Choose a third-shot drop or drive from ball quality and opponent position, then evaluate the decision separately from execution.
Instructional video
3rd Shot Drop or DRIVE? Pick the Best Pickleball Shot For The Scenario
By PlayPickleball.com
A tactical guide to choosing drop or drive from balance, ball height and pace, and opponent position—not from a preset rule.
Equipment
- Pickleball paddles
- Pickleballs
- Pickleball court
- Ball basket
- Optional kitchen target markers
Setup
One player starts at the baseline. A feeder at the opposite baseline varies return depth, height, and direction. A second evaluator stands at the non-volley line.
How to run it
1. The feeder sends a realistic return.
2. Before contact, the baseline player calls “drop” or “drive.”
3. Play the third ball and a live fourth ball.
4. Award one decision point when the choice fits the player’s balance, contact height, and opponent position; award a separate execution point for the intended outcome.
5. Rotate every eight balls. Progress by removing the verbal call while keeping the post-ball review.
Coach Dave’s cues
Drop when the ball is low or opponents are established. Drive when the ball is higher, the hitter is balanced, or pace can create a useful fifth shot. Read the actual return instead of forcing a preselected answer.
Video focus: Use the decision ladder—Am I balanced? Is the ball high, low, fast, or slow? Are the opponents established at the non-volley line? What choice gives my team the best next ball? Score decision quality separately from execution quality.
Watch for
Automatically dropping every ball, driving while stretched or below the net, aiming for a winner instead of the next opportunity, or judging the choice only by whether the rally was won.