Introduction
Pickleball doubles is a game of positioning, communication, and strategic shot selection. This guide breaks down the fundamental strategies you need to dominate on the court.
Serving
Third Shot Strategy
The third shot is crucial in doubles. Here are the two main approaches:
Drop Shot
- Use when you want to control the rally and move up to the kitchen
- If the drop lands soft, both partners move up to the kitchen line
- If the drop is too high, stay back and look for opportunities to advance
Drive Shot
- More aggressive approach with higher risk
- Ideal target is the receiving opponent working their way up
- Can catch opponents in mid-court before they're fully positioned
- Requires good pace and depth to avoid easy poaches
Receiving
Two Roles on the Receiving Side
Receiver (Baseline)
- Returns serve from the baseline
- Aim for depth on the return, preferably to the server
- This keeps the serving team back and open for pop-ups
Non-Receiver (Kitchen Line)
- Starts at the kitchen line
- Priority: Look to poach and smash if possible
- Watch for line drives and aggressive shots
- Avoid over-committing to the middle (opens you up for line drives)
- Be ready to transition based on the serving team's third shot
Dinking with a Purpose
Dinking is the foundation of modern pickleball. The ultimate goal is to force your opponents to pop the ball up.
Key Principles
- Keep the Ball Low - Low dinks are hard to attack aggressively
- Move Opponents Around - Throw them off balance and positioning
- Dink Out of the Air - When possible, hit dinks on the fly to disrupt their timing
- Balance Footwork and Reach
- Use footwork when the ball is far away
- Just reach when the ball is closer (saves time and keeps you balanced)
- Use Quick Lobs Strategically - Great for both defense and offense
- Keep It Simple Against Aggressive Dinks - Don't try to do too much
- Be Patient - Wait for the pop-up opportunity
Communication
- Constantly communicate with your partner
- Call "mine" or "yours" to avoid confusion
- Discuss strategy between points
- Give encouragement and stay positive
Advanced Tips
- Watch your opponent's feet and shoulder rotation for shot prediction
- Position yourself to cover your court half effectively
- Anticipate the third shot and adjust your position accordingly
- Work on soft hands for consistent dinking
- Practice kitchen line transitions
Pickle on, y'all! 🏓 🤙
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