The Hardest Shot: Consistent Third Shot Drop Shot

NOTE: Who is Sarah Ansboury? – Sarah is the pickleball instructor at Pacific University in Oregon. Prior to that, Sarah was a professional tennis coach. As you watch her videos, you will understand that she is very skilled as both a player/athlete and instructor. Thank you Sarah for your pickleball videos!

Most pickleballers hear that the third shot drop shot is the mainstay of the 4.0-5.0 players and it is the key to being a consistent winner. Well, consistent is the word. If you are going to use the third shot drop shot, it takes a lot of practice to become consistent. Too soft a shot and it may go into the net. Too hard a shot and you may give your opponent a cream puff lob to put away. There is little room for error.

Sarah Ansboury shows us how she works to develop a consistent third shot drop shot. Watch the video and see if you can find some techniques to improve your game. To make it easier, she restricts this video to non-spin forehand drop shots.

 

Some key points (time stamps are approximate):

Let the opponent’s shot bounce and prepare to hit the ball as it starts to descend off of the bounce. This is her recommended strike zone. (3:05 – 3:40)

Push or “bowl” the ball using the paddle. No big backswing; guide the ball while keeping the arm straight. (3:41-4:28)

Step forward with the non dominant foot to keep the motion forward when hitting the ball. This improves accuracy and puts your momentum toward the net. (4:30 – 5:35)

Demonstration starting at (6:20 – 7:25)

On the move dropping shots from the baseline to the non-volley zone. (7:25 – 9:30)

 

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