Main Points
- Winning points starts with consistently reaching the kitchen line using smart third shot selection.
- The slice drop is best used when stretched wide or reaching, especially when aiming crosscourt with a defensive or neutral mindset.
- The push drop is the most repeatable and reliable option when the ball is in front and you are balanced behind it.
- The roll drop is ideal when pushed deeper toward or behind the baseline, using topspin to add net clearance and bring the ball down safely.
- The hybrid (drip) is a more aggressive topspin shot used when opponents are late getting to the kitchen, targeting their feet.
- The drive should be used as a setup tool, not a winner attempt, especially when opponents are already established at the kitchen line.
- Strong third shot decisions help create easier fifth shots and improve point construction overall.
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Summary
This video explains how choosing the correct third shot dramatically improves your ability to reach the kitchen line and control points. Instead of relying on a single drop shot, players should develop multiple third shot options and understand when each one is most effective. The focus is on using the right shot based on court positioning, opponent positioning, and ball height rather than forcing a single technique every time.
The slice drop is presented as a strong defensive or neutral option, especially when pulled wide or reaching outside the body. Because of the natural across-the-body swing path, it is especially useful for crosscourt placement. The push drop is highlighted as the most repeatable and simple third shot, working best when players are balanced and able to contact the ball in front of their body. This makes it a high-percentage choice when opponents are already set at the kitchen line.
When pushed deeper toward the baseline, the roll drop becomes valuable. The added topspin allows players to give the ball more height to clear the net while still bringing it down into a safe landing zone. The hybrid shot adds an offensive element, blending a drive and drop with heavy topspin. This shot works best when opponents are caught transitioning and vulnerable around their feet. Finally, the drive is reframed as a setup shot rather than a finishing shot, designed to force a weaker volley and create an easier fifth shot opportunity.
Overall, this video reinforces that successful third shots are about positioning, patience, and percentage decision-making. Players who learn to select the correct third shot based on the situation will reach the kitchen line more consistently and put themselves in better positions to win points.
Source: John Cincola Pickleball | YouTube
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Tags: 3rd Shot Drive | 3rd Shot Drop | Hybrid Drop | John Cincola Pickleball | Push Drop | Roll Drop | Slice Drop | Third Shot