Drops & Drives Masterclass: Secrets of the Pros | The Pickleball Breakdown

 

Mastering the Third and Fifth Shot in Pickleball
Essential Strategies for Improving Your Game

In this comprehensive guide, Jill Braverman and Scott Crandell, two of pickleball's top players and coaches, break down the crucial third and fifth shots in pickleball. These shots are pivotal in gaining control of the point and can make the difference between winning and losing. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, understanding and mastering these shots will significantly elevate your game.

1. Different types of thirds (1:15)

• Understand the three main types of third shots: drop, drive, and lob
• Learn about the hybrid "drip" shot, a combination of drive and drop
• Consider the effectiveness of each shot based on the situation and your skill level

The third shot in pickleball is crucial for transitioning from the baseline to the kitchen. Each type of shot has its advantages and challenges. The drop shot allows for a controlled approach to the net, while the drive can put pressure on opponents. The lob, though less common, can be an effective surprise tactic. The hybrid "drip" shot combines the best of both drive and drop, offering a versatile option for players.

2. The Drip/Hybrid 3rd (4:50)

• Understand the concept of the "drip" shot
• Learn how to execute the shot with proper technique
• Practice adjusting the pace and height of the shot

The "drip" shot is a powerful tool in a player's arsenal. It combines the pace of a drive with the control of a drop shot. To execute this shot effectively, focus on using your drive technique but at 50-60% of the usual pace. Control the height over the net and aim for the apex of the ball to be on your side of the court. This shot can be particularly effective against aggressive opponents.

3. How many shots should it take to get to the kitchen? (9:20)

• Recognize that reaching the kitchen may take multiple shots
• Understand the concept of the third, fifth, and seventh shots
• Practice patience and shot selection during the approach

Contrary to popular belief, reaching the kitchen often requires more than just the third shot. Players should be prepared for a series of shots - the third, fifth, and potentially seventh - to successfully transition to the kitchen. This approach requires patience and strategic shot selection. Focus on making each shot better than the last, gradually working your way to a dominant position at the kitchen line.

4. Court positioning 101 (11:30)

• Learn the importance of being slightly ahead of your partner
• Understand how to judge the quality of your partner's shots
• Practice adjusting your position based on shot quality

Proper court positioning is crucial for effective third and fifth shots. Aim to be slightly ahead of your partner, allowing you to evaluate the quality of their shot. Your positioning should be directly proportional to the quality of the shot - move in more aggressively on good shots, and hold your ground on weaker ones. This positioning strategy allows you to capitalize on opportunities and defend against potential counters.

5. "Cheat" in pickleball by doing this one thing… (14:40)

• Recognize the importance of communication with your partner
• Learn effective ways to communicate shot quality
• Practice clear and concise communication during play

Communication is key in pickleball, especially during the third and fifth shots. "Cheating" in this context means informing your partner about the quality of your shot. Use simple phrases like "that's good" or "watch" to indicate shot quality. This communication allows your partner to adjust their positioning and strategy accordingly, giving your team a significant advantage.

6. Blood in the water (15:30)

• Understand the concept of "blood in the water" in pickleball
• Learn to recognize opportunities to apply pressure
• Practice capitalizing on opponents' weak shots

When you see your third or fifth shot bounce, it's "blood in the water" - a prime opportunity to apply pressure. This moment indicates that your opponents are in a defensive position, and it's time for you and your partner to become aggressive. Be ready to move forward and take control of the point when you see this situation develop.

7. Turn your body to watch your partner's 3rds/5ths (17:18)

• Understand the importance of watching your partner's shots
• Learn the proper body positioning for optimal vision
• Practice turning and moving in sync with your partner's shots

To effectively judge and react to your partner's third and fifth shots, turn your body sideways to watch the ball come off their paddle. This positioning allows you to see the trajectory clearly and make quick decisions about your next move. As the ball reaches its peak, start uncoiling your body and moving forward. This technique improves your reaction time and court awareness.

8. Get low, get still (19:11)

• Learn the importance of getting low and stable when caught in a difficult position
• Understand how to maintain balance and readiness
• Practice quick, low movements and stability drills

When caught in a challenging position during the third or fifth shot exchange, the key is to get low and stay still. This stance provides stability and improves your chances of returning tough shots. Keep your paddle down and ready, as opponents are likely to hit hard and low in these situations. Resist the urge to move or back up, as this often leads to errors.

9. How to get GREAT at poaching (22:50)

• Understand the concept and timing of poaching
• Learn to communicate and plan poaching strategies with your partner
• Practice reading opponents' shots and court positioning for effective poaching

Poaching can be a game-changing skill when executed properly. To improve your poaching, develop specific patterns with your partner. For example, agree on certain shots or locations that will trigger a poach. Communicate these plans before the point begins. When poaching, commit fully to the move once you've decided to go. Practice reading opponents' shots and court positioning to increase your success rate.

10. Where should we aim our thirds? (25:44)

• Learn the optimal target areas for third shots
• Understand how to adjust targets based on opponents' strengths and weaknesses
• Practice hitting to specific areas consistently

When aiming third shots, consider both geometry and personnel. Geometrically, aim for the opponent's left foot (for right-handed players) or the sidelines. However, also consider which opponent you want to keep back or force into difficult shots. Discuss with your partner before the match to determine the best strategy based on your opponents' strengths and weaknesses.

11. The six questions you and your partner need to ask each other (27:55)

• Learn the six key questions to discuss with your partner before a match
• Understand how these questions inform your strategy
• Practice incorporating these discussions into your pre-match routine

Before stepping on the court, discuss these six key points with your partner:

1. Where are we returning the serve, and to whom?
   Understanding who to return the serve to is crucial. Many assume they should target the weaker player, but it’s often better to return to the stronger opponent, especially if keeping them at the baseline longer benefits your strategy.

2. Where are we placing our third shot?
   The third shot (usually a drop or drive) is a pivotal moment in the game, and deciding where it should go can influence whether you or your opponents gain control of the point.

3. Who are we focusing on attacking during transition?
   Identifying which opponent to pressure when moving from the baseline to the kitchen is essential. Attacking the weaker transition player can lead to more errors and easier points.

4. What’s our dink pattern?
   Establish a pattern for your dinks. This includes knowing where to place the ball to provoke a popup or force an error from your opponents.

5. Where are we attacking on our first and second shots?
   Coordinating your offensive plays ensures that both players know what combination of shots (first and second hits) they should aim for to increase their chances of winning the point.

6. Where are we positioned for counter-attacks?
   Being ready for your opponents' attacks requires planning your defensive stance. Discuss where you want to be standing to effectively counter their shots.

The most common mistake in pickleball is assuming the weaker player should always be targeted. Sometimes, it’s better to keep the stronger player back or exploit weaknesses in specific areas of the game, like their transition shots. This personnel-based approach ensures you optimize your strategy against each unique opponent.

12. Should you drop or drive? (30:30)

• Understand the pros and cons of drop shots vs. drives
• Learn to assess which shot is appropriate based on the situation
• Practice both shots to develop versatility

The choice between dropping and driving depends on various factors, including your skill level, the quality of the return, and your opponents' strengths. Generally, harder and lower returns are more suitable for drives, while softer, higher returns allow for drops. Develop both shots in your arsenal and learn to choose based on the situation. Having a reliable "go-to" shot for challenging days is crucial.

13. Know what you're good at (35:25)

• Understand the importance of playing to your strengths
• Learn to identify and develop your unique skills
• Practice incorporating your strengths into your game strategy

Knowing and playing to your strengths is crucial in pickleball. Whether you excel at drops, drives, or a unique style like Mari Humberg's slice, focus on what works best for you. Develop a consistent and effective approach that suits your skills and style. Remember, what works for one player may not work for another, so find and refine your personal strengths.

14. Where to aim when opponents are reversing the stack? (37:57)

• Understand the concept of stack reversal and its implications
• Learn strategic aiming options when opponents reverse their stack
• Practice identifying and exploiting openings created by stack reversal

When opponents reverse their stack, it often creates opportunities. While aiming at the player running in is common, consider hitting down the line, especially if the stationary player is overaggressive in covering the middle. This strategy can catch opponents off guard and exploit gaps in their positioning. Discuss these tactics with your partner and be prepared to execute them when the opportunity arises.

15. What's up next on TPB? (40:47)

• Preview of upcoming episodes
• Importance of continuous learning and improvement
• Encouragement to engage with the podcast and apply lessons learned

The podcast hints at future episodes covering the fourth shot and mental aspects of the game. This ongoing series provides valuable insights for players at all levels. Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions and practical tips to improve your pickleball game. (Check out the Pickleball Breakdown Playlist)

Guide Summary: This comprehensive guide to mastering the third and fifth shots in pickleball covers essential strategies, techniques, and mental approaches to improve your game. From understanding different types of shots to court positioning, communication, and tactical decision-making, this guide provides valuable insights from top players Jill Braverman and Scott Crandell. By focusing on these crucial aspects of the game, players can significantly enhance their performance and enjoyment of pickleball. Remember to practice these concepts regularly, communicate effectively with your partner, and always play to your strengths while working on your weaknesses.

Time Code List

1. 1:15 Different types of thirds
2. 4:50 The Drip/Hybrid 3rd
3. 9:20 How many shots should it take to get to the kitchen?
4. 11:30 Court positioning 101
5. 14:40 “Cheat” in pickleball by doing this one thing…
6. 15:30 Blood in the water
7. 17:18 Turn your body to watch your partner’s 3rds/5ths
8. 19:11 Get low, get still
9. 22:50 How to get GREAT at poaching
10. 25:44 Where should we aim our thirds?
11. 27:55 The six questions you and your partner need to ask each other
12. 30:30 Should you drop or drive?
13. 35:25 Know what you’re good at
14. 37:57 Where to aim when opponents are reversing the stack?
15. 40:47 What’s up next on TPB?

Pickleball Pros Serve Up Game-Changing Strategies for the Third and Fifth Shots

Jill Braverman and Scott Crandell Break Down the Crucial Moments That Can Make or Break Your Game

In the fast-paced world of pickleball, where split-second decisions can mean the difference between victory and defeat, mastering the third and fifth shots has become increasingly crucial. These pivotal moments in the game, often overlooked by casual players, are now taking center stage thanks to the insights of two pickleball powerhouses: Jill Braverman and Scott Crandell. In their latest podcast episode, these seasoned pros dive deep into the intricacies of these game-changing shots, offering a treasure trove of strategies that promise to elevate players' games across all skill levels.

Jill Braverman is a force to be reckoned with in the pickleball world. A top 25 ranked player, she has claimed 10 medals on the APP Tour and distinguished herself as an MLP MVP and Champion. Braverman's aggressive playing style and strategic acumen have made her a formidable opponent on the court and a sought-after voice in pickleball instruction.

Scott Crandell brings a wealth of experience to the table as a top senior pro and the coach of the Bay Area Breakers. His coaching prowess was recognized when he was named the 2023 MLP Coach of the Year. Crandell's analytical approach to the game, combined with his ability to break down complex strategies into digestible lessons, has made him an invaluable resource for players looking to improve their pickleball skills.

In their latest podcast episode, Braverman and Crandell tackle one of the most critical yet often misunderstood aspects of pickleball: the third and fifth shots. These shots, which occur during the transition from baseline to kitchen, can often determine the outcome of a rally or even an entire match.

The duo begins by breaking down the different types of third shots available to players: the traditional drop, the aggressive drive, and the less common but strategically valuable lob. However, it's their discussion of the "drip" shot – a hybrid between a drive and a drop – that really catches the attention. This innovative shot, executed at about 50-60% of a full drive's power, aims to catch opponents off-guard and create opportunities for the serving team to advance to the kitchen.

One of the most enlightening segments of the discussion revolves around the misconception that players should always aim to reach the kitchen line after their third shot. Braverman and Crandell emphasize the importance of patience and strategic shot selection, noting that it often takes multiple shots – a third, a fifth, and sometimes even a seventh – to safely and effectively reach the kitchen. This approach, they argue, allows players to maintain control and avoid rushing into vulnerable positions.

The hosts also delve into the crucial aspects of court positioning and communication. They stress the importance of being slightly ahead of one's partner during these transitional shots, allowing for better shot evaluation and quicker reactions. Moreover, they introduce the concept of "cheating" in pickleball – not in the sense of breaking rules, but in the strategic communication between partners about shot quality. This simple yet effective tactic can give teams a significant advantage in positioning and anticipation.

A particularly intriguing portion of the podcast focuses on the idea of "blood in the water" – the moment when a third or fifth shot bounces, signaling a prime opportunity to apply pressure. Braverman and Crandell emphasize the importance of recognizing these moments and capitalizing on them, turning defensive positions into offensive opportunities.

The discussion takes an interesting turn when the hosts address the art of poaching. They provide valuable insights into developing specific patterns with a partner and the importance of pre-planning poaching strategies. This level of coordination and communication, they argue, can lead to game-changing moments in competitive play.

One of the most practical segments of the podcast revolves around the six key questions partners should discuss before stepping onto the court. These questions, ranging from serve return strategies to dinking patterns, provide a comprehensive framework for developing a cohesive game plan.

Perhaps most importantly, Braverman and Crandell emphasize the significance of knowing and playing to one's strengths. They use the example of professional player Mari Humberg, known for her unorthodox but highly effective sliced approach shots, to illustrate how unconventional techniques can be incredibly successful when mastered and applied consistently.

As the podcast wraps up, the hosts touch on advanced strategies for dealing with stack reversals and hint at future episodes covering the fourth shot and the mental aspects of the game. Their discussion underscores the depth and complexity of pickleball strategy, reminding listeners that there's always more to learn and improve upon in this rapidly evolving sport.

In conclusion, Braverman and Crandell's insights offer a masterclass in pickleball strategy, focusing on the critical third and fifth shots. Their discussion not only provides practical tips for immediate implementation but also encourages players to think more deeply about their approach to the game. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, resources like this podcast are invaluable for players looking to elevate their game and gain a competitive edge. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, the strategies outlined in this episode promise to add new dimensions to your pickleball repertoire, potentially transforming your performance on the court.