How to Master the Ben Johns Dink for Better Control and Faster Hands

Main Points

• This video breaks down the difference between a neutral (dead) dink and a more aggressive, spin-based dink.
• The key adjustment is paddle angle: paddle head up versus paddle head down.
• Keeping the paddle head above the wrist creates controlled backspin without chopping the ball.
• The technique applies to both backhand and forehand dinks.
• Shot selection matters: use the spin dink when the ball is in your strike zone, and revert to a neutral dink on low balls.
• Proper knee bend and positioning are essential to maintain the correct paddle angle.
• A simple ready-position habit used by Ben Johns dramatically improves reaction speed at the net.
• Resetting to a consistent ready position after every dink or volley leads to faster hands and better defense.

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Summary

This video focuses on transforming the backhand dink from a neutral, predictable shot into a true offensive tool. Many players are taught to hit dinks with the paddle head down, producing a dead ball that is easy for opponents to manage. This video explains why that approach limits your effectiveness and how a simple wrist and paddle-angle change can immediately add pressure to your dink game.

The core concept is keeping the paddle head above the wrist and using a smooth carving motion through the ball. This creates controlled backspin without chopping or forcing the shot. The result is a dink that stays lower, moves more unpredictably, and makes opponents uncomfortable at the kitchen. The video emphasizes that this is not a replacement for the neutral dink, but an addition to your toolbox when the ball is at the right height and position.

The same principles apply on the forehand side, making this a complete net-game upgrade rather than a single-shot fix. Equally important is knowing when not to use it. On low balls or when mobility is limited, the neutral dink remains the correct choice. Smart decision-making is what separates consistency from unnecessary errors.

The video finishes with a simple but powerful habit that improves fast hands at the net. By returning the paddle to a strong ready position after every dink or volley, reaction time improves dramatically. This small adjustment, when drilled consistently, helps players handle speed-ups more effectively and stay balanced during fast exchanges. Combined with the improved dink technique, these changes can noticeably raise the level of your soft game and net presence.

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Tags: Backhand Dink | Dink | Drill | Forehand Dink | Still Got Game | Volley