If you’ve ever shared a confused glance with your partner after a return of serve, wondering who’s supposed to take the third shot—you’re not alone. The moment happens fast, and if you both hesitate (or both go for it), those precious seconds can cost you the rally. A lot of teams at the recreational and even intermediate level run into this issue. But there’s a straightforward fix that can eliminate the doubt and help you keep the point moving with confidence.
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In this post, you’ll learn a simple yet effective pickleball third shot strategy that takes the guesswork out of who should hit it. Once you and your partner are on the same page, you’ll be more consistent, more connected, and a whole lot less stressed.
What Is the Third Shot in Pickleball?
First, a quick recap: The third shot in pickleball is the shot taken by the serving team right after the return of serve. It’s typically either a drop shot or a drive intended to set your team up at the net—or at least keep you in control of the rally.
But the problem is, especially when you’re playing doubles, there’s often confusion about who should take that all-important shot. Does your partner go for it because it’s on their side? Do you take it because you’re stronger from the baseline? That moment of uncertainty can lead to errors—either no one goes for the ball, or both of you do and you end up colliding (yes, I’ve seen it happen).
The Key: Decide Before the Game Begins
The best way to eliminate third-shot confusion is to make that decision before the game even starts. Talk to your partner and agree on a strategy like: “The person on the left always takes the third shot unless it clearly lands on the right.” This removes ambiguity and keeps you both in sync.
I often say, “The best pickleball teams aren’t just the best hitters—they’re the most organized.” You don’t need to be a pro to put a basic structure in place. Even a one-sentence agreement can make a huge difference.
Here are a few approaches you can try:
1. Left-side Dominant Strategy
Let the player on the left take the third shot—especially if they’re right-handed. This puts their forehand in the middle (covering more ground with more control). Many pros and advanced rec players use this setup for that very reason.
2. Skill-Based Preference
If one of you has a more consistent third-shot drop or drive, make them the default third-shot person. Then, as a team, support that choice positionally—give them space to set up and execute the shot, and be ready to follow it up.
3. “Mine Unless You Call It”
Another approach is to decide that one player takes it unless the other calls them off. This requires good communication, but it works well for pairs who’ve developed some on-court chemistry.
Whatever strategy you choose, the key is consistency. Use the same approach every game unless there’s a compelling reason to switch (like playing with a new partner or facing a specific opponent tactic).
Why This One Decision Matters So Much
You might be thinking, “Come on, does this one shot really matter that much?” Yes—it does. Momentum in pickleball can shift fast. That third shot often determines whether you get to the net or stay stuck back, whether you control the tempo or give up the advantage.
I can’t tell you how many rallies I’ve seen start falling apart because two teammates didn’t know who was hitting the third shot. One stood up short while the other hung back, or they both backed off thinking the other had it. These moments aren’t just about mechanics—they’re about trust and clarity. And the good news? They’re easily fixable.
“A lot of players get stuck here—but there’s a simple fix,” Tony likes to say. That fix is deciding ahead of time and sticking to the plan. No more silent assumptions or mid-rally guesswork.
Practice the Third Shot as a Team
Once you choose your strategy, make sure to practice it. Don’t just hit a bunch of drops in drills—practice hitting the third shot with your partner in motion. Practice who covers the middle, how the non-hitter can move forward safely, and what happens if the return is short or deep.
This kind of team practice can turn you from two solo players into a true doubles team. That’s when you’ll really start to feel confident and in control.
What If My Partner’s Not On Board?
Now, you might be thinking, “This all sounds great—but what if I play with different partners who don’t think about this stuff?” Totally fair. Not everyone has a regular partner or practices regularly.
In that case, take the lead early: say something before the first serve. You don’t have to give a speech—just something like, “Let’s have one of us take the third shot consistently—do you want to be the default or should I?” Most players will appreciate your communication—and you’ll look like someone who knows what they’re doing.
Final Thoughts:
The third shot in pickleball doesn’t have to be a source of confusion. With one clear agreement between you and your partner, you can shift from hesitation to harmony—and start more rallies on the right foot.
If you want to see this strategy in action, check out our video on the Better Pickleball YouTube channel. I walk through the exact steps and give real examples of how to make this work on the court.
Ready to take your game to the next level? Explore the Better Pickleball Academy for more in-depth guidance, or grab one of our free guides to keep building your skills one smart step at a time.
Link to full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7d3Aiig5uo
CJ Johnson
Hey there — I’m a professional three-sport athlete and coach who has spent my entire adult life earning a living from playing and coaching sports. Since I started coaching more than three decades ago, one thing has remained the same: My commitment to see students not as they are but as what they can become and to move heaven and earth to help them realize their untapped potential. You should know that when it comes to helping pickleball players over 50 live their best lives on and off the courts, I'm an expert. Good pickleball is not just technique; it's the mind and body working holistically. That's why I'm also a personal trainer and weight management specialist. When I’m chillin', you'll find me watching Star Trek with my husband John and our two fur babies, Shirley and Ralph. (Yes, Happy Days)