Every pickleball match begins with a serve and a (hopefully) deep return to the baseline. Each team is trying to take control of the net, so what comes after the return of serve is critical? A common shot, executed by the serving team, is known as the pickleball third shot drop.
It can have the most significant impact on the momentum of the point. It’s the foundation to extending the point and evening the playing field. Now, this shot can be anything – a lob, a drive, a smash, but what we’re going to go over is the third shot drop shot.
The drop shot can be one of the most challenging shots to pull off consistently since the return of serve usually comes in quickly and is placed deep in the court. Now, keep in mind when you’re practicing this shot that even the most experience pickleball players find it to be challenging.
Here are some simple steps to help you execute a perfect third shot drop:
- Stay low, bend your knees and get under the ball.
- Keep your swing path moving low to high. Coaches will tell you to push through “2-4 balls” to ensure your follow-through.
- Shorten your backswing – a big backswing will mess with your timing.
- Give yourself a good margin of error by aiming two to four inches over the top of the net.
- Step into the ball, let your body weight and momentum carry you through the shot.
To know that you’ve hit a good third shot drop, one thing to look for is to watch the ball’s trajectory. It’ll move in an arching shape, and the peak of the arch will be on your side of the net and beginning to drop as it crosses over the net into your opponent’s kitchen.
Remember, you have more options than just the third shot drop. Don’t think you’re limited to it. So, here are a few situations in which NOT to use the third shot drop:
- When the return of serve lands short, counter with an offensive shot down the middle.
- When your opponent stays back. Giving them a short ball will invite them to the net, and you want to keep them at baseline. It’s much easier to win points when your opponents are kept back.
- When your ability to hit a drop shot is compromised. If the return of serve throws you off balance, this is not the time to go for a drop shot. Hit a counter-attacking shot right back at the returner (even better, if you aim it at their feet), who will be transitioning to the net.
Resetting in Pickleball
A strategy mistake that some pickleball beginners make is charging the net after a poorly executed third shot drop. What does a poorly executed third shot drop look like? It’s too high and your opponents can swing freely, driving a fourth shot to your feet with pace. Or, the third shot drop bounces high after landing in the kitchen. When that happens, it’s best to split step, set your feet and prepare for a return of shot with pace.
When a third shot drop is not ideal, play for your fifth or seventh shot to reset the point and slow down the game.
For continuous improvement of your pickleball game, enjoy some videos and articles on our Pickleball 3.5 page.