In pickleball, the third shot is the rally’s turning point—it determines whether you’ll seize control or remain on the defensive. Among the third shot options, the pickleball third shot drive is a powerful tool when used strategically.
For players striving to reach the 3.5+ skill level, understanding when and how to execute this shot isn’t just important—it’s essential. But remember, it’s not about blindly smashing the ball; it’s about recognizing the right moments to unleash the drive and using it to your advantage.
Best Time to Use the Third Shot Drive
The illustration below shows a third shot drive used on a short return of serve to keep the server returner back.
The third shot drive is most effective in these scenarios:
1. Short Return of Serve
When your opponent’s return of serve is short, you almost always want to drive the ball. Not taking advantage of this situation is like forgetting your umbrella on a rainy day—an avoidable mistake.
Here’s why:
- Opponent Movement: After returning the serve, your opponent is likely still moving toward the kitchen line. If their return is short, it’s often because they hit from deep in the court after a strong serve. Driving the ball keeps them back and disrupts their momentum.
- Force a Mistake: A fast, low drive at their feet is hard to handle, especially when they’re on the move. Expect a pop-up or an error.
- Take Control: A strong drive can push your opponent into a defensive position, giving you the opportunity to advance to the net and take control of the rally.
2. Your Opponent Doesn’t Advance
If the returner hesitates or fails to move forward after their return, that’s your cue to drive the ball. This often happens when they’re caught deep after a strong serve. A well-placed drive will keep them stuck at the baseline, making it easier for you to move in and dominate the point.
Additional Situations for the Third Shot Drive
While a short return is the prime opportunity, there are other situations where a drive is a smart play:
1. Driving Against Opponents at the Kitchen Line
Even if both opponents have reached the kitchen, a drive can still be effective:
- Mixing It Up: Alternate between drives and drops to keep your opponents guessing.
- Exploiting Openings: Aim for the sideline, an open spot, or drive up the middle to create confusion. Watching opponents clash paddles over a middle drive is always satisfying.
- Exploiting Weakness: If you notice one opponent isn’t handling your drives very well and dropping them into the net or popping them up, drive more at them. You are taking advantage of a weakness, but this will only make them better at handling drives.
- Be Ready to Defend: Anticipate a volley or block and be prepared to respond.
2. Shake & Bake
If you hit a strong, low drive just clearing the net (the Shake) and you and your partner move in looking for a put away (the Bake) off a popped-up response, this is the Shake & Bake play. It’s a power play and you and your partner should be on the same page when executing this.
How to Execute a Third Shot Drive
Executing a third shot drive effectively requires precision and awareness:
- Hit Low and Fast: Keep the ball on a flat trajectory just over the net, targeting your opponents’ feet if they are back.
- Capitalize on Momentum: Opponents moving forward are more likely to mishit or send the ball out.
- Advance When Possible: If your drive puts them on the defensive, use it as an opportunity to move to the net and take control.
Summary
To advance your pickleball game to the 3.5+ level, mastering the third shot drive is non-negotiable. Here’s what to remember:
- Prime Opportunity: Use the drive on a short return of serve, targeting your opponent’s feet as they move toward the kitchen.
- Recognize Mistakes: Capitalize when opponents freeze or fail to advance.
- Stay Versatile: Mix in third shot drops to keep opponents off balance.
- Move In: Follow up a good drive by advancing to the net, and look for Shake & Bake opportunities when you force a weak return.
Pro Tip: While the third shot drive is a fantastic tool, as you progress, the third shot drop will become your go-to shot against skilled opponents who can handle drives with ease.
With practice, you’ll develop the ability to read the court and know when the third shot drive is the right choice. So, next time you see a short return, don’t hesitate—drive it like you mean it!
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Keep Learning:
- Watch the Ben Johns video 🎥 below on the Pickleball Drive Shot.
- Read the post on how to hit a Drive Shot.
- Read the post on the Shake and Bake play.
- Read the next post in this series on the third shot: Mastering the Pickleball Overhead Smash – Key Tips and Strategies
🎥Video on the Pickleball Drive Shot
Courtesy of Ben Johns and Lifetime Pickleball
Watch this video on the Pickleball Drive Shot on Youtube.