Ben Johns | How to Hit a Backhand Roll

 

Mastering the Backhand Roll Shot in Pickleball

A Guide by Pro Player Ben Johns

Introduction

The backhand roll shot is an advanced offensive shot in pickleball that allows you to attack the ball from below net level. Executed properly, it can be a devastating weapon to pull your opponents out of position. However, it requires perfect timing and technique to perform correctly. In this comprehensive guide, pro player Ben Johns breaks down exactly how to master the backhand roll.

1) 0:50 - The Set-up

The backhand roll only works off a ball taken out of the air, never off a bounce. Look for cross-court backhand dink shots from your opponent that you can intercept. Make sure the ball is far enough from the net that you can make clean contact in the air. The purpose of the roll is to attack from below net level, generally making contact between your waist and head.

2) 1:45 - Backhand Slices

When dinking, hitting backhand slices generates the most spin. This benefits the roll shot - the more backspin on the setup shot you receive, the more topspin you can apply on your roll attack. Actively dinking and volleying close to the net creates more opportunities to roll.

3) 2:00 - Technique

Proper technique is vital to executing the backhand roll:

• Bend knees deeply to enable the paddle to sweep upward powerfully from low to high
• Paddle starts near ground level and finishes around head height
• Wrist rolls forward but don't overly flick - keep paddle face relatively flat
• Drive paddle upwards at approx 45 degrees forward/upward
• Adjust angle slightly based on contact point height
• Generate power from legs and core rotation rather than arm/wrist

Conclusion

While difficult to master, adding the backhand roll to your repertoire can make you dangerous at the net. Follow Ben's tips above on setup, spin awareness, and clean technique - with some practice this specialty shot can soon be a go-to weapon!

YouTube Time Code List

0:00 Introduction Ben Johns 0:50 The Set-up 1) Ball is always out of the air 2) You can attack below the level of the net 3) Placement is important 1:45 Backhand Slices - The more back spin you get, the more top spin you can apply out of the air 2:00 Technique