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Strategy masterclass with #5 ranked pro Tyra Black

Strategy masterclass with #5 ranked pro Tyra Black

Paul from Pickleball Daily
September 26, 2025

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Tip of the day

On-Court Masterclass with World #5 Tyra Black by ThatPickleballGuy

This video features an on-court masterclass with professional pickleball player Hurricane Tyra Black, currently ranked as the number five women's doubles player.

Coach Kyle Koszuta asks her rapid-fire questions about various aspects of her game, including lobs, hand speed, resets, and speed-ups.

Tyra explains her decision-making process for changing court position, distinguishing when to move forward, backward, or stay put based on ball height and opponent's actions.

She shares her strategy for hitting lobs from mid-court, using them to reset the point and give herself and her partner more time.

Tyra also discusses her preference for a central paddle starting position to react quicker to either side and the importance of a compact swing for hands battles.

The video demonstrates an "O drill" that focuses on defensive court positioning, split-stepping, and paddle position after popping up a ball.

She emphasizes that a speed-up is often a setup for a later point, not an immediate winner, and that patience is crucial.

Tyra also reveals that she leans in more than most female players and takes balls out of the air to hold the line and surprise opponents.

Key Points:

Court Positioning: Adjust your position based on ball height and opponent's actions.
The Lob: Use lobs from mid-court to reset points and buy time.
Compact Swings: Maintain a compact swing for faster hands and quicker reactions.
Patience: Use speed-ups as setups, not immediate winners, and work the point.
Aggressive Play: Lean in and take balls out of the air to pressure opponents.

Watch the full tutorial here.

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