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Lessons from the best pros
Paul from Pickleball Daily
November 19, 2025
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Tip of the day
This video compiles the most impactful tips and strategies from conversations with some of the top professional pickleball players and coaches.
The main defensive strategy for the non-volley zone line is to recognize that you can no longer stand static.
With modern paddles, opponents can speed up the ball from almost anywhere, making it crucial to be ready for the counter.
Players should take a step back if they hit a slightly high dink, and they should retreat slightly if the ball is hit above chest height to better defend.
The proper ready position involves keeping the paddle out in front of the body in a neutral position to allow for quick turns to either side.
To defend against speed-ups, keep your arms loose and use a short, compact punch or counter-swing rather than big power swings.
On the serve, the objective is to make your third shot easier by focusing on hitting the serve into the last three to five feet of the court.
For advanced strategy, the third shot drive and the fifth shot drop should be thought of as a single, continuous move to maintain an aggressive posture.
When playing a lefty/righty team, avoid the middle and target the outside wide areas to find backhands.
Key Points:
When defending the kitchen, move off the line (take a step back) if you hit a high dink, as the days of standing static are over.
Use a short, compact punch or counter-swing to defend speed-ups at the net.
The most important objective of the serve is depth (the last 3-5 feet) to push opponents back.
The third-shot drive and fifth-shot drop should be viewed as one connected offensive move.
When playing a lefty/righty, target the outside wide areas instead of the middle.
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Deal of the day
Meme of the day
So tired 🤣
That’s it for today! As always, thank you for reading. 🙏
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Happy pickling,
Paul