5 Modern Third Shot Drops Every Pickleball Player Needs to Master

Main Points

• The traditional third shot drop is no longer enough to stay competitive.
• Five key drops every player should master:
  1. Lift/Push Drop – Used on short returns or fifth shots; focus on a locked wrist, leading with the hand, and stable footing.
  2. Topspin Drop – Adds pressure and margin with heavy topspin; use an eastern grip, drop the paddle head, and brush up on the ball.
  3. Slice Drop (Backspin) – Ideal for low or extended balls; use a closed stance, laid-back wrist, and 45° paddle angle to create spin and control.
  4. Drip or Hybrid Drop – A mix between a drive and topspin drop; target opponents’ feet with controlled swing speed (60–70% of a full drive).
  5. Shovel Drop – Reliable for deep or fast returns; hinge the wrist to lift the ball with the shoulder motion, ensuring consistency and margin.
• Each drop serves different tactical purposes—buying time, creating offensive chances, or transitioning to the net.
• Proper footwork, body positioning, and spin control are critical for consistency and pressure.

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Summary

This video focuses on how modern pickleball has evolved beyond the traditional soft third shot drop. Players who still rely solely on the classic drop risk being left behind as new, more dynamic options have become crucial to staying competitive. The lesson introduces five key third shot variations that add versatility, pressure, and consistency to your transition game.

The lift or push drop is designed for short or shallow returns and emphasizes control through a stable wrist, leading hand movement, and solid footing. This shot helps lift the ball smoothly over the net when the player is stretched forward or when using it as a fifth shot drop.

Next, the topspin drop introduces a more aggressive option that combines height, spin, and control. Using an eastern-style grip, players lower the paddle head and brush up on the back of the ball to create topspin. This motion provides added margin over the net and forces the ball to dip sharply toward the opponent’s feet, creating immediate pressure.

The slice drop, on the other hand, uses backspin to float and control the ball, making it perfect for lower contact points. With a closed stance and laid-back wrist, players can cut under the ball to create a skidding, dipping shot that’s harder to attack. It’s best used crosscourt due to its natural float and depth.

Then comes the drip or hybrid drop, a modern, aggressive blend between a drive and a drop shot. By hitting at about 60–70% of normal drive speed and brushing up slightly on contact, players can target the feet of opponents rushing forward, setting up shake-and-bake opportunities and keeping control of the point.

Finally, the shovel drop offers a high-percentage, consistent option when facing deep or fast returns. It relies on a wrist hinge and shoulder-driven lift rather than wrist flicking, helping players buy time and transition safely to the non-volley zone. Though it may invite opponents to attack, it keeps rallies alive and allows better positioning at the kitchen line.

Together, these five drops redefine how players approach the third shot. Mastering each one allows players to adapt to any return, maintain control under pressure, and stay ahead in today’s faster, more strategic game.

Source: Briones Pickleball Academy | YouTube

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Tags: 3rd Shot Drop | Briones Pickleball | Drip | Drop Shot | Lift | Shovel | Slice | Topspin