Third Shot Drop, You Must Have This Shot To Advance
The third shot drop (or drop shot) is a critical shot in pickleball that can make or break a game. As the serving team, it’s essential to master this shot to gain an advantage over the opposing team.
In doubles play, the third shot is the most important shot of each rally for the serving team. A good third shot eliminates or partially eliminates the receiving team’s positional advantage, while a bad one destroys the serving team’s chances to score a point.
There is simply no way you can play at more advanced levels without learning this shot, period. You have to be able to consistently return a shot from anywhere on the court and at any pace into the kitchen.
If your drop shot is well-developed, you are much more likely to survive the rally and score more points. This is because the serving team is always the one that initiates the third shot drop.
The third shot drop is a specific shot that is used to land the ball in the kitchen or the non-volley zone. It makes it difficult for the opposing team to return the ball and take control of the net. It requires careful decision-making, strategic considerations, and an understanding of the best shots for different situations.
We will go through why the third shot is crucial in pickleball and how you can master this shot to improve your game.
I will discuss the different types of drop shots, when to use them, and how to execute them effectively. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the importance of the third shot drop can take your game to the next level.
Understanding the Third Shot Drop
As a player, I know that the third shot drop is an absolutely crucial shot in the game. You can only get so far competitively without this shot. It is a strategic shot that can help you gain an advantage over your opponents. In this section, I will explain the basics of pickleball and why the third shot drop is so important.
Basics of Pickleball
For those who are new to pickleball, it is a racquet sport that is played on a court similar to a tennis court. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The court is divided into two halves by a net, and the game can be played in singles or doubles.
The objective of the game is to hit the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court in a way that they cannot return it. Points are scored when the opponent fails to return the ball or hits it out of bounds.
Third Shot Drop
The third shot drop is a shot that is used by the serving team after the return of serve. It is a soft shot that you aim to land in the opponent’s kitchen, which is the area close to the net.
The goal of the third shot is to give the serving team time to move up to the net and gain an advantage.
The third shot drop is important because it neutralizes the receiving team’s positional advantage. It gives the serving team a chance to move up to the net and take control of the point.
Why? Because, like a dink, when the ball lands in the kitchen, you have to let it bounce, so the receiving team is forced to play defensively, trying not to hit a pop-up.
If the third shot drop is executed well, it can also force the opponent to hit a defensive shot, which can give the serving team an opportunity to attack.
Importance of Third Shot Drop
I know all too well the importance of mastering the third shot drop. This shot is crucial in maintaining control and advantage in the game. Regardless if you are playing rec play, leagues, or tournaments, you will play against players that excel at this, and it is very hard to beat them without this shot.
You can watch any pro tournament or level 4+ league play, and you will see this shot executed time and time again. Even defensively when teams are trying to return slammed lobs.
The USA Pickleball Association, the governing body of pickleball, has defined what skills you have to demonstrate to be rated at each level. To be a 3.5+ player, you need this shot.
USAPA Rating Guide for 3.5 Level Player
Control and Advantage
The drop shot is a shot you perform at or near the baseline that lands softly in the opponent’s kitchen. This shot is designed to give you and your teammate time to get to the net and take control of the game.
After the return of the serve, the returning team has the advantage as both players will be right on top of the kitchen line. This shot can help you gain control of the game by giving you time to get to the net and take control of the kitchen.
Pace of the Game
Pickleball is a fast-paced game, and the third shot drop can help you control the pace of the game. By hitting a soft and accurate third shot, you can slow down the game and force your opponents to play at your pace. This can be extremely effective against opponents who like to play fast and aggressively (think Bangers).
Effective Strategy
The third shot drop is an effective strategy that can help you win games. By hitting a soft and accurate third shot, you can force your opponents to hit a defensive shot, which can give you an opportunity to take control of the game.
Additionally, the third shot can be used to set up other shots, such as a lob or a drive, which can be used to win points.
As you can see, the third shot drop is an essential shot in pickleball. It can help you gain control and advantage in the game, control the game’s pace, and be an effective strategy to win games.
Mastering the third shot drop can take your game to the next level and help you become a more competitive player.
Techniques for Successful Third Shot Drop
As I mentioned earlier, the third shot drop is a crucial shot in pickleball that can give you an advantage over your opponents. To master this shot, you need to have a good understanding of the different techniques involved. Here are some techniques that can help you execute a successful third shot drop.
The Soft Shot
The soft shot is a technique that involves hitting the ball with a gentle touch. This shot is usually used when you are trying to get the ball over the net and into the kitchen.
To execute a soft shot, you need to use your wrist and forearm to generate a gentle flick of the paddle. The key to this shot is to keep it low and slow so your opponents have a hard time returning it.
The Drop Shot
The drop shot is another technique that can help you execute a successful third shot drop. This shot involves hitting the ball with a slight arc so that it lands just over the net and drops quickly into the kitchen.
To execute a drop shot, you need to use your wrist and forearm to generate a gentle flick of the paddle. The key to this shot is to keep it low and hit it with just enough force to get it over the net.
The Dink
The dink shot is another technique that can help you execute a successful third shot drop. This shot involves hitting the ball with a gentle touch so that it lands just over the net and drops into the kitchen.
To execute a dink shot, you need to use your wrist and forearm to generate a gentle flick of the paddle. The key to this shot is to keep it low and hit it with just enough force to get it over the net.
Mastering this shot is essential if you want to perform consistently against good competition. By using the proper techniques, such as the soft shot, the drop shot, and the dink shot, you can execute a successful third shot drop and gain an advantage over your opponents.
Summary of Types of Drop Shots
| Type of Drop | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Soft drop | Easy to control, can be placed in difficult spots for the opponent to return. | Can be easily poached by the opponent. |
| Hard drop | More difficult for the opponent to return, can be used to force the opponent to hit a difficult shot. | More difficult to control, can go out of bounds. |
| Drop volley | Can be hit quickly and unexpectedly, can catch the opponent off guard. | Can be difficult to execute, requires good timing and touch. |
| Drop dink | Can be hit low and short, making it difficult for the opponent to return. | Can be easily poached by the opponent. |
| Drop shot | Can be hit from anywhere on the court, can be used to surprise the opponent. | Can be difficult to execute, requires good touch. |
The best type of drop shot to use will depend on the situation and the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. For example, if the opponent is a good volleyer, a soft drop may be the best option. If the opponent is a good dinker, a hard drop may be the better choice.
Role of Practice and Drills
As with any skill, practice, and drills are essential to improving the third shot drop in pickleball. Here are some tips on how to improve your swing and master the touch required for a successful third shot drop.
Improving the Swing
To improve your swing, it’s essential to focus on technique and consistency. One way to do this is by practicing your swing using a wall or a ball machine. This will help you develop muscle memory and improve your timing.
Another way to improve your swing is by practicing with a partner. Start by hitting the ball back and forth, focusing on your form and technique. Try incorporating the third shot drop into your practice routine as you become more comfortable.
Mastering the Touch
The touch required for a successful third shot drop is a combination of finesse and control. To master this, start by practicing your dinks. This will help you develop the touch required for a successful third shot drop.
Another way to master the touch is by practicing your drop shots. Start by hitting the ball softly, focusing on your form and technique. Try incorporating the third shot drop into your practice routine as you become more comfortable.
In addition to practicing your swings and mastering the touch, it’s also essential to practice your footwork. This will help you get into position quickly and effectively, allowing you to easily execute the third shot drop. There are great training aids that are great for helping you drill and train in these areas.
With consistent practice and drills, you can improve your third shot drop and take your pickleball game to the next level.
Third Shot Drop in Tournaments
In pickleball tournaments, the third shot drop is a crucial shot that can make or break a team’s chances of winning. As a player, I have seen firsthand how important it is to master this shot to succeed in tournaments.
You cannot play in tournaments competitively without this shot.
In this section, I will discuss the significance of the third shot drop in tournaments and its impact on serving and receiving teams.
Serving and Receiving Teams
In doubles play, the serving team has the advantage of starting the rally and controlling the pace of the game.
However, the receiving team has a positional advantage, as they can take control of the net and put pressure on the serving team. This is where the third shot drop comes into play.
A well-executed third shot drop can eliminate the receiving team’s positional advantage and give the serving team a chance to regain control of the net.
On the other hand, a poorly executed third shot can provide the receiving team an opportunity to attack and score a point.
Shot Selection in Doubles
Shot selection is a critical aspect of doubles play, and the third shot drop is no exception. As the serving team, it is important to assess the situation and determine whether a third shot drop is the best option.
Factors such as the score, the opponents’ strengths and weaknesses, and the court conditions should all be considered.
If the receiving team is positioned at the net, a third shot drop may be the best option to avoid a direct attack. However, if the receiving team is positioned at the baseline, a deep shot may be a better choice to keep them on their toes and prevent them from attacking.
The drop shot is a vital shot in pickleball tournaments, and mastering it can significantly improve a team’s chances of success. As a player, I always strive to improve my third shot drop and make smart shot selections in doubles play.
Third Shot Drop Vs Third Shot Drive
As a pickleball player, it is important to know when to use a Third Shot Drop and when to use a Third Shot Drive. Both shots have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to understand them in order to make the best decision on the court.
Power and Direction
The Third Shot Drop is a softer shot that is designed to land in the kitchen or the non-volley zone. It is typically hit with a backspin, which causes the ball to bounce low and slow, making it difficult for your opponent to attack. The Third Shot Drop is a great way to gain control of the point and set up your team for success.
On the other hand, the Third Shot Drive is a harder shot that is designed to be hit with power and speed. It is typically hit with topspin, which causes the ball to bounce high and fast, making it difficult for your opponent to return. The Third Shot Drive is a great way to put pressure on your opponent and gain control of the point.
Short Return Vs Long Return
When your opponent returns the ball short, meaning it lands close to the net, the Third Shot Drop is usually the better option. This is because the Third Shot Drop is designed to land in the kitchen, which is where you want to be in order to control the point.
If you hit a Third Shot Drive when your opponent returns the ball short, you risk hitting the ball out or hitting it too hard, which will give your opponent an opportunity to attack.
When your opponent returns the ball long, meaning it lands closer to the baseline, the Third Shot Drive is usually the better option.
This is because the Third Shot Drive is designed to be hit with power and speed, allowing you to put pressure on your opponent and gain control of the point. If you hit a Third Shot Drop when your opponent returns the ball long, you risk hitting the ball too short, which will give your opponent an opportunity to attack.
Both the Third Shot Drop and the Third Shot Drive are important shots to have in your arsenal. Knowing when to use each shot will help you to gain control of the point and to set up your team for success.
By understanding the power and direction of each shot and the difference between short and long returns, you can become a better pickleball player and win more games.
| Characteristic | Third Shot Drop | Third Shot Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To keep the ball in play and force the opponent to hit a difficult shot. | To control the point and put the opponent on the defensive. |
| Speed | Slow | Fast |
| Placement | Low and short | High and deep |
| Spin | Backspin | Topspin |
| Difficulty | Easier to execute | More difficult to execute |
| Best use | Against opponents who are good volleyers or who like to poach. | Against opponents who are not good volleyers or who are not comfortable hitting a drop shot. |
- The third shot drop is a soft, low shot that is hit with backspin. It is often used to keep the ball in play and force the opponent to hit a difficult shot. The third shot drop can be hit from anywhere on the court, but it is most effective when hit from the backcourt.
- The third shot drive is a hard, fast shot that is hit with topspin. It is often used to control the point and put the opponent on the defensive. The third shot drive is most effective when hit from the backcourt, but it can also be hit from the midcourt.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the third shot drop impact the pickleball strategy?
It is a crucial part of the pickleball strategy, as it allows players to gain control of the net and put pressure on their opponents. By hitting a soft, high-arching shot that lands in the opponent’s kitchen, players force their opponents to hit an upward shot, which can be easily volleyed by the player at the net. This puts the team in a better position to win the point.
What are some common mistakes when executing a third shot drop?
One common mistake when executing this shot is hitting the ball too hard. The drop shot should be a soft shot that lands in the opponent’s kitchen, allowing the player to move up to the net.
Another mistake is hitting the ball too low, which makes it easier for the opponent to hit a hard shot back.
How can a third shot drop improve your game?
It can significantly improve your game, as it allows you to gain control of the net and put pressure on your opponents. By mastering this shot, you can become a more well-rounded player and increase your chances of winning points.
What are some drills to improve your third shot drop?
One drill is to practice hitting the ball softly and with a high arch, aiming for the opponent’s kitchen.
Another drill is to practice hitting the ball with spin, which can make it more difficult for the opponent to return the shot. Finally, practicing your footwork and movement to the net can help you get into position to hit a successful third shot drop.
Why is the third shot drop so important?
The whole purpose of the third shot drop is to gain control of the net and put pressure on your opponents.
By hitting a soft, high-arching shot that lands in the opponent’s kitchen, you force your opponent to hit an upward shot, which can be easily volleyed by the player at the net. This puts the team in a better position to win the point.
How does the third shot drop differ from other types of shots in pickleball?
The third shot drop differs from other types of shots in pickleball in that it is a soft, high-arching shot designed to land in the opponent’s kitchen.
Other shots, such as groundstrokes and volleys, are typically hit with more pace and are aimed at different parts of the court. The third shot drop is a unique shot that requires a specific technique and strategy.
What are the best pickleball paddles for Seniors?
There are several paddles that are great choices for Seniors. Learn More
Are there different paddles for women pickleball players?
No. There aren’t unique pickleball paddles for women players. However, there are features and specs that are key when choosing a paddle if you are a woman looking for a great paddle. Learn More.
