A very underrated shot in pickleball is the 3rd shot drop.
Image via @tanner.pickleball
"I like to have an 'attack first' mentality and there's no better way than setting the tone of the point with a sharp drop." – Tanner Tomassi
It’s interesting because most players use it just as a means of approaching the kitchen line. I like to take a different approach, and use it to get on the offensive before my opponents can.
I do this by hitting an aggressive top spin drop aimed toward my opponents backhand. If I can get it to land in the kitchen, it often gives my opponents trouble and will lead to a popped up fourth ball.
Learning and understanding this concept will take your game to the next level. I like to have the “attack first” mentality and there’s no better way than setting the tone of the point with a sharp drop.
Keys To Hitting An Aggressive Drop:
This shot may look fancy, but it’s not. It’s almost like a half drive half drop landing in the kitchen. It’s very important you have a dropped paddle head and strike the ball low to high, really utilizing your legs to get underneath of it. A common mistake is using your wrist to generate spin. You want to use your shoulder and paddle angle to make for the most consistent shot.
Things to Remember:
Tip #1 - Have a dropped paddle head
Tip #2 - Strike the ball low to high
Tip #3 - Utilize your legs to get underneath the ball
Tip #4 - Use your shoulder and paddle angle to make for a more consistent shot
Remember, your goal isn’t to hit a winner on the drop, the goal is to set up an easy next shot for your partner to poach.
Commentaires