The third shot in pickleball is arguably the most important shot of the rally. It sets the tone for the point and determines whether you’ll gain control or stay on the defensive. Among third shot options, the pickleball third shot drive is a powerful weapon when used effectively.
For players striving to reach the 3.5 skill level and beyond, understanding when and how to execute a third shot drive is essential. It’s not just about hitting the ball hard—it’s about recognizing the right opportunities and using the shot strategically.
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 back at them. Not driving the ball on a short return of serve can be a big, missed opportunity.
Here’s why:
- Opponent Movement: After returning the serve, your opponent is moving forward toward the kitchen line but hasn’t reached it yet. In many cases, the reason their return is short is because they hit the shot from deep in the court off a good serve. They have a lot of distance to cover from deep in the court. You can keep them back by driving the third shot at them.
- Force a Mistake: A fast, low drive at their feet is tough to handle, especially if they’re still in motion. They’re likely to pop it up or hit it long because of their forward momentum.
- Take Control: By driving the ball, you force them into a defensive position. You then advance to the net giving you control of the point.
2. Your Opponent Doesn’t Advance
If you notice the serve returner freezing or failing to advance to the kitchen line, always capitalize on this mistake and drive it at them to take control of the net. They may freeze because they returned a deep serve and are far away from the net. They don’t believe they can advance quickly enough and stay back.
Additional Situations for the Third Shot Drive
While the short return of serve is the ideal situation for a third shot drive, there are other times when it’s a good option:
1. Driving Against Opponents at the Kitchen Line
Even if the return isn’t short and both opponents are at the net, a drive can still be effective:
- Mixing It Up: Driving instead of dropping the ball keeps your opponents guessing.
- Exploiting Openings: Target a sideline or drive into any open spot. Driving up the middle forces opponents to decide who will cover the shot. This happens quickly and many times players paddles will collide as they both try to play the middle drive.
- Defensive Preparation: Be ready to defend their volley or block if they return the drive.
2. Shake & Bake Opportunity
If your drive is low and forces a weak return or pop-up, move in aggressively. This sets up the Shake & Bake play, where you or your partner can put away the next shot.
How to Execute a Third Shot Drive
- Hit Low and Fast: Aim for a flat trajectory just over the net, targeting your opponents’ feet if they are back.
- Watch for Momentum: Opponents moving forward are more likely to mishit or send the ball out of bounds.
- Advance When Possible: If your drive puts them on the defensive, use it as an opportunity to move to the net.
Summary
To advance to the 3.5 skill level in pickleball, mastering the third shot drive is crucial. Here’s what you need to remember:
- Ideal Situation: Use the drive on a short return of serve, targeting your opponent’s feet while they’re moving towards the kitchen. Always drive back at an opponent who doesn’t advance at all after they return the serve.
- Stay Versatile: Mix it up with third shot drops to keep opponents off balance.
- Move In: Always move in if you have kept your opponent back with the drive. A good drive can also set you up for a Shake & Bake if you move in quickly.
The third shot drop will become your go to third shot as you advance and play against skilled opponents.
As you gain experience, you’ll develop the ability to read the court and decide when the third shot drive is a good option.