Unlocking the Secrets of Doubles Pickleball Strategy
So, you’ve jumped into the world of pickleball, and it’s clear you’re as hooked as I am. After hitting the courts a few times, you’re ready to elevate your game with some effective doubles pickleball strategy. Great choice! This article is just what you need to learn the ropes of playing doubles in pickleball.
If you’re diving into doubles strategy, chances are you’ve already mastered a few basic shots, such as the serve and ball driving. Now, I’ll guide you on combining these skills with sound strategies that can enhance your gameplay almost instantly.
A common misconception among many beginners and even some intermediate players is that the issues they face stem solely from lacking shot-making skills. In truth, many challenges arise from not effectively applying basic doubles strategies. This article aims to introduce you to key concepts and tactics to help you play smarter, achieve more wins, and sharpen your play without having to significantly improve your individual shot-making ability.
Always remember, the strategies discussed here are fundamental to pickleball. Your approach may evolve as you grow as a player, taking into account your skills, your partner’s abilities, and the opponent’s style. However, these foundational strategies will remain consistent no matter how your game advances. They’ll act as the building blocks for your continued improvement.
The Game Plan for the Serving Team
Let’s kick things off by discussing the serving team’s strategies. Two vital rules will guide our approach: 1) move to the net quickly, and 2) take high-percentage shots.
Strategy #1: Advance to the Net
To begin, let’s break down how the typical rally starts in a doubles pickleball match. The serving team’s players start out at the back, as they must let the ball bounce before playing it. This waiting time allows the receiving team to quickly take control of the net, giving them an advantage.
Why is having the net considered a significant advantage? Picture the following rally: The serving team tries to execute their third shot with a high bounce, allowing their opponents at the net to slam the ball back at them. This aggressive return keeps the serving team at bay. The situation becomes difficult when the opposing team continuously fires powerful shots. Winning the point is much harder for the serving team at this point.
Now, consider a second scenario where the serving team successfully rushes to the net following their third shot. This strategic move puts them in a position of control, which can lead to scoring opportunities.
Statistics play a crucial role in understanding the significance of advancing to the net. According to pickleball analyst Joe Baker, higher-level players grasp this strategy and push towards the net as soon as they get a chance. You should strive to do the same!
Looking back at our two rally examples, the difference lies in the strategy behind the third shot. In the first case, the serving team hit a pop-up, allowing the opposing players at the net to control the ball. In contrast, the second team executed a third shot that landed softly in the Non-Volley Zone—known as “The Kitchen.” This forced the net players to wait for the bounce, giving the serving team the opportunity they needed.
How to Get to the Net
One unique aspect of pickleball is the Non-Volley Zone or The Kitchen. Players cannot step into this region to play an incoming ball unless it has already bounced there. This rule is beneficial for the serving team, as they can strategically use it to reach the net.
If the serving team can deliver a gentle third shot that lands in The Kitchen, the opponents must let it bounce first. This rule prompts the opponents to hit a softer return, allowing the serving team to move forward without immediate pressure.
This tactic is called the Third Shot Drop. It is a shot taken after the serve is returned, designed to land softly in the opponent’s Kitchen. The intent is to disrupt the opponents’ attack and buy time for your team to advance up the court, regaining control.
While the Third Shot Drop is crucial, it’s not the only way to make your way to the net. If the opponent’s return is short and high, you can opt for a firm drive instead. This aggressive play can either catch them off guard for a quick win or set up an easier drop shot for a smoother approach to the net.
For additional insights on when to drop and when to drive your shot, check out my other articles.
The Next Steps After Reaching the Net
Once you and your partner have made it to the net, it’s time for the dinking phase of the game.
So, what is dinking? Dinking involves both teams standing at The Kitchen line, exchanging soft shots over the net that land in the Kitchen. The goal of dinking is to frustrate the opponents and to create opportunities for your team to attack.
Being at the net and dinking can be advantageous for the offensive team. The strategy here is to focus on unattackable dinks and patiently wait for the right time to strike. It’s perfectly fine to play a few dinks in a row to set up your shot. If your opponents try to attack a well-placed dink, they may either hit it straight into the net or pop it up, giving you a prime opportunity to capitalize.
For those interested in advanced dinking techniques, be sure to explore my article on Advanced Doubles Pickleball Dinking Strategy.
Strategy #2: Focus on High-Percentage Shots
For players at beginner and intermediate levels, the focus should be on optimizing high-percentage shots and biding your time for the right moment to attack. A significant number of points at these levels result from unforced errors due to reckless shot choices. By committing to high-percentage shots, you can force your opponents into mistakes and rack up points with ease.
By adopting a game plan that revolves around controlling the net, you’ll see a noticeable increase in your and your partner’s winning matches. Be sure to discuss these strategies with your playing partner, so you can work together seamlessly to dominate the net.
In doubles pickleball, teamwork and smart strategies can make a vast difference in your performance. With this foundation in place, you’re now equipped to elevate your game and have even more fun while playing. Get out there and put these strategies into action—you’ve got this!
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