Five years ago, the third shot drop was the gold standard in high-level pickleball. But the game has evolved and pickleball players who don’t also have a fast, dipping drive are leaving major gaps in their strategy.
Here are five essential tips to level up your pickleball third shot drive — plus, walk through game-like scenarios where this shot shines.
1. Get to the ball early
Early preparation can be one of the biggest difference-makers in your pickleball drive. Too many players serve, stand flat-footed, and then scramble when the return comes back.
Instead, stay on your toes with active feet. Prioritize getting to the ball early, and you’ll be in position to hit a stronger, more accurate drive.
2. Master your weight transfer
Whether you have an open or closed stance, the principle of weight transfer is the same: Load up on your paddle-side foot (right foot for right-handed players) and use it as your anchor.
The key is to transfer your weight forward through contact, not backward. Avoid hitting off your back foot or with your chest leaning upward. A clean weight shift generates both power and timing.
3. Create proper spacing
Without good spacing, drives fall apart. Players often jam themselves by hitting too close to their body, which leads to unforced errors.
Use your non-paddle arm as a guide to measure distance and keep the ball out in front. As a rule of thumb:
- In a closed stance, strike the ball in line with your front knee.
- In an open stance, make contact in front of your body.
Remembering these tips will ensure your momentum pushes forward, not sideways.
4. Use wrist lag for power
Good pickleball players have one thing in common: Wrist lag.
By laying your wrist back and slightly rotating your thumb to close the paddle face, you create a “whip” effect through contact. This combination of firmness and looseness adds both power and spin to your drive.
5. Focus on forward momentum
One of the biggest mistakes players make is relying on rotational momentum in their pickleball game, swinging their body sideways. That reduces accuracy and consistency.
Instead, keep your swing short, whippy, and directed forward. Allow your follow-through to finish naturally, but make sure all of your energy moves through the ball in a straight line.
When to drive: Game-like scenarios
Hitting a great pickleball third shot drive is only half the battle. Knowing when to use it is just as important. Here are a few key scenarios:
- Deep returns to your forehand: Most players prefer to drive forehands. A deep ball to this side is a perfect setup.
- Balls that sit up high: If a return bounces high in midcourt, shorten your swing and whip through with topspin.
- When pushed back: If the return pins you deep, a drive can buy you time and set up an easier drop.
Strategies to pair with the drive
- The drive-drop combo: Don’t get stuck hitting drive after drive. Remember: The goal is to reach the kitchen line. Use the drive-drop strategy: Hit one drive, then follow with a drop. This gives you and your partner time to move up and control the point.
- The shake and bake (drive and crash): For advanced players, try the “shake and bake”: One player drives, while the partner crashes the net looking to poach. Communication is key here — call “Go!” so your partner knows to move. Aim your drive low and dipping to set them up for the winning shot.
The third shot drive is no longer optional — it’s essential. By focusing on early preparation, weight transfer, spacing, wrist lag, and forward momentum, you’ll transform your drives from inconsistent to dangerous. A smart player doesn’t pre-decide whether to drop or drive. They read the ball, adapt, and choose the shot that creates the best advantage.