Third Shot Cheat Code

The #1 post-serve move for a better third...

Author

Shea Underwood
December 31, 2025

This newsletter is sponsored by Selkirk

Week 66

Welcome back to the Road to Pro Newsletter!

Here is one valuable pickleball tip to put into practice this week…

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How to Set Up for the Optimal Third Shot

One of the most common (and easiest to fix) mistakes I see in players 4.0 and below is what happens right after they serve. They serve the ball, then immediately take a step or two inside the court. And when the return comes back deep, they are caught scrambling backward.

If you have the tendency to do this, you’ll find it puts you out of position to hit a good third shot, which means you won’t be able to get to the net, or you’ll just miss the shot altogether.

The incredibly simple fix is to take a step back directly after you’ve followed through on your serve. Your goal is to create space so that a deep return lands in front of you when you’re already balanced and ready. Your third shot will be so much more controlled and effective, which means you’ll be able to approach the kitchen sooner.

It’s so much easier to run forward on a short return than it is to be reeling backward on a deep one. So, start making it automatic to take a step back and get balanced after your serve. If you’re intentional about the way you start each point, you’re well on your way to becoming a much better player overall.

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