Pickleball
Deep Crosscourt Return Targets
Return crosscourt with depth to deny an easy third shot
10 min
5 x 12 returns, alternating deuce/ad side
Beginner
Demonstration video coming soon
Instructions
- 1Stand a foot behind the baseline in a ready athletic stance.
- 2Take a small backswing and step into the ball, driving it deep crosscourt.
- 3Aim past the opponent's baseline third-shot target zone.
- 4Sprint to the kitchen line immediately after every return.
What to focus on
Early paddle preparation on the split step, not after the ball bounces.
Common mistake
Standing flat after the return instead of closing to the kitchen.