One of the most crucial shots in pickleball is the third shot, and while the third shot drop is often the go-to for many players, the third shot drive can provide strategic advantages in certain scenarios.
In a new Selkirk Pickleball TV episode, pickleball professional Catherine Parenteau shares examples of when you should consider using a third shot drive instead of a third shot drop.
When to use the pickleball third shot drive
There are a number of factors to consider when selecting your third shot. Consider a third shot drive in these scenarios:
- You are playing in a windy environment. If you are playing in a high-wind environment, you might as well hit a third shot drive. It can be very difficult to control third shot drops in the wind because they often move slower and higher in the air.
- If your opponent has weaker volleys. If your opponents prefer to dink everything, test their skills with a drive. Odds are, you’ll catch them off guard, which will set you up for a win.
- If your opponent is slow to the kitchen line. You want to keep your opponents back off the kitchen line. If you notice your opponent is slow to move to the kitchen after your serve, drive the ball fast toward their feet. This will force them to stay back to return the ball.
- Your opponent hit a high return. If your opponent returns the ball closer to the net and it bounces high, it’s time to hit a drive. Doing so will catch your opponents off guard, allowing you time to move toward the kitchen.
- If you’re nervous or tight. It can be hard to execute a third shot drop when you’re nervous because you often squeeze your paddle too tight. Drive the ball until you feel better and then resume your shot selection as normal.
