When it comes to pickleball, Ben Johns’s backhand roll is one of the deadliest and most effective shots in the game. It’s deceptive, packed with topspin, and allows him to attack even from below net level. But what makes his backhand roll so special?
Let’s break down exactly how Ben Johns executes his signature shot—and more importantly, how you can learn it too.
Why Ben Johns’s Backhand Roll Is Different
Most players rely on simple volleys or soft resets from their backhand side. But Ben’s backhand roll is an offensive weapon, allowing him to turn defensive situations into attacks.
Here’s what sets his shot apart:
✅ Deception – His setup looks identical to a backhand dink, making it hard for opponents to predict.
✅ Topspin – His unique mechanics generate heavy spin, causing the ball to dip quickly.
✅ Control & Placement – He can place the shot exactly where he wants—often at his opponent’s hip for maximum difficulty.
✅ Attack from Low Contact Points – Unlike most backhand attacks, Ben can execute this shot even when the ball is below net height.
Take a look for yourself:
Now, let’s break down how you can develop this elite shot step by step.
1. The Setup: Looks Just Like a Dink
Ben’s backhand roll is so effective because it starts out looking like a simple dink volley.
- His paddle positioning and body posture mirror a regular backhand dink, keeping his opponent guessing.
- This means opponents don’t see the attack coming until it’s too late.
🔹 Pro Tip: Work on making your backhand dink and backhand roll look identical until the last moment. This forces opponents to react late, giving you an advantage.
2. The Key Mechanics of the Backhand Roll
Ben doesn’t just flick his wrist and hope for the best. His backhand roll follows specific mechanics that generate spin, speed, and control.
A. Paddle Angle & Swing Path
✅ Closed Paddle Face: His paddle is slightly tilted forward, ensuring topspin.
✅ Low to High Swing Path: He starts low and finishes high, brushing up the back of the ball.
✅ “Motorcycle Throttle” Wrist Position: He maintains a stable wrist bent slightly forward, much like turning a motorcycle throttle.
🔹 Common Mistake: Many players mistakenly roll their wrist over too much, leading to inconsistent shots. Instead, keep the wrist stable and focus on forearm movement.
B. Generating Power & Spin
Ben’s backhand roll isn’t just about arm motion—it involves his entire body.
✅ Legs & Core Drive the Shot: He bends his knees and uses an upward push to generate power.
✅ Forearm Rotation (Not Just Wrist): His power comes from extending his forearm, not snapping his wrist.
✅ Contact Point in Front: He makes contact well in front of his body, allowing him to brush up on the ball for spin.
🔹 Drill Tip: Practice hitting from a low-to-high motion using your legs for power instead of just swinging with your arm.
Watch Ben Johns break it down in this video tutorial:
3. When & Where to Use the Backhand Roll
Ben uses his backhand roll strategically, rather than forcing it every time.
Best Times to Use It:
🎯 When opponents give a slightly high dink – This is your green light to attack.
🎯 Against players who camp at the net – The topspin makes it hard for them to volley cleanly.
🎯 From the left side of the court – This allows him to attack down the line against a right-handed opponent’s awkward hip area.
Where to Aim:
- Opponent’s Right Hip (for Right-Handers): This is the hardest spot to defend.
- Down the Line: Opponents expect cross-court dinks, so down-the-line shots catch them off guard.
At Their Feet: The topspin makes the ball dip quickly, forcing difficult low returns.
4. How to Practice Ben Johns’s Backhand Roll
Now that you know how it works, here’s how to train your own backhand roll step by step.
A. Partner Drill – Cross-Court Feeds
- Have a partner feed you dinks cross-court to your backhand.
- Focus on hitting the ball out of the air instead of letting it bounce.
- Emphasize the low-to-high motion with a closed paddle face.
🔹 Key Focus: Keeping the motion compact and smooth—no wild wrist flicking!
B. Wall Drill – Topspin Reps
- Stand a few feet from a wall and hit backhand rolls repeatedly, aiming for consistency.
- Work on brushing up the ball while keeping your paddle angle stable.
🔹 Goal: Develop muscle memory so that the roll feels natural and effortless.
C. Disguise Drill – Dink & Roll Variation
- Start by hitting regular backhand dinks.
- Randomly mix in a backhand roll without changing your setup.
- Have your partner call out which shot they think you’re hitting.
🔹 Why This Works: If your opponent can’t tell the difference, you’re doing it right!
5. Advanced Variation: The Backhand Flick
Ben also has a more aggressive take on the roll—the backhand flick. (Check out our guide on the backhand roll vs. flick!)
🔹 Key Differences:
- More wrist action than the roll.
- Used when the ball is higher, making it a true attack shot.
- Elbow snap adds extra power, especially on quick exchanges at the net.
🎯 When to Use the Flick:
- When an opponent pops up a ball near shoulder height.
- In fast exchanges where you need quick power.
- To surprise an opponent expecting a dink.
Once again, here’s the man himself showing you how it’s done:
*Be sure to check out our step-by-step guide on mastering Ben Johns’ shovel drop as well!
Adding the Backhand Roll to Your Game
Ben Johns’s backhand roll is not just a flashy shot—it’s a game-changing tool that gives him more attacking options while keeping opponents guessing.
To make it work for you:
✔ Master the fundamentals – Closed paddle, low-to-high swing, stable wrist.
✔ Drill for disguise – Make it look just like a dink to keep opponents off balance.
✔ Use it wisely – Attack at the right times, not on every shot.
Your Challenge:
Next time you’re drilling, spend 10 minutes focusing on your backhand roll. The more reps you get in, the faster this shot will become a natural part of your game.
And remember—even the best players in the world had to start somewhere. So keep practicing, stay patient, and soon you’ll be hitting backhand rolls just like Ben Johns!
