also presents an opportunity to transform defense into neutral play or even regain control .
How to Neutralize a Point and Advance to the Kitchen
A common scenario in pickleball occurs when the returning team has already made it to the kitchen line . The serving team , still at mid-court , is at a disadvantage because their opponents are closer to the net . The serving team ’ s goal in this situation is to neutralize their opponents ’ advantage and advance to the kitchen line themselves .
In this situation , you have three main options :
1 . Drop the ball softly into the kitchen , making it hard for your opponents to attack and buying time for your team to advance toward the kitchen .
2 . Return a hard , low shot over the net , making it difficult for your opponents to attack .
3 . Lob the ball over their heads in an attempt to make them return toward the baseline .
Higher-level players often rely on the drop shot when on defense , as it neutralizes the point and creates an opportunity to advance toward the kitchen . If your opponents have a higher ball at the kitchen , think of a seesaw : they ’ re likely going to hit down at your feet . This is when you transform into a libero — a volleyball player whose sole job is to control hard-hit balls and set them back into play .
Here ’ s how to turn into a volleyball libero and hit drop shots off hard-hit balls at your feet : Stay Low and Grounded . Adopt an athletic stance : knees bent , torso slightly forward , and weight balanced just ahead of your toes . Staying low allows you to better handle low shots aimed at your feet . Don ’ t Swing — Lift . Avoid swinging at hard drives . Instead , lift the ball with a smooth , controlled motion . Think of a volleyball libero gently setting the ball for a teammate . Your paddle should stay slightly open ( angled 45 – 60 degrees ) to guide the ball softly into the kitchen or over the net . Control Your Grip . Maintain a firm but smooth grip . This allows you to absorb the ball ’ s energy and redirect it . You need touch and feel for this shot . Make Contact in Front and Adjust for Height . Your contact point should be slightly in front of your body . For low balls , keep the paddle more open ; for higher shots , adjust to a more neutral angle .
By staying grounded , balanced , and purposeful , you can turn your opponents ’ aggression into an opportunity to advance toward the kitchen and neutralize their advantage .
When Plans Go Awry : Recovering with Clarity
As Robert Burns wrote and John Steinbeck used as his central theme in “ Of Mice and Men ,” “ The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry .” In other words , even the most carefully planned strategies often go astray . On the pickleball court , your well-thought-out plan may unravel when your opponent adapts or your execution falters . The natural reaction is frustration or panic , but neither will help you recover .
How to Refocus : 1 . Take a Mental Reset . After a mistake or failed strategy , take a moment to breathe and refocus . Remind yourself that mistakes are part of the game and don ’ t define the outcome . Focus on your strengths , your opponent ’ s weaknesses , and any patterns you ’ ve observed . Stay positive and smile — you ’ re playing pickleball , after all ! Calmness is contagious , and pickleball is meant to be fun . 2 . Return to the Fundamentals . Simplify your approach . Focus on the basics : balance , footwork , and consistent high-percentage shots . 3 . Stay Adaptable . View an opponent ’ s adjustments as an opportunity to learn . Trust your ability to adapt and play within the moment .
The Energy of Stillness
In the book “ Of Mice and Men ,” Lenny ’ s tense mind and tight grip crushed the mouse in his hand — a metaphor for what happens when fear and anxiety take over . By contrast , George ’ s calmness and strategic thinking enabled him to navigate challenges . On the pickleball court , don ’ t be like Lenny , letting tension and overexertion crush your play . Instead , be like George : calm , calculated , and focused on executing your strategy as a team player .
Pickleball reminds us of this balance beautifully . Just as a pickle comes from a cucumber , transforming through care and time , we must strive to remain as “ cool as a cucumber ” on the court . After all , nobody wants to become a “ salty pickler .” Stay calm , crisp , and fresh with every shot ! •
Kyle McMakin is a touring pickleball professional , former Division I tennis player ( UC Davis ) and head pro for LevelUp Pickleball Camps . Kyle is a two-time Triple Crown winner . His DUPR is above 6.0 in both singles and doubles .
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2025 | MAGAZINE 35