The drop is dead?

Paul from Pickleball Daily
July 21, 2025

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The Third Shot Drop is DEAD with Pro Jill Braverman by The Pickleball Clinic

This video, featuring professional pickleball player Jill Braverman, challenges conventional wisdom by declaring "The Third Shot Drop is DEAD!"

It focuses on correcting common mistakes players make when driving the ball.

The video emphasizes that the drive, combined with a "drip" (a softer, controlled drive), represents the future of third and fifth shots in pickleball.

Jill highlights three major mistakes: hitting the drive too fast, not getting to the fifth shot drive quickly enough, and insufficient shoulder turn on the drive.

For hitting too fast, she advises slowing down the drive and aiming for the top of the net tape with a controlled swing.

To address the issue of not reaching the fifth shot quickly, the video introduces the "drip" as a preferred alternative to a drop shot, encouraging quick movement after the third shot drive.

Finally, for insufficient shoulder turn, Jill emphasizes making a bigger shoulder turn to generate more power and torque, resulting in consistently low and effective drives.

Key Points:

The Drive is Key: The drive, especially with a "drip," is presented as the future of third and fifth shots.
Avoid Hitting Too Fast: Slow down your drive for better control and court positioning.
Quick Fifth Shot Transition: Move quickly to the fifth shot drive, using a "drip" if needed.
Proper Shoulder Turn: Ensure a bigger shoulder turn for more power and consistent low drives.
Goal of the Drive: The ultimate goal is to create an easy fifth shot, not necessarily to win the point immediately.

Watch the full tutorial here.