Third Shot Tactics: Drive, Drop, Drip or Lob?
In pickleball, few moments are as critical as the third shot. It’s your first opportunity as the serving team to take control, neutralize the return, and set yourself up for a successful point.
While the traditional 3rd shot drop has long been considered the gold standard, modern pickleball players have more tools in their toolkit. Let’s explore four third shot options you should have at your disposal—and how to practice them with purpose.
🎯 1. The Traditional 3rd Shot Drop
Once viewed as the most essential shot in pickleball, the third shot drop is designed to softly arc the ball into your opponent’s kitchen (non-volley zone).
✅ Goal: Give you and your partner time to advance to the NVZ.
✅ When to Use: When you need time and want to neutralize a strong return.
✅ Challenge: Requires precision and touch—especially against aggressive returners.
🚀 2. The Drive
The third shot drive is becoming increasingly common at all levels because… well, it’s easier.
✅ Goal: Hit a low, fast shot that challenges your opponents’ reaction time.
✅ When to Use: Against players who struggle with pace or lack quick hands.
⚠️ Watch Out: Higher-level opponents often absorb or counter hard drives effectively, so don’t rely on this exclusively.
💧 3. The Drip
The drip is the hybrid hero you didn’t know you needed. Played at about 60% power, it’s part drive, part drop—dipping just over the net with deceptive speed. Use a drip when you have SPACE.
✅ Goal: Force indecision—opponents won’t know whether to volley or let it bounce.
✅ When to Use: To catch opponents in awkward positioning or disrupt rhythm.
💡 Bonus: Often causes pop-ups when executed well.
🎈 4. The Lob
Yes, a lob on the third shot. While unconventional, it can be a strategic surprise.
✅ Goal: Push opponents off the NVZ and send them scrambling backward.
✅ When to Use: Sparingly, as a surprise weapon.
⚠️ Pro Tip: Only works if well-disguised and placed deep.
🛠️ Practice Tips for Third Shot Mastery
- Drill With Intention: Don’t just hit the same shot over and over. Rotate between drops, drives, drips, and lobs to become more adaptable.
- Use Rally Scoring: In group play, let one team serve the entire game to maximize third shot reps.
- Study Your Opponents: Pay attention to which third shot gives them the most trouble—not just which one feels best for you.
- Work From the Feet Up: Good footwork and spacing are key to executing any third shot option effectively.
🧠 Final Thought: Adaptability Is Power
The best players aren’t locked into one third shot—they read the situation and adapt. As you grow your skills, aim to master all four so you can respond to different returns, court positions, and player styles with confidence.