We’ve all been there—stuck at the kitchen line while a banger blasts shot after shot, leaving us scrambling just to keep the ball in play. It’s frustrating, overwhelming, and can feel impossible to counter.
But don’t worry—if you’re an intermediate player struggling to reset or counterattack against hard hitters, these tips will help you take back control, neutralize their power, and start winning more rallies.
3 Key Tips to Beat a Banger
1. Stay Calm and Controlled
Bangers thrive on chaos and panic, so the first step is to stay calm—easier said than done, right? But the more you resist the urge to swing wildly, the better you’ll handle their power. Focus on compact, controlled movements instead of big, risky swings.
Why it works: Staying calm keeps your timing and accuracy in check, preventing rushed shots and errors. Plus, bangers often rely on your overreactions to create opportunities.
2. Keep Them Back
Bangers want to charge the net where they can overpower you with fast volleys. Don’t let them. Keep them pinned to the baseline by hitting deep, low shots that force them to stay back.
Pro Tip: Aim for their feet or the corners to make it harder for them to advance. The more time they spend backpedaling, the less time they spend attacking.
Why it works: Bangers lose momentum when they can’t move forward, forcing them to play defensively instead of dictating the point.
3. Use Short, Compact Swings
Big, dramatic swings might feel satisfying, but they’re exactly what bangers want—they’re easier to disrupt and harder to time. Instead, use short, compact swings with a firm wrist to block or redirect their shots.
Pro Tip: Think of it as “borrowing” their power rather than trying to match it. Your goal is to absorb their speed and send it back with control.
Why it works: Compact swings reduce errors, keep you balanced, and make it easier to reset quickly for the next shot.
Watch our friend and pickleball coach Will East put these tips into action:
More Practical Tips to Shut Down a Banger
4. Let High Balls Fly—Don’t Bail Them Out
Bangers often hit hard drives that are heading out of bounds, and your job is to let them go. Watch their positioning—if they hit from low to high or are leaning forward, there’s a good chance the ball is sailing long. Resist the urge to swing and give yourself free points.
Why it works: Forcing bangers to hit safe, controlled shots takes away their biggest weapon—power.
5. Target Their Backhand
Most bangers rely heavily on their forehand for speed and power. Their backhand? Not so much. Hit to their weaker side as often as possible to slow them down and force errors.
Pro Tip: Cross-court shots to the backhand can expose gaps and keep them off balance.
Why it works: Targeting their weaker side neutralizes their power and shifts the advantage back to you.
6. Work on Your Soft Game
One of the best ways to beat a banger is to slow the game down. Practice dinks, drops, and resets that force them to play softer shots instead of blasting the ball.
Pro Tip: Drill soft shots regularly so you feel comfortable using them under pressure.
Why it works: Bangers struggle when the game slows down—they’re forced out of their power game and into finesse, where they’re often less skilled.
7. Master the Counter-Attack
If a banger gives you a higher, slower drive, don’t just block it—attack it. Use their momentum against them by hitting sharp, controlled shots to open spaces or their feet.
Why it works: Counter-attacks force bangers onto the defensive, giving you a chance to take control of the rally.
8. Move Your Feet—Stay Balanced and Ready
Don’t get caught flat-footed. Keep your feet moving and your paddle up so you’re always ready for the next shot. Good positioning gives you more time to react and reduces errors.
Pro Tip: After every shot, reset to your ready position with knees slightly bent and paddle up.
Why it works: Quick feet keep you balanced, making it easier to absorb fast shots and recover quickly.
9. Practice Against Bangers
The best way to improve against bangers is to face them regularly. Ask friends to drill hard drives so you can practice blocking, resetting, and counter-attacking under pressure.
Why it works: Repetition builds confidence and muscle memory, so you’re prepared when the pressure’s on during a match.
What Can Beginners Do Against Bangers?
If you’re a beginner and bangers are blasting you off the court—you’ve got options. Here’s how to start leveling the playing field:
- Play Defense First: Focus on keeping the ball in play rather than trying to win the point right away. Block hard shots and aim to reset the rally instead of trying to overpower them.
- Step Back When Needed: Give yourself more time by stepping a few feet behind the kitchen line when bangers are driving shots at you. This extra space helps you react faster and keep the ball low.
- Practice High, Deep Returns: Hit high, deep returns to push bangers back to the baseline. This takes away their ability to smash shots from closer to the net and buys you time to reset.
No More Fear of Bangers!
Bangers might seem intimidating at first, but they’re far from unbeatable. By staying calm, focusing on placement, and using smart strategies like targeting their backhand and keeping them back, you’ll turn the tables in no time.
And remember—pickleball isn’t just about power; it’s about control, finesse, and outsmarting your opponent. So the next time you face a banger, don’t panic. Stay cool, stay sharp, and show them who’s boss!
