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Don't make this backhand mistake
Paul from Pickleball Daily
January 06, 2026
Tip of the day
The Briones Pickleball Academy provides a technical breakdown of the backhand roll, a essential shot for creating offensive opportunities from the kitchen line.
Proper execution begins with a strong foundation, requiring players to prioritize knee bend over bending at the waist for better reach and stability.
Maintaining a wide stance—broader than shoulder-width—ensures you remain balanced when reaching for balls at various heights and angles.
The mechanics of the swing should rely on the shoulder as a hinge, rotating from a low to high position rather than snapping from the elbow.
Leading with the hand rather than the tip of the paddle helps keep the motion connected and produces consistent topspin.
Timing your contact point is the primary way to control direction, with earlier contact for cross-court shots and later contact for down-the-line placement.
Slowing down the paddle swing is often more effective than high-speed snapping because it emphasizes accurate location over raw power.
Effective rolls should target the opponent’s dominant shoulder or hip, commonly known as the "chicken wing" area, to force a difficult return.
Key Points:
Use a deep knee bend to maintain balance and extend your reach at the kitchen line.
Pivot from the shoulder to create a smooth upward motion that generates natural topspin.
Target the opponent's "chicken wing" or dominant-side hip to provoke a weak or popped-up response.
Adjust your contact timing to switch between cross-court and down-the-line targets.
Lead the swing with your hand to stay connected and avoid the inconsistencies of an elbow-driven snap.
Deal of the day
Meme of the day
Exposure therapy 🤣
That’s it for today! As always, thank you for reading. 🙏
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Happy pickling,
Paul