I planned to share again some tips about creating topspin for those who are new to it, as well as talk about how to counteract topspin as a receiver. I looked for a slow-motion video that would show the stroke motion. The video I found wasn't what I'd searched for, but I believe it's worth sharing, since it puts into question some of what I've been led to believe was going on with the topspin stroke.

Ian Westermann, head pro at EssentialTennis.com, says although it may appear that the tennis greats rotate their racquets over the top of the ball when imparting spin, that's actually a myth, and the slo-mo video seems to corroborate his point. Of course, tennis and pickleball aren't the same, but some of the basics translate between the sports, and I think this stroke may also. While the strings of the racquet and the fuzz of a tennis ball will have more traction that a relatively smooth pickleball and smooth paddle, I feel his point may apply in pickleball as well. 

Westermann's video and the comments below lead me to believe that the tennis pros brush up the back (right side) or top back of the ball, but they do not continue over the top with their stroke. Westermann's video shows that only those strokes where the ball is hit off-center end up with the racquet turning over: the physics of an off-center hit cause the racquet to turn. 

So is it the same in pickleball? Is the ball really in contact with the paddle long enough to make the "over-the-top" swing necessary, or would a normal follow through in that direction be sufficient to create spin? I welcome your comments.

As for returning shots with topspin: the best strategy is to wait longer to hit the ball. Having more time to assess where the ball will be gives you an edge that you lose if you hit the ball too soon. Topspin causes the ball to bounce lower than usual, so be prepared to get down under it and then lift up while hitting the ball. If you can wait until the ball is at the apex of its rise before hitting it, you'll have the best chance for a good return.

In my last tip, I explained why you want to rush to the non-volley-zone (NVZ) line: you are able to cover the court with far less movement. Other reasons are the additional power afforded to hard shots by the shorter distance, being able to target spots close to the net with more accuracy and ease, and the quick response time needed by your opponents to return your net volleys. (Of course, you need good reflexes to hit theirs, too.)

If you are serving, your team is at a disadvantage from the start. One of your opponents is already at the NVZ line, and the opponent receiving your serve will likely hit a long, relatively slow return shot that will provide enough time for them to rush to the net. You can't do anything about that, because you and your partner must remain in the back court to let the ball bounce (because of the "double-bounce" rule). 

Assuming your opponent returns the ball deep to center court, your best shot would be one that will give your team time to rush the net safely. Most players and coaches recommend you make a drop shot (some call this a dink) just over the net into the NVZ. This is a tough shot, as those who deliver the ball too far back in the court or into the net will tell you. This is considered the best shot, however, because 1) your opponents are already at the net, or they're on the way; 2) it is slower and softer, and because it drops in the NVZ, your opponents must let the ball bounce, allowing you time to get to your NVZ; and 3) it has a higher percentage of success than a hard shot against opponents who are ready to volley the ball back.

Discuss this tactic ahead of time, so your partner will know when to move with you. If your shot goes too deep, and you can't get to the NVZ in time, you and your partner must STOP and assume the ready position the moment your opponent hits the ball. Make sure your feet are shoulder-width apart and your paddle points toward the ball. You won't be in a good position, but you'll be ready to make the best of whatever comes your way.