The third shot drop is one of the most important and strategic shots in pickleball. It separates casual players from competitive ones and is a skill that every serious player must master. If you’re struggling to transition from the baseline to the net or getting attacked early in rallies, improving your third shot drop will completely change your game.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Why the third shot drop is crucial in pickleball
- How it controls the pace of the game
- Step-by-step techniques for executing a perfect drop shot
- Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Drills to sharpen your third shot drop
By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to use the third shot drop effectively and gain control at the net.
Why is the Third Shot Drop So Important?
The third shot in pickleball is the shot played by the serving team immediately after the return of serve. Since the returning team is already advancing to the net, the third shot determines whether you can take control of the kitchen or get stuck on defense.
✔️ Transitions from baseline to the net – Without a good third shot drop, you’ll be forced to stay back.
✔️ Neutralizes aggressive opponents – A soft, well-placed drop takes away their attacking advantage.
✔️ Forces a dink battle – When executed correctly, the third shot drop keeps your opponent from attacking.
✔️ Increases consistency and control – Instead of relying on power, it helps set up strategic points.
📌 Pro Tip: If you don’t master the third shot drop, you’ll spend most of your games stuck at the baseline, reacting to attacks instead of taking control.
How to Execute a Perfect Third Shot Drop
A great third shot drop requires touch, accuracy, and consistency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you execute this shot with precision.
1️⃣ Start with the Right Grip
- Use a continental grip (like holding a hammer) to allow for soft touch and control.
- A looser grip helps absorb power and prevent the ball from bouncing too high.
2️⃣ Use a Smooth, Low-to-High Swing
- Start low and follow through upwards to lift the ball gently over the net.
- The motion should be controlled and fluid—avoid chopping or flicking at the ball.
3️⃣ Aim for a Soft Arc into the Kitchen
- The ball should clear the net by a few inches, landing softly in the opponent’s kitchen.
- If it’s too high, they’ll attack—if it’s too low, it will hit the net.
📌 Pro Tip: Your goal is to make your opponent hit upwards, preventing them from attacking the shot.
4️⃣ Adjust for Height and Depth
- If your opponent is standing far back, drop it shorter.
- If they’re closer to the kitchen, aim for the deep part of the kitchen to keep them moving.
📌 Pro Tip: Vary your drop placements to keep your opponent guessing.
5️⃣ Move Forward Immediately After Hitting the Drop
- The third shot drop isn’t just about hitting the ball—it’s about advancing.
- Once you hit the shot, move forward toward the kitchen line to prepare for the next shot.
📌 Pro Tip: Players who hesitate after the third shot stay stuck at the baseline and lose control of the rally.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Even experienced players struggle with the third shot drop. Here are the most common mistakes and how to correct them:
❌ Hitting the Ball Too High
🚫 A high third shot drop gets smashed back at you.
✅ Fix it: Focus on soft touch, not power. Keep your paddle angle slightly closed to guide the ball downward.
❌ Not Following Through Properly
🚫 A short, flicky motion causes inconsistency.
✅ Fix it: Use a full low-to-high follow-through to control depth and accuracy.
❌ Standing Still After Hitting the Drop
🚫 If you don’t move forward, you’ll be stuck on defense.
✅ Fix it: Immediately advance to the net after hitting the shot.
❌ Using Too Much Wrist or Flicking
🚫 This leads to uncontrolled shots that pop up too high.
✅ Fix it: Keep the motion controlled and smooth, using your shoulder and arm instead of just the wrist.
Drills to Improve Your Third Shot Drop
Practicing regularly is the key to making your third shot drop consistent. Here are three drills to help you master this shot:
1️⃣ Target Drop Drill
- Set up cones or markers in the kitchen.
- Try to land your third shot drop in those targets consistently.
- Focus on arc and placement, not power.
2️⃣ Live Drop Drill
- Have a partner return serves and rush the net.
- Your goal is to hit a soft third shot drop, preventing them from attacking.
📌 Pro Tip: If they’re smashing your drop, focus on hitting it softer and lower.
3️⃣ Wall Control Drill
- Stand a few feet away from a wall.
- Hit soft third shot drops off the wall, trying to control depth and height.
📌 Pro Tip: This helps improve paddle control and touch for soft shots.
Final Thoughts
The third shot drop is a game-changer in pickleball. If you can consistently execute this shot, you’ll:
✔️ Control the pace of the game
✔️ Advance to the net instead of getting stuck at the baseline
✔️ Force your opponents into defensive positions
✔️ Win more points with smarter shot selection
Mastering this technique takes practice and patience, but once you get it down, you’ll be a much more strategic and dominant player on the court.
