Learning Mari Humberg's INSANE Backhand Flick

NOTE: This educational tutorial is featured on Pickleball.com.

 

Mastering the Backhand Flick in Pickleball

An In-Depth Guide with Pro Insights from Mari Humberg and Ed Ju

The backhand flick is a dynamic shot in pickleball that can catch opponents off-guard and shift the momentum of a game. In a recent instructional session, pickleball content creator Ed Ju collaborated with professional player Mari Humberg to dissect this technique. Humberg, renowned for her exceptional backhand flicks, shared her expertise to help players enhance their skills.

1. Understanding the Grip [0:54]

• Grip Type: Utilize the continental grip, also known as the handshake grip.

• Hand Position: Ensure a firm yet relaxed hold to allow for wrist flexibility.

• Finger Placement: Position your index finger slightly extended on the paddle handle for better control.

Mari emphasizes, "I recommend the continental grip or the handshake grip." Pickleball

2. Analyzing the Flick Technique [1:48]

• Wrist Action: Employ a quick upward flick of the wrist to generate topspin.

• Paddle Angle: Maintain a slightly open paddle face during contact.

• Follow-Through: Finish the stroke with the paddle pointing towards the target area.

Mari notes, "You’ve got to hit the ball up, and the spin will bring it back down." Pickleball

3. Prioritizing Control Over Power [5:22]

• Shot Pace: Focus on a controlled, slower shot rather than sheer power.

• Spin Application: Apply topspin to make the ball dip quickly after crossing the net.

• Placement Strategy: Aim for areas that challenge your opponent's positioning.

"The misconception is that people want to hit hard, but you don’t have to hit a flick hard," Mari advises. Pickleball

4. Demonstrating the Flick [8:27]

• Stance: Adopt a balanced position with feet shoulder-width apart.

• Preparation: Anticipate the ball's trajectory and prepare your paddle early.

• Execution: Perform the flick with a swift wrist motion, ensuring minimal arm movement.

Mari demonstrates that effective flicks are "just well-placed, well-timed, and well thought out." Pickleball

5. Executing the Ultra-Wide Cross-Court Flick [11:24]

• Target Identification: Identify open spaces on the opposite side of the court.

• Angle Creation: Use your wrist to create sharp angles, sending the ball cross-court.

• Deception: Maintain a consistent stance to disguise your intended target.

This technique places the ball in "positions that are uncomfortable" for opponents. Pickleball

6. Disguising and Choosing Targets [14:00]

• Body Language: Keep your body orientation neutral to conceal shot direction.

• Eye Focus: Avoid telegraphing your target by maintaining steady eye contact.

• Target Zones: Aim for opponents' hips or feet to limit their return options.

Mari suggests, "Aim your flick at your opponent’s right or left hip to achieve the desired result." Pickleball

7. Practicing the Ultra-Wide Cross-Court Flick [15:49]

• Drill Setup: Practice with a partner, aiming for cross-court targets.

• Consistency: Focus on repeating the motion to build muscle memory.

• Feedback: Record your practice sessions to analyze form and accuracy.

Ed's practice emphasizes the importance of "less power, more control and dip." Pickleball.com

8. Determining When to Use the Flick [17:24]

• Opponent's Position: Utilize the flick when opponents are out of position or expecting a different shot.

• Game Context: Employ during rallies to disrupt rhythm and create openings.

• Setup Shots: Use the flick to set up subsequent offensive opportunities.

"The intention of an attack is to set up for the second," Mari explains. Pickleball

9. Understanding the Objective of the Flick [20:00]

• Creating Advantage: Use the flick to force weak returns or defensive lobs.

• Applying Pressure: Keep opponents guessing and under constant pressure.

• Strategic Play: Integrate the flick into your overall game strategy for effective point construction.

Mari emphasizes, "Get the idea out of your head that the flick is a winner." Pickleball

Incorporating the backhand flick into your pickleball repertoire can significantly enhance your gameplay. By focusing on control, placement, and strategic execution, as highlighted by Mari Humberg and Ed Ju, players can develop a shot that is both deceptive and effective. Remember, the flick is a tool to create opportunities and apply pressure, setting up subsequent plays rather than aiming for outright winners.

Time Stamps:

1. 0:54 Mari Breaks Down the Grip
2. 1:48 Mari Analyzes Ed's Flick
3. 5:22 Slower/Lower is better
4. 8:27 Mari Demonstrates her flick
5. 11:24 Ultra Wide Cross Court Flick
6. 14:00 Disguising and Choosing Targets
7. 15:49 Ed Tries the Ultra Wide Cross Court Flick
8. 17:24 When To Use This Shot
9. 20:00 What's the Objective?

NOTE: ChatGPT (AI Bot) was instructed to use the YouTube transcript through this link. It also integrated the Pickleball.com article into this guide without being told to do so.