focus on these smart plays, amateur players can close the gap and reach the 5.0 level.
News in Brief: James Ignatowich Pickleball Pro Tips
James Ignatowich shared five essential tips to help pickleball players reach the 5.0 level, focusing on smarter, more controlled play. From resetting to the middle to mastering two-handed backhand dinks, these insights—plus a bonus from the DUPR team—can elevate any player’s game with the right focus and effort.
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