When you have the opportunity to strike an overhead, hopefully you hit a quality overhead that is not returnable by your opponents. However, you should always anticipate a return shot by your opponents just in case in the pickleball comes back.

After you strike an overhead, quickly evaluate your shot and get ready for your opponents to return your overhead. Do not stand in place and assume you won the point. If you hit a quality overhead, (1) aggressively close the gap and get to the Non-Volley Zone or Kitchen Line; (2) get in Pickleball Ready; and (3) perform a split step. If you hit a weak overhead, consider playing more neutral or defensive pickleball in order to earn your right back in to the Non-Volley Zone or Kitchen Line by stopping short of the Non-Volley Zone or Kitchen Line and staying in the Transition Area. By preparing for your opponents to return the pickleball, you will put pressure on your opponents to make a quality return and you will be more prepared for the next shot.

Key Takeaways:

1. If you hit a quality overhead, move in to the Non-Volley Zone or Kitchen Line and prepare for the next shot.

2. If you hit a weak overhead, consider staying back in the Transition Area and prepare for the next shot.