Third-Shot-Drop

The Critical Role of the Third Shot Drop in Pickleball

The third shot drop is arguably the most vital shot in pickleball, as it represents the server's first real opportunity to transition from the baseline to the desirable Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) line (often called the kitchen line).

Why the Third Shot Drop is so Important

When the serving team hits a soft, arching drop shot that lands in or very near the opponent's NVZ, they achieve a crucial advantage:

• Net Position: It allows the serving team, who started at the baseline, to move forward to the NVZ line. This forward position is essential for controlling the rally.

• Forcing a Dink: A successful drop shot forces the receiving team to hit their return from below the height of the net, usually resulting in a soft return (a dink). This initiates a dinking battle, which is the most strategic phase of pickleball and gives you the best chance to eventually attack a high ball.

If the third shot is a poor drop (too high or too deep), the opponents can easily counter-attack, forcing the serving team to remain at the baseline and attempt a second, controlled drop on the fifth shot.

Opponent Responses to a Good Drop

The primary goal of a third shot drop is to neutralize the opponent's attack. When executed well (from anywhere on the court), you can expect one of five main returns from your opponent:

1. Opponent Dinks Back: If it's a good dink, you should dink back. If it's a weak dink, you have an opportunity to speed up or attack.

2. Opponent Lifts the Ball: A lift is a high return, which you should immediately smash hard for a potential winner.

3. Opponent Misses: A miss (into the net or out of bounds) results in a point for your team.

4. Opponent Lobs: You must quickly retreat to handle the lob, possibly lobbing back to reset the point.

5. Opponent Speeds Up: You need to be ready to quickly execute a defensive block or punch volley.

The overarching strategy is to be patient and wait for the best opportunity to take a winning shot.

Is the Drop Shot Always the Answer?

No. The third shot drop is a key tool, but not the only one. However, if you find yourself hitting hard without success—especially if you're giving the opponents balls that are above the net height—it's highly beneficial to practice dropping your returns repeatedly.

By breaking the habit of attacking prematurely, you'll develop the court awareness to know when to drop, when to attack, when to spin, or when to lob.