Pickleball instruction: Understanding what type of third shot to hit, and when
Last Edited
Dec 03 2025
Category
Instruction
If you’ve ever felt like the third shot in pickleball is a mysterious rite of passage, you’re not alone. Many players stumble their way through the progression, discovering what works (and what really doesn’t) through trial, error and maybe a few smashed lobs.
Let’s break it down, and maybe laugh a little, while we figure out where you are on your pickleball third-shot journey.
The drive/drip shot - smack it like you mean it
Ah, the third-shot drive. It’s powerful, satisfying and feels oh-so-right when you nail it. With a good forehand drive, you feel unstoppable. Tennis players especially love this shot — it’s like muscle memory with a pickleball twist.
But here’s the catch: as fun as it is to whack the ball with all your might, advanced opponents at the kitchen line will block it like pros at Wimbledon, especially if you are hitting it from deep in the court. So, while your inner Hulk loves the power, it’s not always the smartest move against savvy players.
Fun Fact: A perfectly placed drive is the equivalent of yelling, “Catch me if you can!” Unfortunately, your opponents usually can.
The third-shot lob - lofty aspirations
For many, the lob shot becomes the next “aha!” moment. You realize, “If I can’t hit past them, I’ll hit over them!” This works great, until it doesn’t. Skilled opponents will smash those lobs back faster than you can say “third shot.”
Lobs can be a sneaky surprise against weaker players, but when overused, they scream desperation. Use sparingly.
The third-shot drop – the ultimate glow-up
The third-shot drop is where things get real. You’ve seen it. You’ve tried it. You’ve cursed it. Let’s face it, mastering this shot can feel like trying to thread a needle with oven mitts on. But when it works, it’s pure poetry.
Drop shots may not look flashy, but they’re the secret sauce to advancing in pickleball. They neutralize your opponents at the net, turning their smug aggression into confused defense. And trust me, there’s nothing better than watching an opponent scramble to dig up your perfectly placed drop.
Some encouragement: Your drop shots don’t need to be perfect. If they land soft and low, you’re doing it right. Even a bad drop shot can force backhand reaching volleys that can be difficult to execute.
Some will say the drop shot is old news and that with new paddle technology it isn’t as effective as it once was. The truth is, the third shot drop isn’t dying; it’s just evolving. Today’s top players don’t live or die by the drop alone. They make a choice, whether to drop, drive, or drip, depending on the depth, pace and spin of the return. It’s not about always using one shot; it’s about reading the situation and pulling the right tool from the toolbox.
Where are you on the third-shot ladder?
- Still Driving? That’s OK for now, but it’s time to start dabbling in the drop shot.
-Lobbing? Nice effort, but let’s move past it unless you’re moonlighting as a volleyball setter.
- Frustrated with drops? Stick with it! Drops are your ticket to 3.5+ glory.
Summary
The third shot progression is a journey of self-discovery (and humility). While the drive and lob have their moments, the third-shot drop is the golden ticket to competitive play.
Payton Bond is a pickleball enthusiast and author who focuses on strategy and helping players better understand the game. This article is adapted from his book, Pickleball Strategy – A Guide to 3.5 and Beyond, available on Amazon
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